You might think that since Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping is a landscape design and construction company that winter is our down season. We actually do keep busy in the winter. In fact, we are running the following special for winter.
From now through Dec. 15th, any new installation contracts will receive a 5% discount if the contract is signed by the 15th. Any new design contracts will receive a 25% discount through Dec 15th. Use discount code “Winter Work” when you schedule your consultation.
Here are some of the types of projects that we work on in the winter.
Hardscape Installs
Winter is a good time to install hardscapes. As long as we have dug out the foundation before the ground freezes, we can still build retaining walls and paver patios in the off-season. These are items that do not require pouring concrete, so as long as it is warm enough for the Blue Crew to work, we can do it. Most of our hardscape installations are considered a flexible installation and are set on a base of open-graded aggregate. We have found that this method works best for drainage, compaction, and settling. If the temperature is above freezing for several days, we can even pour concrete for patios, sidewalks, and bases to set stone on.
Landscape Lighting
Landscape lighting is another activity that is not dependent on warm temperatures. As long as we have dug the ditches for the wires before it freezes, we can put in lighting wherever you want it. For some great ideas for what type of lighting to put in, see our articles on lighting innovations for 2022 and automatic low-voltage LED lighting systems.
If you have an existing lighting system, now is a great time to update it. We can swap out fixtures, re-aim lights, and add more lighting fixtures to your outdoor living area. Since the sun sets so early, you can really see the areas that need more light or other help.
Planning Projects for Spring
Everyone thinks of new projects in spring when the growing season starts. However, new projects take time to plan, and our spring schedule fills up quickly with overflow from the previous year’s projects and the rush of new projects that come in with warmer weather. We typically can get booked out between 8-12 weeks once spring arrives. Now is one of the best times to plan a new project. In addition to having time to think about what new features you want and work with us to design them, planning now lets you schedule yourself on our project calendar. The sooner you do that, the sooner we can build your new features. Our project calendar is already filling up, so contact us to get an early slot.
Remember to claim your discount of 5% for new installation contracts or 25% discount for new design contracts through Dec 15th. Please share with friends or family who may be interested in sprucing up their property. Use discount code “Winter Work” when you schedule your consultation.
Just because it is winter doesn’t mean you have to stay inside. If you have cabin fever, here are some of our favorite activities to get your family outside, away from screens, and spend quality time together.
Sledding
There are some great sledding hills in Kansas City. Here is a short list to get you started. Next time it snows, bundle up, grab a sled and give these a try:
56th and Brookside, Brookside Park (“Suicide Hill”)
Avila University
Shawnee Mission Park
119th & Kansas City Rd. (Olathe)
137th and Black Bob Rd. (Olathe, just south of Lowe’s)
Olathe East High School
Snow Creek
Snow Creek is your Winter Outpost for outdoor recreation in the Kansas City Area (and an 8-hour drive to Keystone Ski Resort!). Nestled in the town of Weston, MO Snow Creek recently celebrated its 35th season.
Things to know before you go:
Masks are required indoors, including the gondolas.
Proof of vaccination is required at indoor, on-mountain quick-service (cafeteria-style) restaurants.
No cash payments accepted
Ice skating
Outdoor ice skating just seems to be more fun than indoor skating. You can skate outdoors in downtown Kansas City at Crown Center Ice Terrace. The skating rink is in Crown Center Square. Or if you are near Leawood Kansas, then Park Place may be a better place for your family. Both locations have shops and dining nearby to make a day out of the experience.
Penguin March at Kansas City Zoo
On the fourth weekend of each month, the Humboldt penguins parade around the Helzberg Penguin Plaza at the Kansas City Zoo. The kids will love seeing these little guys shuffle through just a few feet away. You can watch this free from 11:00 am to 11:15 am with admission to the zoo. Jackson/Clay County residents pay $8.50-$10.00, while others pay $17.00-$20.00. Children under 2 years old are free. See a sneak peek of the penguins here.
Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
This impressive sculpture park is on the grounds of the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art. The Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park is great for outdoor enthusiasts and those wanting to view art in a different kind of setting. As you meander through the museum grounds, you will stop at several sculptures to examine the materials, techniques, subject matter, and artistic styles of these outdoor objects
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
The Arboretum and Botanical Gardens in Overland Park are open from 10-5 daily during the winter. Children under 6 are free, children 6-12 are $1, and Over 12 are $3. They have beautiful gardens to walk through every season, including in the winter. They also have a special garden for children that allows children to climb to the top of a spiraling walkway, visit the frog pond, explore a shrinking tunnel and study fossil and animal footprints. In addition, they can enjoy the story tree and nature play area. There are several other gardens including a sculpture garden.
Bar K Dog Park
Bar K Dog Park is more than just a dog park. It is a place to socialize with like-minded people and you can include your dog in the fun. Bar K includes a two-acre dog park, including a space just for small dogs, a restaurant, event spaces, special events, and a lot of fun. The hours are 9 am to 8 pm Sunday –Thursday, and 9 am to 9 pm on Friday. This is a member’s only space, but you can purchase a guest pass to try it out for $10 – $15 for one dog, more for extra dogs. You can visit without a dog for free. The dog park, restaurant, and all the spaces are staffed by trained dog handlers so your dog will be safe. Your dog must be current on immunizations, be at least 12 weeks old, and play nice with other dogs to enter.
Your Own Winter Wonderland
Winter is a great time to reflect on your outdoor living space and plan any additions you want to make in it. Make plans to replace any plants that didn’t make it through the winter or that you are not satisfied with. What hardscapes would make your outdoor living space more pleasant? This ranges from a simple gazebo to an entire outdoor room complete with a fireplace and big-screen television. We at Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping can work with you to design something that best suits your landscape and needs. Schedule a consult with us today.
