Blog

  • Kings Point Condos

    King’s Point Condo

    Niagara-on-the-lake, ON.

    HOUSING  //  CONDOMINIUM 

    King’s Point is a distinctive waterfront condominium nestled in the charming and historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Situated on the Niagara River where it meets Lake Ontario, King’s Point provides a relaxed condo lifestyle in a breathtaking riverside setting. Each suite boasts views of either the river or beautifully landscaped gardens. Designed to maximize waterfront vistas for all residents, the buildings face the river, while the driveway, front lobbies, and underground garage entrance are located on Ricardo St. The complex features two wedge-shaped, three-story brick buildings set amidst mature trees and meticulously maintained gardens. It encompasses a private garden courtyard with a heated outdoor pool and BBQ patio. Additionally, a riverside terrace furnished with Muskoka chairs offers a tranquil space for enjoying a glass of wine and peaceful reflection.

    SDG was retained to revitalize the aging landscape and introduce new amenities aimed at enhancing the community and encouraging residents to embrace the outdoors. SDG is currently in the process of developing a master plan that includes the creation of new planting areas, walkways, gathering spaces, and recreational facilities, all designed to enrich the community’s outdoor experience.

  • Brad Smith featured in OALA member stories video series

    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.

  • SDG Tours the Rock Garden at the RBG

    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)

  • SDG wins 2022 Architecture Masterprize awards & DNA Paris Design Awards

    We would like to take a moment to proudly acknowledge and celebrate SDG’s remarkable achievements at the 2022 Architecture Masterprize Awards and DNA Paris Design Awards.

    SDG won an Architecture Masterprize and DNA Paris Design Awards for the Gardens at Pillar & Post. We were also pleased to receive honorable mentions in both awards again for the Gage Park Fountain Terrace and the Waterdown Rotary Memorial Park Skate Loop.

    We extend our gratitude for these recognitions, and we remain committed to crafting inspiring landscape architectural designs that enhance the beauty and functionality of public spaces. Thank you for your continued support as we strive for excellence in our field.

  • Brad Smith Receives University of Guelph Alumni Volunteer Award for the 2023 Awards of Excellence.

    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.


  • Park Street’s Road show pays a visit to SDG

    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.


  • Pillar & Post Master Plan (test)

    Description

    The historic building now known as Pillar and Post in Niagara-on-the-Lake was first built in the 1890s as a canning factory for peaches and tomatoes. In 1972, 35 guestrooms were built and it was renamed The Pillar and Post Inn. Guestrooms grew to 122 with a major addition in 1994. The original post and beam construction of the 19th century structure is still evident today in the main wall in the sunlit lobby and throughout the restaurant.

    Seferian Design Group was retained by Vintage Hotels to design a new six acre park and event space at the Pillar and Post in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The ‘Gardens’ will be located directly south of the current inn and spa and will be bordered by John Street, Regent Street, Anne Street, and King Street.

    Our landscape architectural team, worked in conjunction with the architect, engineer, lighting and accoustical consultant to design the Monet-inspired garden space. The space will includes paved pathways, lily ponds complete with a pedestrian bridge, lawn spaces for events, a new event building, vegetable gardens, water features that will double as a skating rink, site amenities and furnishings, and lighting. The new space will also host the Vintage Hotel offices and will include a decorative stone wall around the park to allow for public and private access during events. Regent Street will also be closed to traffic and will be retrofitted with granite cobble.

    Details

    Location: Niagara-on-the-lake, ON

    Size: 6 ha

    Client: Vintage Hotels

    Project Team:
    SDG, Landscape Architects
    Oakridge Landscape Contractors, Landscape Contractor
    ACK Architects, Architects
    Jackson Ponds. Pond Design
    Arborwood, Arborist
    Smart Watering Systems, Irrigation

    Services Provided:
    Tree Preservation Plan, Conceptual Design, Design Development, Detail Design, Permit Package, Construction Drawings.

    Publications

    “Ceremonial planting at NOTL’s Pillar and Post kicks off Garden Project” Satbir Singh, Niagara-on-the-Lake Advance, June 7, 2019.

    “Gardens project at Vintage Hotels moving forward” Brittany Carter, Niagara Now, February 5, 2019.

    “Revised expansion plans proposed for Pillar & Post” Melinda Cheevers, Niagara-On-The-Lake Town Crier, July 25, 2016.

  • The Burlington Public Library celebrates the opening of the revitalized Reading Garden!

    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

  • SDG’s Casablanca Waterfront Park improvement project featured in the June issue of Parks and Rec Business Magazine

    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!

  • SDG took a tour of the Maglin Factory!

    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!