September 15, 2008
Designers tour Niagara landscape gems
Stops at two stunning Niagara residential properties highlighted an Aug. 20 tour by the LO Designers Group. A full busload of enthusiastic designers and perfect weather completed the mix, making the day a success.
Tom Laviolette, superintendent of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, led a garden tour at the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture, and then invited participants to a residential property from his portfolio. His design uses native plants sensitively, with special emphasis on texture, to create an enchanted green haven.
A contrasting challenge faced Darren Schmahl of Outdoor Images Landscape Services. He was asked to restore the landscape of a grand, Empire Loyalist home, with an eye toward historic integrity. A select crew of skilled stonemasons, using traditional techniques, supports Schmahl’s work-in-progress. Although the style is vastly different from the Laviolette-designed property, Schmahl and his client are also committed to using native plants.
Participants also enjoyed a special lunch at Peller Estates Winery. Tour organizers Beth Edney and Alice Klamer deserve special thanks for shouldering responsibility, and leading the tour so competently.
Tom Laviolette, superintendent of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, led a garden tour at the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture, and then invited participants to a residential property from his portfolio. His design uses native plants sensitively, with special emphasis on texture, to create an enchanted green haven.
A contrasting challenge faced Darren Schmahl of Outdoor Images Landscape Services. He was asked to restore the landscape of a grand, Empire Loyalist home, with an eye toward historic integrity. A select crew of skilled stonemasons, using traditional techniques, supports Schmahl’s work-in-progress. Although the style is vastly different from the Laviolette-designed property, Schmahl and his client are also committed to using native plants.
Participants also enjoyed a special lunch at Peller Estates Winery. Tour organizers Beth Edney and Alice Klamer deserve special thanks for shouldering responsibility, and leading the tour so competently.