Category: News

As the project wraps up, we’re thrilled to share an update from the Hamilton Golf and Country Club’s (HGCC) Patio Enhancement project. Located in Ancaster, the HGCC has long been considered one of Canada’s top golf courses.

The project included the redevelopment of the upper terrace, complete with new natural stone paving, reclad kneewalls, and an outdoor serving area. A portion of the upper terrace has now been covered with a new canopy, which features lighting and heaters to extending the outdoor dining season.

The new lower patio level extends the Club’s ability to provide dining and seating areas for members and incorporates new kneewalls clad in brick and natural stone to match the exterior of the clubhouse. Look closely and you might be able to spot the granite HGCC logo!

The final transformation has been met with a great response from the Club’s membership!

Project Team:

• Client: Hamilton Golf & Country Club
• Architect: Toms+McNally, Graham McNally
• Landscape Architect: SDG, Mike Flint
• Structural Eng: Blackwell
• Electrical Eng: CK Engineering
• GC/CM: Ira McDonald
• Landscape Sub-Contractor: Oakridge Landscape Contractors
• Masonry Sub-Contractor: True Canadian Masonry
• Stone Supplier: Select Stone

Check out this video into the insightful journey of our Senior Landscape Architect, Brad Smith. In this continuing OALA member stories video series, Brad unveils the magic of creativity in collaboration, navigating change, and the never-ending quest for knowledge.

The SDG team had the incredible opportunity to wander through the enchanting Rock Gardens at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Guided by the talented landscape designer, Andrea Berwick, we immersed ourselves in a world of stunning flora and meticulously crafted landscapes. A day filled with inspiration, creativity, and a deeper connection to the beauty of our natural surroundings.

Music: Flying by TrackTribe (YouTube License)

Congratulations to Brad Smith, our Senior Landscape Architect, on being awarded the prestigious UGAA Alumni Volunteer Award for the 2023 Awards of Excellence! Brad is the first landscape architect from the University of Guelph to receive this award. The U of G Alumni Volunteer Award was first established in 1994, to acknowledge and express gratitude to former students who have shown significant dedication and devotion to their alma mater by actively supporting the University through notable volunteer leadership. This award celebrates individuals who have generously devoted their time and efforts to engage in volunteer activities involving students, faculty, fellow alumni, and the University.  

Since graduating in 2006 with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, Brad has embarked on an inspiring journey through his career. His dedication to giving back and educating others about design and the profession is truly remarkable. Brad has actively participated in various organizations, including the City of Burlington Urban Design Peer Review Panel and the Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA), where he served on the Board. Brad’s admirable commitment to community engagement is evident through his involvement with the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation’s Young Professional Committee, contributions to the Burlington Chamber of Commerce and public art juries, and support for the Bruce Trail Conservancy. His passion for education and mentorship shines through his role as a studio design critic at the University of Guelph Landscape Architecture Program, where he has inspired and guided countless students. Brad’s contributions extend beyond the local level, as he collaborates with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry across Canada.

One of Brad’s nominators beautifully summed up his impact, saying, “He is undoubtedly a great Canadian Landscape Architect, but it is his care and compassion for people and society that transcends his work and mentorship.” We are immensely proud of his exceptional contributions and his dedication to improving communities and the profession through volunteering. Congratulations, Brad! You are truly deserving of this award.

We were thrilled to have the Park Street Solutions Road Show visit our office to showcase their revolutionary Green Theory products. From eco-friendly innovations to renewable energy solutions, they are paving the way towards a greener tomorrow.

The Burlington Public Library recently celebrated its opening of the revitalized Reading Garden! SDG provided landscape architectural design and management services and together with the BPL and the City of Burlington, the space was transformed into a captivating oasis for all. Thanks to the incredible support from our generous vendors, suppliers, and contractors, this fully accessible outdoor environment now fosters inspiration, inclusivity, and a profound sense of place. Step into this remarkable courtyard, where a symphony of colours, comfortable seating, and lush plantings invite you to immerse yourself in the joy of reading, indulge in private reflections, and delight in special events and author readings.

Client: Burlington Public Library

Landscape Architecture: Seferian Design Group

Contractor: ELP Landscapes 

Paving: Unilock

Paving Jointing and Tree Surround Granular: Romex Canada

Site Furniture: Maglin

Fence Panels:  Green Theory

The Casablanca Waterfront Park improvement project has been featured in this month’s issue of Park and Rec Business Magazine. Nestled in the charming Town of Grimsby, Casablanca Waterfront Park is on the brink of commencing construction.  SDG is excited to collaborate with Oakridge Landscape and an array of dedicated suppliers to bring this project to fruition. Written by SDG’s senior landscape architect, Brad Smith, the article discusses the park’s design which aims to enhance connectivity, accessibility, and placemaking along the waterfront.  With a combination of active and passive recreational areas, including play spaces designed in collaboration with Burke Playgrounds, the park seeks to provide a vibrant, yet natural environment for the community- while preserving stunning views of Lake Ontario.  Stay tuned for future developments and construction progress of the park coming soon!

The SDG team embarked on a tour through the Maglin Factory in Woodstock last week and got to discover the latest products and services they have to offer. Maglin’s expertise in crafting innovative and sustainable site furniture offers invaluable insights into integrating functional and visually striking elements that fit seamlessly into our designs.

Staff field trips like this one foster a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between people, environments, and the elements. By immersing ourselves in this factory tour, our team gains firsthand knowledge of Maglin’s cutting-edge manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies. Witnessing the craftsmanship and attention to detail firsthand, we gain a profound appreciation for the importance of quality in landscape architecture.

Thank you to Maglin for having us!