Grania Litwin

2 months ago | timescolonist.com | Grania Litwin

Seen from outside, this 1940 home is pure Arts and Crafts with mullioned windows, half-timbered gables and bold brick cladding. But when the front door swings open, a visitor sees the wonders of Asia — especially this week, because the dining table is being prepared for a large family gathering to celebrate Chinese New Year on January 29. “I like to set the stage and keep an Asian influence,” said Grace Wong Sneddon, who bought the house with husband Malcolm Sneddon three decades ago.

Aug 31, 2024 | timescolonist.com | Grania Litwin

People who drive by this remarkable garden have been known to honk with appreciation, while those on foot often loll at the gate to take in the sumptuous scene. One woman recently wrote a fan letter to the owners, which they found incredibly heartwarming. It’s easy to see why people are drawn to this property. At first glance it’s the three palm trees spreading high above four different varieties of waving grasses, and the winding path edged in a thick carpet of crushing thyme.

Jul 13, 2024 | timescolonist.com | Grania Litwin

Upon approaching the esteemed age of 80, many people begin to ponder the idea of downsizing, of moving into a lock-and-go condo or perhaps a retirement home. Patricia and Peter Clark had a different idea. They wanted to downsize but decided to design and build a smaller new home — and while they were at it they upsized to 10.5 acres in Central Saanich.

Jun 1, 2024 | timescolonist.com | Grania Litwin

A sumptuous rose in Caroline Haywood’s garden is so vigorous it blooms almost all summer and she can’t keep up with deadheading. It’s a bit exasperating, but that’s just what you want in a tiny garden — plants that make a big statement despite their diminutive size. There is no room for any under-achieving shrub, flower or tree.

May 25, 2024 | timescolonist.com | Grania Litwin

Sharon Brindley doesn’t normally design houses or gardens, but about five years ago she did just that. The attractive results caught the eye of Sooke Secret Garden Tour organizers, who asked her to open her garden for the tour. She was both surprised and delighted to fulfil the request. “I am certainly not a house or landscape designer,” she explained, adding she is more familiar with designing hearing clinics from coast to coast.