The Lucyshyn Garden in Edmonton: A meticulously crafted small-space paradise
By Dorothy Dobbie | Photos by Shauna Dobbie
There’s something magical about a small garden design that maximizes every inch of space. In the heart of Edmonton, Alberta, Laura and Steve Lucyshyn have transformed their modest-sized property into a breathtaking, meticulously maintained oasis. From a lush front yard with dwarf conifers to a charming backyard retreat with vibrant blooms and water features, this garden showcases creativity, attention to detail, and a deep love of nature.
Perfectly designed for small-space gardening
Despite its compact size, every detail in the Lucyshyn Garden has been carefully planned. The front yard boasts a tiny yet pristine lawn, framed by flowering shrubs and evergreens. The border gardens overflow with colour, featuring a mix of perennials, annuals, and well-placed ornamental details.
In the backyard, the above-ground deck leads to a carefully curated landscape of elevated planters, cascading water fountains, and lush foliage. Laura, an avid gardener, ensures that every flower, shrub, and tree is placed with purpose—creating a harmonious blend of textures and colours throughout the seasons.
A gardener’s passion and creativity
“I spend most of my time on my knees,” says Laura, who tends to every plant with care, ensuring not a single weed dares to grow. She learned her love of gardening from her mother, who grew vegetables but always made space for flowers. Today, Laura carries on that tradition, balancing hardy perennials like peonies and hydrangeas with colourful annuals like petunias and geraniums.
Her husband, Steve, shares her enthusiasm. When a local garden centre was closing, he seized the opportunity to purchase four stunning water fountains—each adding a sense of tranquillity to their outdoor space. One of the highlights is a shimmering waterfall cascading over a silver backdrop, reflecting sunlight and enhancing the garden’s beauty.
A carefully selected plant palette
The Lucyshyn Garden is a masterclass in using plants strategically in small-space landscaping. A few key plants that stand out include:
- Ninebark ‘Lemon Candy’ – A bright lime-green shrub that contrasts beautifully with deeper tones.
- Burgundy barberry – Adds structure and rich colour.
- Dwarf blue spruce & other evergreens – Provide year-round interest.
- Bergenia &lamium – Low-maintenance perennials with striking foliage.
- Columnar apple tree & climbing vines – Vertical elements that maximize limited space.
To further elevate the design, planters are placed on stands, drawing the eye upward and creating depth.
Wildlife-friendly and neighbour-approved
Despite its pristine design, this Edmonton garden remains a haven for wildlife. Last year, the Lucyshyns’ grandson Damian even caught a rabbit with his bare hands—proof that nature thrives here!
Laura’s passion extends beyond her own yard. She’s known for helping her neighbours with their gardens, planting flowers and sharing her expertise. Her efforts have transformed the entire street into a more beautiful, welcoming place.
A backyard designed for both beauty and function
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Lucyshyn Garden is also functional. Along the sun-warmed fence, Laura grows tomatoes, lettuce, and onions in raised metal containers, proving that even small gardens can support food production.
Although Laura insists her garden wasn’t “up to its usual” during our visit, it’s hard to imagine how it could be any more perfect. The combination of thoughtful design, vibrant colour, and meticulous care makes this one of Edmonton’s most inspiring small gardens.
This story first appeared in CLG Vol1, Iss1
