The Northstone Group, Westmount's Premier Pool & Landscape Company: Natural Stone, Pool & Permit Experts
- Ashley Wilson
- Aug 11
- 10 min read
Updated: Aug 29
Westmount stands as Montreal's crown jewel of luxury real estate, where Tudor mansions and Georgian estates demand outdoor spaces that match their architectural grandeur. As Canada's largest luxury landscaping and pool company with over 25 years of expertise, Northstone Group has become Westmount's trusted partner in creating sophisticated outdoor environments that respect the municipality's strict bylaws while delivering resort-style luxury. Featured in House and Home, Dwell Magazine, Montreal Gazette, and Haute Living, our team of 180+ professionals, including in-house landscape architects, specializes in transforming Westmount properties into private sanctuaries that seamlessly blend with the neighborhood's distinguished character.
Understanding Westmount's Unique Landscape Requirements
Westmount's architectural heritage and municipal bylaws create a unique landscape that demands expertise beyond typical pool and landscaping projects. The City of Westmount maintains some of Quebec's most stringent property regulations, particularly regarding front yard treatments, natural stone requirements, and pool installations. At Northstone Group, our in-house landscape architects possess intimate knowledge of Westmount's specific bylaws, ensuring every project not only meets but exceeds municipal standards while preserving the neighborhood's cherished aesthetic.
Westmount's Natural Stone Requirements
One of Westmount's defining characteristics is its extensive use of natural stone, particularly in front yard applications. The municipality's bylaws specifically require natural stone for retaining walls, walkways, and front entrance features to maintain the area's historic character. Northstone's extensive experience working with natural stone makes us uniquely qualified to handle Westmount's requirements. Our expertise includes:
Premium Stone Selection
Locally sourced limestone matching existing Westmount architecture
Imported granite for contemporary applications
Heritage-appropriate fieldstone for traditional properties
Custom-cut flagstone for elegant walkways and patios
Expert Installation Techniques Our craftsmen specialize in dry-laid stone construction, a technique particularly valued in Westmount for its authentic appearance and superior drainage. This traditional method, combined with modern engineering principles, ensures structures that withstand Quebec's freeze-thaw cycles while maintaining the timeless elegance Westmount demands.
Custom Concrete Pools: Engineering Excellence for Westmount Properties
Westmount's hillside location and mature landscape present unique challenges for pool construction that only experienced builders can navigate. Northstone exclusively builds concrete and gunite pools, the only construction method robust enough to handle Westmount's varying elevations and soil conditions while meeting the municipality's strict engineering requirements.
Why Concrete Pools Excel in Westmount
Topographical Adaptability Many Westmount properties feature significant grade changes, particularly those on the mountain's slope. Concrete pool construction allows us to engineer pools that work with challenging topography, creating stunning infinity edges that capture views of downtown Montreal or intimate courtyard pools nestled into hillside gardens.
Architectural Harmony Westmount's diverse architectural styles—from Victorian mansions to modernist estates—require pools that complement rather than compete with existing structures. Concrete's unlimited design flexibility enables our in-house landscape architects to create pools that appear as natural extensions of your home's architecture.
Heritage Property Considerations For Westmount's numerous heritage properties, concrete pools offer the precision necessary to work within restricted spaces without disturbing mature trees or historic landscape features. Our 3D design technology allows property owners to visualize exactly how the pool will integrate with existing elements before any ground is broken.
Westmount Pool Design Trends
Classic Elegance Many Westmount homeowners prefer timeless rectangular pools with formal geometric lines that echo their property's traditional architecture. These designs often feature:
Natural stone coping using materials that match the home's facade
Integrated spa areas with traditional tile work
Formal water features including fountains and scuppers
LED lighting systems for evening entertainment
Contemporary Statements For Westmount's modern residences, particularly in Upper Westmount, we create architectural pools featuring:
Perimeter overflow designs creating mirror-like surfaces
Glass tile finishes in sophisticated neutral palettes
Integrated fire features for dramatic evening effects
Smart pool technology for automated maintenance and control
Comprehensive Landscaping: Beyond the Pool
At Northstone, we understand that Westmount properties require comprehensive landscape design that extends far beyond pool construction. Our in-house landscape architects create cohesive outdoor environments that respect Westmount's garden heritage while incorporating modern luxury amenities.
Front Yard Excellence: Meeting Westmount's Standards
Westmount's bylaws place particular emphasis on front yard presentations, requiring approved materials and design approaches that maintain neighborhood consistency. Our landscape architects excel at creating front entries that satisfy municipal requirements while expressing individual style:
Natural Stone Integration
Custom-designed stone pillars and entrance walls
Heritage-appropriate walkways using local limestone
Integrated planting pockets for seasonal color
Professional drainage systems preventing ice buildup
Heated driveways with concealed snow-melt systems
Planting Design Westmount's mature tree canopy and established garden character require sophisticated planting designs that complement existing vegetation. Our designs incorporate:
Shade-tolerant understory plantings for tree-lined properties
Four-season interest through careful plant selection
Native species supporting local ecology
Formal hedge installations maintaining privacy
Seasonal color rotations reflecting Westmount's garden tradition
Backyard Transformations: Creating Private Resorts
While front yards must respect Westmount's public face, backyards offer opportunities for personal expression within municipal guidelines. Northstone's comprehensive approach creates seamless transitions from indoor to outdoor living:
Outdoor Living Rooms Our designs extend your home's living space into the landscape through:
Natural stone patios with radiant heating for extended seasons
Custom pergolas crafted from cedar or maintenance-free materials
Integrated outdoor kitchens featuring professional-grade appliances
Fire features ranging from traditional fireplaces to modern fire tables
Weather-resistant audio-visual systems for entertainment
Garden Architecture Westmount's garden tradition inspires our landscape architects to create:
Formal parterre gardens with boxwood hedging
English-style perennial borders with four-season interest
Modern minimalist gardens for contemporary properties
Sustainable rain gardens managing storm water naturally
Vegetable gardens and greenhouses for urban agriculture
Pergolas and Shade Structures: Architectural Elements for Westmount Gardens
Pergolas and shade structures serve both aesthetic and functional roles in Westmount landscapes, providing architectural interest while creating comfortable outdoor spaces for Montreal's variable climate. Northstone's custom pergola designs reflect each property's unique character while meeting Westmount's construction standards.
Design Options for Westmount Properties
Traditional Cedar Pergolas For Westmount's heritage properties, we craft traditional pergolas from Western Red Cedar, featuring:
Classical column proportions matching home architecture
Integrated lighting for evening ambiance
Climbing plant supports for wisteria or roses
Custom millwork details reflecting period architecture
Natural oil finishes preserving wood beauty
Modern Aluminum Structures Contemporary Westmount homes benefit from sleek aluminum pergolas offering:
Motorized louvered roofs for adjustable shade
Integrated heating and misting systems
LED lighting with smart home integration
Powder-coated finishes in custom colors
Minimal maintenance requirements
Hybrid Designs Many Westmount properties benefit from hybrid structures combining materials:
Steel frames with cedar cladding for durability and warmth
Stone columns supporting wood or aluminum tops
Glass panels providing wind protection
Retractable fabric systems for flexible coverage
Luxury Spas and Wellness Features
Westmount homeowners increasingly seek comprehensive wellness amenities that extend pool seasons and provide year-round relaxation. Northstone specializes in integrating spa features that complement pool designs while meeting Quebec's specific regulations for hot tub installations.
Integrated Spa Solutions
Spillover Spas Connected to the main pool, spillover spas create visual continuity while providing:
Independent temperature control for year-round use
Therapeutic jet configurations for hydrotherapy
Natural stone finishes matching pool coping
Energy-efficient heating systems
Automated water chemistry management
Standalone Wellness Retreats For properties where pools aren't feasible or desired, we create dedicated wellness areas featuring:
In-ground concrete spas with custom configurations
Outdoor saunas designed for Quebec winters
Cold plunge pools for contrast therapy
Meditation gardens with water features
Yoga platforms with garden views
Premium Outdoor Furniture: Curating Westmount's Outdoor Rooms
Northstone's partnerships with luxury outdoor patio furniture sets brands ensure Westmount properties feature furnishings that match their architectural quality. Our design team curates collections from renowned manufacturers, creating cohesive outdoor environments that rival interior spaces.
Luxury Brand Partnerships
European Elegance
Gandia Blasco: Spanish modernist designs perfect for contemporary Westmount homes
Talenti: Italian craftsmanship bringing sophistication to poolside lounging
Dedon: German engineering creating weather-resistant woven furniture
Gommaire Organic Living: Belgian artisanal furniture combining natural materials with timeless design
Officine Gullo: Handcrafted Italian outdoor kitchens with professional-grade performance
Our designers consider Westmount's specific climate challenges, selecting furniture that:
Withstands temperature extremes without degradation
Offers easy winter storage or year-round durability
Complements natural stone and landscape materials
Provides comfort for extended outdoor entertaining
Navigating Westmount's Permit Process: Northstone's Expertise
One of the most challenging aspects of pool and landscape construction in Westmount is navigating the municipality's comprehensive permit process. Northstone's extensive experience with Westmount's Planning and Building Department ensures smooth project approval and execution.
Understanding Westmount's Bylaws
Pool-Specific Regulations Westmount's pool bylaws address numerous factors:
Minimum setbacks from property lines (typically 1.5 meters)
Maximum water surface area relative to yard size
Required safety fencing (minimum 1.2 meters high)
Equipment location and noise restrictions
Drainage and backwash disposal requirements
Lighting limitations to prevent light pollution
Landscape Modifications Beyond pools, Westmount regulates:
Tree removal and protection during construction
Retaining wall heights and materials
Driveway modifications and materials
Front yard coverage ratios
Fence styles and heights by zone
Exterior lighting placement and intensity
Northstone's Permit Management Process
Pre-Design Consultation Before creating designs, our team:
Reviews property surveys and existing conditions
Identifies zoning restrictions and setback requirements
Consults Westmount's urban planning guidelines
Assesses heritage considerations if applicable
Determines required variances or exemptions
Documentation Preparation Our in-house landscape architects prepare comprehensive submissions including:
Detailed site plans showing all modifications
Engineering drawings for structural elements
Drainage and grading plans
Landscape plans with plant specifications
3D renderings helping officials visualize proposals
Environmental impact assessments when required
Municipal Liaison Northstone's project managers handle all municipal interactions:
Submitting permit applications with required documentation
Attending Committee meetings when necessary
Addressing municipal concerns or requested modifications
Coordinating inspections throughout construction
Ensuring final approvals and occupancy permits
This expertise proves invaluable given Westmount's average permit approval timeline of 6-12 weeks for complex projects. Our established relationships with municipal officials and thorough understanding of requirements often expedite this process.
The 3D Design Advantage: Visualizing Your Westmount Pool & Landscaping Transformation
Northstone's investment in cutting-edge 3D design technology revolutionizes how Westmount homeowners approach pool and landscape projects. Our in-house landscape architects use advanced software to create photorealistic renderings that eliminate guesswork from the design process.
Comprehensive Visualization Benefits
Accurate Spatial Planning 3D design allows precise visualization of:
Pool placement relative to existing structures
Elevation changes and retaining wall requirements
Mature tree preservation and new planting locations
Sight lines from interior rooms and neighboring properties
Sun exposure patterns throughout the day
Winter shadow patterns affecting pool placement
Material Selection Our 3D renderings showcase exact materials and finishes:
Natural stone options matching existing architecture
Pool finish colors and their effect on water appearance
Pergola designs and their shadow patterns
Furniture placement and scale relationships
Lighting effects for evening entertainment
Seasonal planting changes throughout the year
Municipal Approval Support 3D visualizations prove invaluable for Westmount's permit process:
Clear communication of design intent to officials
Demonstration of bylaw compliance
Heritage committee presentations when required
Design revision visualization before construction
Westmount Project Timeline: From Vision to Reality
Understanding the timeline for pool and landscape construction helps Westmount homeowners plan their projects effectively. Northstone's systematic approach ensures efficient execution while respecting the neighborhood's quality standards.
Typical Project Phases
Phase 1: Design and Approval (8-16 weeks)
Initial consultation and site analysis (1 week)
Concept design development with 3D visualization (2-3 weeks)
Design refinement and client approval (2-3 weeks)
Permit documentation preparation (1-2 weeks)
Municipal submission and approval (6-12 weeks)
Phase 2: Construction Preparation (2-4 weeks)
Contractor mobilization and site setup
Utility marking and protection
Tree protection installation per Westmount requirements
Material ordering and delivery scheduling
Neighbor notification as required by bylaws
Phase 3: Construction (12-20 weeks)
Excavation and pool shell construction (3-4 weeks)
Plumbing and electrical installation (2-4 weeks)
Pool finishing and coping installation (2-4 weeks)
Hardscape construction including natural stone work (3-6 weeks)
Landscape installation and planting (3-6 weeks)
Final inspections and system commissioning (1-2 weeks)
Phase 4: Project Completion (1-2 weeks)
Municipal final inspections
System training and documentation
Warranty review and maintenance planning
Seasonal opening preparation
Why Westmount Chooses Northstone
As Westmount's premier pool and landscape contractor, Northstone Group brings unique advantages to every project:
Proven Expertise
25+ years serving Westmount's discerning homeowners
Featured in House and Home, Dwell Magazine, Montreal Gazette, and Haute Living
Extensive portfolio of successful Westmount projects
Deep understanding of local bylaws and requirements
Established relationships with municipal officials
Comprehensive Capabilities
180+ skilled professionals including in-house landscape architects
Complete design-build services under one contract
Advanced 3D design technology for accurate visualization
Extensive natural stone expertise essential for Westmount
Exclusive concrete pool construction for maximum durability
Quality Assurance
Detailed project management
Regular communication throughout construction
Respect for Westmount's neighborhood character
Protection of existing landscape features
Local Understanding
Appreciation for Westmount's architectural heritage
Knowledge of hillside construction challenges
Experience with mature tree preservation
Understanding of neighborhood aesthetics
Investment Ranges for Westmount Properties
While every Westmount property presents unique opportunities and challenges, typical investment ranges for comprehensive pool and landscape projects include:
Pool Construction
Classic rectangular pools: $150,000 - $400,000
Infinity edge pools with views: $250,000 - $600,000
Architectural pools with water features: $300,000 - $800,000+
Complete pool complexes with spas: $400,000 - $1,000,000+
Landscape Components
Front yard natural stone work: $50,000 - $200,000+
Comprehensive backyard landscaping: $100,000 - $400,000+
Custom pergolas and structures: $15,000 - $80,000+
Outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas: $40,000 - $200,000+
Premium furniture packages: $15,000 - $100,000+
Complete Property Transformations Many Westmount homeowners invest $500,000 to $2,000,000+ in comprehensive outdoor renovations that include pools, spas, landscaping, outdoor structures, and premium furnishings, creating true resort-style properties that enhance both lifestyle and property value.
Begin Your Westmount Transformation
Westmount's unique combination of architectural heritage, natural beauty, and municipal requirements demands a pool and landscape contractor with proven expertise and comprehensive capabilities. Northstone Group's 25-year history, featured recognition in prestigious publications, and team of 180+ professionals including in-house landscape architects make us Westmount's clear choice for luxury outdoor transformations.
Our mastery of natural stone work, exclusive concrete pool construction, and deep understanding of Westmount's bylaws ensure your project proceeds smoothly from initial design through final inspection. With advanced 3D design technology, we help you visualize your dream outdoor space before construction begins, ensuring every detail meets your expectations and Westmount's exacting standards.
Contact Northstone Group today to schedule your consultation with our Westmount specialists. Discover how our expertise in luxury pools, natural stone landscaping, and outdoor living spaces can transform your property into the private resort you deserve.
Westmount Service Areas: Upper Westmount, Mid-Level Westmount, Westmount Park Area, Summit Circle, Belvedere Road, The Boulevard, Forden Crescent, Sunnyside Avenue, Rosemount Crescent, and all surrounding Westmount neighborhoods.
Featured in:
House and Home
Dwell Magazine
Montreal Gazette
Haute Living
www.thenorthstonegroup.com | Westmount's Premier Pool & Landscape Contractor
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