Partner Spotlight: Livingstone Landscaping — Crafting Outdoor Spaces With Heart, Skill, and Vision
At Alair Homes, we know that a home extends beyond four walls. It includes the outdoor spaces that invite gathering, connection, and a deeper sense of living. That’s why our partnerships with trusted trades are so essential — and why we’re proud to spotlight Livingstone Landscaping, a long-standing collaborator bringing beautiful landscapes to life across Western Manitoba.
We sat down with the owner of Livingstone Landscaping to talk about their journey, philosophy, and what inspires them most in their work.
Project Featured: Metigoshe Custom Cottage
A Legacy of Growth
Q: Can you tell us a bit about the history of Livingstone Landscaping and how the company got started?
Livingstone Landscaping was founded by Drew Livingstone in 1992. I started working there when I was just 14 and eventually purchased the business in 1999. My brother Josh joined in 2003 and became a partner in 2005. What began in my backyard grew into a team of 10 at Park Ave East in 2010, and then to our current location on Byng Ave in 2019. Today, our team includes 125 skilled professionals — and we’re still growing.
Inspired Design, Seamless Execution
Q: What types of landscaping projects do you specialize in, and what sets your work apart?
We specialize in full-scale design-build projects for both residential and commercial clients. If you can imagine it in your backyard — we can build it. We also offer ongoing maintenance through our groundskeeping and snow removal teams. What sets us apart is our commitment to quality, detail, and client collaboration from concept to completion.
Q: Can you share a favorite project completed with Alair Homes?
There have been a few incredible projects, but the Lake Metigoshe lakefront build stands out. It featured multi-level patios, large retaining walls, and stone stairs — all designed to maximize the client’s use of their lakefront space. Working with the team at Alair made the process smooth from start to finish. They’re true professionals.
Design with Purpose
Q: How do you approach designing a landscape that reflects a homeowner’s lifestyle?
We start with a discovery meeting to understand how the client wants to use their space, what their challenges are, and what inspires them. From there, we review construction plans, finishes, and architectural style to build a design rooted in both form and function — always guided by the client’s budget and vision.
Q: What outdoor living trends are you seeing right now?
Spaces are getting bigger — with a focus on wellness. Clients are asking for areas to gather in larger groups, using large-format pavers and tailored furnishings. Wellness features like plunge pools, saunas, and workout areas are becoming must-haves for 2025. Outdoor living isn’t going away — it’s evolving.
Collaboration & Craftsmanship
Q: What advice would you give homeowners planning landscaping alongside a build or reno?
Think ahead. Know what you want your space to do for you — what features matter most, how many people you want to host. And plan to do the landscaping alongside your build. It’s the most cost-effective approach, especially if access is limited.
Q: How do you collaborate with designers, builders, and homeowners?
We offer flexible meeting options — virtual, in-office, or on-site. Our design process includes drawings, proposals, and revisions, with digital sharing to accommodate even our out-of-country clients. Once finalized, we order materials, assign a Project Manager, and walk our clients through every step.
Q: How do you stay on top of landscaping innovations?
We’re committed to lifelong learning. We invest in training for our installers and design team, attend trade shows, maintain certifications, and actively participate in professional associations and peer groups.
The Livingstone Process
Q: Can you walk us through your typical process from consultation to completion?
It begins with a Discovery Meeting and usually a design contract. We gather site data, draft the design, and present a proposal. After revisions, the project is booked and our Project Manager connects with the client. During construction, we offer weekly updates (including photos). After completion, we do a walkthrough and provide care instructions and user guides for installed features.
Q: Do you offer maintenance after the project is done?
Absolutely. We offer maintenance contracts for everything from gardening and lawn care to seasonal services like snow removal.
Looking Ahead
Q: What excites you most about the future of outdoor living design?
More homeowners are prioritizing their outdoor spaces. That means more creativity, more opportunity, and more time spent outside. We’re excited about what’s to come.
Q: How do you ensure your designs align with the architecture of the home?
Our design team starts every project with a close study of the home’s architecture and materials. We often source from multiple manufacturers to ensure the best possible match.
Q: Why is landscaping so important to the home-building experience?
Landscaping is your home’s first impression. It sets the tone. In a place like Manitoba, where outdoor time is limited, making the most of that season — right in your own backyard — is how memories are made.
At Alair Homes, we’re proud to work alongside dedicated partners like Livingstone Landscaping. Their commitment to craftsmanship and client care helps us deliver exceptional results — inside and out.