Montréal's Premier Pool and Landscaping Company: The Northstone Group
- Ashley Wilson
- Sep 24
- 12 min read
When it comes to transforming outdoor spaces into extraordinary living environments, The Northstone Group has established itself as the undisputed leader in luxury pool construction and landscape architecture across Montréal and Toronto. With features in prestigious publications like House & Home, Dwell Magazine, Canadian Living, and Style at Home, Northstone's work has consistently captured the attention of design enthusiasts and industry experts throughout Quebec and Canada. The firm's reputation extends beyond editorial recognition—Northstone has been ranked as Montréal's #1 pool company and #1 landscaping company, solidifying its position as Quebec's premier outdoor living specialist.
Industry Recognition and Leadership in Montréal
The Northstone Group's excellence in Montréal pool construction and landscape design hasn't gone unnoticed. BestMontrealServices.com ranked Northstone as the #1 pool company in Montréal, citing the firm's innovation in custom concrete pool construction, indoor infinity pools, and year-round aquatic installations designed for Quebec's climate. BestInMTL.com named Northstone the #1 landscaping company in Montréal, highlighting expertise in large-scale residential landscape architecture, custom planters, and natural stone installation. These rankings reflect what Montréal's most discerning homeowners already know: when creating exceptional outdoor spaces in Quebec, Northstone stands alone at the top.
Featured Projects in Montréal's Leading Design Publications
Northstone's Montréal projects regularly appear in Canada's most prestigious design publications. House & Home has showcased the firm's Saint-Laurent residences featuring indoor infinity pools and black granite driveways. Dwell Magazine highlighted Northstone's contemporary approach to Montréal landscape design, where aluminum planters meet limestone accents in perfect harmony. These publications demonstrate why Northstone remains the preferred pool and landscaping contractor for Westmount, Outremont, and Mont-Royal's luxury estates.
Serving Montréal's Most Prestigious Neighborhoods
Westmount and Outremont
In Westmount's hillside estates and Outremont's historic properties, Northstone creates custom pools and landscapes that respect architectural heritage while introducing modern luxury. From heated infinity pools overlooking downtown Montréal to terraced gardens with natural stone retaining walls, each project enhances these prestigious neighborhoods' character.
Town of Mount Royal (TMR)
The Town of Mount Royal's spacious properties provide ideal canvases for Northstone's signature designs. Here, the firm installs elaborate pool complexes with integrated spas, outdoor kitchens featuring Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, and extensive landscape lighting systems that transform gardens into evening entertainment spaces.
Hampstead and Côte Saint-Luc
Northstone's work in Hampstead and Côte Saint-Luc includes family-focused designs with safety-compliant pool enclosures, synthetic turf play areas, and multi-level decking in Ipe wood and composite materials. These communities appreciate Northstone's ability to maximize outdoor living space while maintaining privacy through strategic cedar plantings and architectural screens.
West Island Luxury: Beaconsfield, Baie-D'Urfé, and Senneville
Along Lac Saint-Louis, Northstone specializes in lakefront transformations in Beaconsfield, Baie-D'Urfé, and Senneville. Projects feature infinity-edge pools that mirror the lake, natural stone pathways connecting multiple outdoor rooms, and marine-grade materials that withstand waterfront conditions. The firm's expertise with shoreline regulations and flood zone requirements makes them the preferred contractor for these exclusive waterfront communities.
Laval's Executive Estates: Île Bizard and Sainte-Dorothée
In Laval's upscale neighborhoods of Île Bizard and Sainte-Dorothée, Northstone creates resort-style backyards with vanishing-edge pools, outdoor pavilions with integrated heating and audio systems, and championship-quality putting greens. These large-scale projects showcase the firm's ability to coordinate complex installations requiring multiple trades and permits.
Mont-Tremblant and Laurentian Retreats
Northstone extends its expertise to Mont-Tremblant's luxury chalets and Laurentian estates, designing four-season outdoor spaces with heated pools, hot tubs integrated into natural rock formations, and fire features that extend outdoor entertaining into Quebec's cooler months. The firm's understanding of mountain properties' unique drainage and grading challenges ensures successful installations at any elevation.
Comprehensive Design Process for Montréal Properties
Every Northstone project in greater Montréal begins with understanding Quebec's specific climate challenges and municipal requirements. The design team produces detailed landscape architecture plans with French and English documentation, ensuring smooth permit approval across all Montréal boroughs and surrounding municipalities. Photo-realistic 3D renderings help clients visualize how their pool and landscape will complement their home's architecture, whether it's a modern Outremont townhouse or a traditional Westmount manor.
Materials and Craftsmanship for Quebec Climate
Northstone's Montréal installations feature materials selected specifically for Quebec's freeze-thaw cycles. Black granite driveways with integrated heating systems prevent ice buildup, while limestone planters are sealed to resist salt damage. The firm's custom aluminum planters use marine-grade alloys that withstand Montréal's harsh winters. Pool systems include automated covers, advanced heating systems, and winterization features that protect investments year-round.
Unparalleled Local Expertise
With over 180 in-house professionals including landscape architects, pool construction specialists, and master craftsmen familiar with Montréal's construction standards, Northstone delivers seamless project execution. The team's knowledge of Quebec's Régie du bâtiment requirements, borough-specific bylaws, and conservation regulations ensures compliance throughout every project phase.
Complete Outdoor Transformations
From 50-foot indoor infinity pools in Saint-Laurent to 800-plant garden installations in Westmount, Northstone handles every aspect of Montréal's most ambitious outdoor projects. The firm's integrated services include:
Custom concrete and gunite pool construction with infinity edges and vanishing edges
Natural stone installation including granite, limestone, and imported marble
Architectural planters in aluminum, corten steel, and cast limestone
Extensive plant installations featuring native Quebec species and hardy imports
Landscape lighting design with LED and smart control systems
Outdoor kitchens with natural gas connections and weatherproof cabinetry
Pergolas, pavilions, and cabanas engineered for snow loads
Synthetic turf installation for year-round green spaces
Automated irrigation systems with freeze protection
The Northstone Advantage: Why Integrated Design-Build Matters
The Challenge of Multiple Contractors
Many Montréal homeowners learn the hard way that coordinating separate contractors for pools, landscaping, stonework, and lighting creates unnecessary complications. When the pool contractor blames the landscaper for drainage issues, the stone installer points fingers at the pool company for incorrect elevations, and the lighting specialist arrives to find no conduits were installed—projects quickly spiral into costly delays and finger-pointing. These coordination failures are particularly problematic in Montréal's short construction season, where weather delays can push incomplete projects into the following year.
The Power of In-House Landscape Architecture
Working with The Northstone Group means partnering with professional landscape architects who oversee every aspect of your outdoor transformation. Our landscape architects don't just design beautiful spaces—they ensure technical coordination between all elements from day one. When the same landscape architect who designs your infinity pool also plans your granite terrace, positions your architectural planters, and specifies your drainage systems, nothing is left to chance.
This integrated approach is especially critical in Montréal's prestigious neighborhoods where properties often have complex topography, heritage restrictions, and strict municipal bylaws. Our landscape architects navigate Westmount's hillside challenges, TMR's setback requirements, and Outremont's tree preservation rules while creating cohesive designs that feel intentional rather than pieced together.
Single-Source Accountability
With over 180 in-house professionals, Northstone eliminates the contractor coordination nightmare. Our own crews handle excavation, pool construction, stone installation, carpentry, planting, irrigation, and lighting. This means:
One contract, one warranty: No disputes about which contractor is responsible for issues
Consistent scheduling: Our project manager coordinates all trades without competing priorities
Quality control: Same standards and supervision across every aspect of the project
Streamlined communication: One point of contact for all questions and changes
Budget certainty: No surprise costs from subcontractor markups or change orders
Design Cohesion from Concept to Completion
When multiple contractors work independently, design intentions often get lost in translation. The pool contractor might not understand how their equipment placement affects the landscape design. The hardscape installer might alter drainage patterns that impact plantings. The lighting contractor might miss opportunities to highlight architectural features.
Northstone's integrated process ensures every element reinforces the overall design vision. Our landscape architects remain involved throughout construction, making real-time adjustments while maintaining design integrity. Pool coping aligns perfectly with patio stones. Planter heights complement sight lines from inside the home. Drainage systems protect both hardscapes and plant material. Every detail is considered in relation to the whole.
Technical Excellence Through Integration
Complex outdoor projects require sophisticated technical coordination that's nearly impossible when using separate contractors. Consider a typical Westmount estate project:
Pool plumbing must be coordinated with landscape irrigation
Electrical runs for pool equipment, landscape lighting, and outdoor kitchens must be planned together
Drainage systems must handle pool backwash, surface runoff, and irrigation overflow
Structural elements like retaining walls must account for pool surcharge loads
Gas lines for heaters, fire features, and outdoor kitchens need integrated routing
Our in-house team plans these technical systems holistically, preventing the costly mistakes that occur when contractors work in isolation.
Timeline Efficiency
Montréal's construction season runs from May through October, making timeline efficiency crucial. When using multiple contractors, delays compound—the landscaper waits for the pool contractor, who waits for the electrician, who needs the stone mason to finish first. One contractor's delay pushes everyone back.
Northstone's integrated approach allows overlapping work phases. While our pool crew shoots gunite, our landscape team can be installing drainage systems. As pools cure, stone masons begin hardscaping. Plants arrive exactly when planting areas are ready. This coordination typically saves 6-8 weeks compared to multi-contractor projects, ensuring your outdoor space is ready for summer enjoyment.
Cost Advantages of Integration
While premium design-build services represent a significant investment, the integrated approach often costs less than hiring multiple contractors separately. Hidden savings include:
Efficient equipment use across all project phases
Bulk material purchasing power across 180+ professionals
Reduced mobilization costs with crews moving seamlessly between tasks
Fewer delays mean lower carrying costs and faster project completion
Prevention of costly mistakes from poor coordination
The Northstone Difference in Action
Consider our recent Saint-Laurent project: a 50-foot indoor infinity pool, black granite driveway, custom aluminum and limestone planters, and 800+ plant installation. Attempting this with separate contractors would require coordinating at least six different companies. Instead, our landscape architects designed every element to work in harmony, our project managers coordinated all phases seamlessly, and our in-house crews executed each component to exacting standards.
The result? A cohesive outdoor environment completed in one construction season, with one warranty, one point of contact, and zero coordination headaches. This is why discerning homeowners in Westmount, Outremont, TMR, and across greater Montréal choose The Northstone Group.
Comprehensive FAQ for Montréal Pool and Landscaping Projects
Project Planning and Timeline Questions
Q: When should I start planning my pool and landscape project in Montréal? A: For summer completion, begin planning in November or December. This allows time for design development through winter, permit applications in early spring, and construction start as soon as weather permits (typically late April or May). Northstone's design team works year-round, and early planning ensures priority scheduling for construction season.
Q: How long does a typical pool and landscaping project take in Montréal? A: Most integrated pool and landscape projects take 16-20 weeks from breaking ground to completion. Indoor pool installations may require 20-24 weeks due to additional structural work. The timeline includes: 4-6 weeks for excavation and pool shell construction, 6-8 weeks for hardscaping and structures, 3-4 weeks for planting and finishing touches. Weather delays are factored into spring and fall projects. As well as project scale and complexity.
Q: Can you work through Montréal winters? A: While outdoor construction pauses from December through March, Northstone continues indoor pool installations year-round. Winter is ideal for design development, permit preparation, and material selection. Some clients choose phased approaches: hardscaping in fall, pool installation in spring, and planting in early summer.
Permits and Regulations
Q: Does Northstone handle all permits for Montréal pool and landscaping projects? A: Yes, Northstone manages all permit applications including Ville de Montréal building permits, borough-specific landscape approvals, tree removal permits, and Hydro-Québec coordination. We prepare documentation in French and English, attend committee meetings if required, and coordinate inspections throughout construction.
Q: What are Montréal's pool regulations I should know about? A: Pool safety regulations vary by municipality across greater Montréal, with specific requirements for fence heights, gate mechanisms, and setbacks from property lines. Generally, pools require secure perimeter fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates, and controlled access from the house through patio doors. Requirements can differ between Westmount, TMR, Outremont, and other boroughs. Electrical installations require master electrician certification throughout Quebec. Northstone's landscape architects are thoroughly familiar with each municipality's specific bylaws and ensure all plans comply with local regulations. We handle all compliance documentation and coordinate with municipal inspectors, ensuring your pool installation meets or exceeds current Quebec pool safety regulations (Règlement sur la sécurité des piscines résidentielles).
Q: Do I need special permits for tree removal or grading changes? A: Most Montréal boroughs require permits for removing trees over 10cm in diameter or changing grades near property lines. Northstone's team handles tree permit applications, coordinates with city arborists, and ensures replacement plantings meet municipal requirements. We also manage applications for retaining walls over 1 meter in height.
Cost and Investment Questions
Q: How much should I budget for a pool and landscape project in Montréal? A: Premium pool and landscape projects typically start at $250,000 for comprehensive transformations. Basic pool installations with surrounding deck begin around $150,000. Factors affecting cost include: pool size and features (infinity edges, integrated spas), material selections (natural stone vs. pavers), landscape scope (plantings, lighting, irrigation), and site conditions (slope, access, soil conditions). Northstone provides detailed proposals after site analysis.
Q: What financing options are available for Montréal homeowners? A: Many Montréal clients use home equity lines of credit or renovation financing through major banks. Some incorporate pool and landscape costs into mortgage refinancing. Northstone provides detailed cost breakdowns and payment schedules that align with construction milestones, helping clients manage cash flow throughout the project.
Design and Material Questions
Q: What pool types work best for Montréal's climate? A: Northstone specializes in gunite (concrete) pools that withstand freeze-thaw cycles better than fiberglass or vinyl. We recommend automatic covers for heat retention and safety, variable-speed pumps for efficiency, and salt systems that are gentler on skin. Heaters extend the season from May through October, while indoor installations allow year-round use.
Q: What are the best materials for Montréal driveways and patios? A: Natural stone and premium pavers withstand Montréal winters exceptionally well. Black granite driveways create dramatic entrances, while interlocking pavers offer versatility with excellent drainage and easy repair if needed. Heated driveway systems prevent ice buildup and eliminate snow removal concerns. For patios, we recommend natural stone with proper drainage and sealing, or high-quality concrete pavers that resist freeze-thaw damage. Synthetic turf provides year-round green without maintenance, while Ipe wood decking offers natural beauty with superior weather resistance. All materials are selected for durability in Quebec's challenging climate.
Q: Which plants thrive in Montréal's climate? A: Northstone selects hardy plants rated for Zone 5 and below. Popular choices include Eastern White Cedar for privacy, native perennials like Black-Eyed Susans and Coneflowers, ornamental grasses that provide winter interest, and Japanese Maples for dramatic focal points. Our landscape architects create four-season designs combining evergreens, flowering shrubs, and perennials.
Service Area and Accessibility
Q: What areas does Northstone serve in greater Montréal? A: Northstone serves all of greater Montréal including prestigious neighborhoods in Westmount, Outremont, Town of Mount Royal, Hampstead, and Côte Saint-Luc. We work throughout the West Island (Beaconsfield, Baie-D'Urfé, Senneville, Pointe-Claire), Laval (Île Bizard, Sainte-Dorothée), South Shore (Brossard, Saint-Lambert), and north to Saint-Sauveur, Morin-Heights, and Mont-Tremblant.
Q: Do you work on properties with challenging access? A: Yes, Northstone has extensive experience with Montréal's unique challenges including narrow lot access, hillside properties in Westmount, and heritage districts with strict guidelines. We use specialized equipment for tight spaces and coordinate with neighbors when necessary. Our team has successfully completed projects requiring crane access and manual material transport.
Q: How are pools winterized in Montréal? A: Proper winterization is crucial for Montréal pools. The process includes lowering water levels below skimmers, blowing out all plumbing lines, adding antifreeze to pipes, removing and storing equipment, and installing winter covers. Northstone can recommend certified service providers.
Special Features and Technology
Q: What smart pool technologies does Northstone install? A: Northstone installs advanced automation systems allowing smartphone control of pumps, heaters, lights, and water features. We offer automatic chemical monitoring and dosing systems, robotic cleaners, and LED color-changing lights. Smart systems can integrate with home automation platforms and provide energy usage monitoring.
Q: Can you build pools with special features like swim jets or underwater speakers? A: Yes, Northstone regularly installs swim jets for exercise, underwater speakers for entertainment, automatic covers for safety and heat retention, beach entries and tanning ledges, integrated hot tubs and spillover spas, rock waterfalls and grottos, and fire bowls and water features. Each feature is designed to complement the overall landscape design.
Q: Do you install outdoor kitchens in Montréal? A: Absolutely. Northstone designs outdoor kitchens with natural gas BBQs, pizza ovens, refrigeration, and storage, all using weather-resistant materials. We ensure proper ventilation, drainage, and electrical/gas connections meet Quebec codes. Popular additions include bars with granite countertops, pergolas with retractable screens, and integrated heating for spring and fall use.
Start Your Montréal Pool and Landscape Project
Ready to transform your Montréal property with the #1 ranked pool and landscaping company? Contact The Northstone Group today to begin creating an outdoor environment that defines luxury living in Quebec. From Westmount estates to Mont-Tremblant retreats, Northstone delivers excellence across greater Montréal.
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