We are proud to share our latest project with Indwell: the redevelopment of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Kitchener into 43 affordable apartments! This innovative project preserves the historic sanctuary for community events, while creating new living spaces distributed across the building’s lower, ground, second, and third floors. The church’s original facades remain intact, with new windows meeting Passive House standards for sustainability.
SDG designed a beautiful landscape featuring a community garden, planters, public spaces, and preserved trees to enhance the environment for tenants.
This transformation supports St. Mark’s ongoing vision for community outreach and offers much-needed supportive housing, addressing the current encampment and homelessness crisis. Together with Indwell, we’re building a stronger, more caring community.
In the article “Decluttering The Park,” Zach Mortice dives into our journey of transforming this historic green space. From removing urban clutter to introducing naturalized bioswales along Silver Lake, our goal was to bring back the park’s tranquil charm.
Check out the online article at www.landscapearchitecturemagazine.org to see the beautiful before-and-after shots and learn more about our mission to create a peaceful retreat for all to enjoy.
Join us in welcoming Jack Willmott to the SDG team as our new summer intern landscape designer! Jack is a third-year Bachelor of Landscape Architecture student at the University of Guelph. He brings valuable experience from his seasonal work in landscape supply, giving him hands-on knowledge of materials and contractor collaboration.
Earlier this year, Jack expanded his horizons by studying Interior and Environmental Design at the University of Dundee in Scotland, where he also showcased his skills on UoD’s Men’s Basketball Team 🏀. Jack will be assisting in coordinating the exhibition at the 2025 LABASH conference at UofG. With a passion for harnessing natural beauty and creating meaningful solutions, Jack aims to become a licensed landscape architect under the OALA. We’re excited to see his contributions and growth with us this summer! Welcome, Jack!
We are thrilled to welcome Alyssa McDonald back to the SDG team full time! With her Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Guelph and a passion for sustainability, Alyssa is ready to weave her creativity into every project. Her dedication to the environment and design shines through in every project. Welcome back, Alyssa! Let’s create spaces that nurture both people and nature. 🌳
“After finishing my final year of school, and completing my internship last year with SDG, I have gained valuable experience, and grown my skills and knowledge in the world of landscape architecture. I am excited and ready to put these skills to use and jump back into work. I look forward to contributing to SDG’s unique projects alongside this talented team!” – Alyssa McDonald, BLA, Landscape Designer
SDG breathes new life into the campuses at Conestoga College by refreshing the landscape architecture!
At the Guelph campus, our Indigenous-inspired courtyard provides a vibrant space for students to connect with nature and culture. SDG worked closely with Conestoga’s Indigenous group to create a space that included Indigenous elements such as wood and stone surrounding a central gathering circle and native plants. A mural is also set to be added to one of the walls with art developed by an Indigenous artist.
Meanwhile, at the Waterloo campus, the Indigenous theme continues as our concept for the outdoor gathering spaces will incorporate Indigenous design, storytelling, and culture to create a warm, welcoming, and comfortable environment. Some of the cultural design elements will include shade structures and shade relief within the courtyard space, gardens for plant medicines, Indigenous trees and cultural markers, inspirational paving materials and suggestions for site furnishing for gathering and event spaces. The Waterloo campus is currently under construction with the first phase expected to be complete at the end of this year and the second phase slated for spring 2025.
From concept to completion, SDG’s commitment to sustainability enhances student experiences and supports Conestoga’s mission of providing cutting-edge education in harmonious environments.
Cheers to Mathijs de Graaf as he wraps up his internship at SDG! Our team is excited to see him continue his journey of learning and growth with us throughout the summer. Here’s to many more milestones ahead!
“It has been an incredible experience to work alongside this team and other industry professionals. The projects within our office have exposed me to a new understanding of landscape architecture and its importance in our lives. I look forward to continuing with the team throughout the summer and expanding on the knowledge and skillsets that I have already gained.” – Mathijs de Graaf
We are thrilled to announce that our projects, Waterloo Park Improvements and The Gardens at Pillar & Post, have been shortlisted by the prestigious London International Creative Competition Jury for their outstanding landscape architectural brilliance! It’s an honour to be recognized in the BUILD category, showcasing our commitment to sustainable design and community enrichment. Huge thanks to everyone involved in bringing these visions to life!
Check out the links below for more information on the awards.
Embark on a sensory journey with SDG as we transform Quinta Senses into a blooming haven. Our landscape design embraces nature’s beauty, featuring a wellness centre, spa, flower garden, accommodations, and a cafe. The pièce de résistance: a modern pavilion offering a bird’s eye view of flower fields, crowned by a 360-degree rooftop terrace. Brace yourself for a breathtaking experience! Coming soon to elevate a community near you. Masterplan and 3D renderings by SDG.
On March 30th, SDG’s Senior Landscape Architect Brad Smith will be presenting “Transforming Park Ecology: Crafting Synergies between Infrastructure, Sustainability, and Ecology in Waterloo Park” at the LABash 2024 Conference in UC Davis, California.
In this lecture, Brad will unravel the intricate journey of Waterloo Park from pre-pandemic design to post-pandemic completion, showcasing the park’s $11-million improvements and its impact on the community. Brad’s talk will emphasize the project’s commitment to resilience and how the team ‘led with landscape’ to create a unique and inspiring public realm. Learn how the team prioritized sustainability, ecological balance, and community needs. Key efforts included preserving mature trees, enhancing ecological spaces by addressing sediment in Silver Lake, and reshaping Laurel Creek’s shoreline. The revitalized park now features modern amenities like an urban beach, concessions, and artistic sculptures. Waterloo Park Improvements symbolizes a commitment to sustainable infrastructure, community inclusivity, and innovation, aiming to create a vibrant and accessible community hub for residents and visitors alike.
Brad, an award-winning landscape architect, brings over 18-years of experience to the field of landscape architecture. As the lead landscape architect for the Waterloo Park Improvements, Brad’s passion for creating livable, exciting spaces has earned him recognition, including the University of Guelph’s Alumni Volunteer Award of Excellence in 2023.
The LABash conference for students, led by students is shaping the future of landscape architecture. This year’s theme, “Sunny Side Up”, emanates warmth, optimism, and a drive to forge a brighter future for the profession.
Secure your spot at Brad’s transformative lecture by registering at this link and let’s explore how design and ecology converge to shape our urban environment.
Brad’s Lecture was sponsored by Maglin Site Furniture, dedicated to supporting the site furniture needs of professionals crafting inspiring public spaces. With decades of experience collaborating with industry experts, Maglin has honed the ability to establish seamless workflows, prioritize effective communication, and alleviate concerns for their clients.
Exploring Sustainable Design and Innovation for Education at BUM Contract Furniture. As part of SDG’s Continuing Education Series, the SDG Team toured the 12,000 sq ft showroom and 41,000 sq ft warehouse in Oakville.
