Most gardens are assembled.
The best gardens are designed.
Durham Garden Design
Thoughtfully designed residential gardens that feel intentional, timeless, and connected to the way you live.
A beautiful garden is not created by choosing one plant at a time.
It comes from understanding the whole picture: the architecture of your home, the character of your property, the way you use your outdoor space, and the plants that will thrive for years to come.
Durham Garden Design creates layered, naturalistic gardens for homeowners who want a landscape that feels considered from the beginning and becomes more beautiful with time.
Bespoke residential garden design, offered both in person and virtually.
A garden should feel like it belongs
Many gardens evolve through impulse. A beautiful perennial catches your eye. A shrub fills an empty corner. Another plant is added because there is space. Over time, the garden becomes a collection of individual choices rather than a cohesive design.
I approach gardens differently.
Inspired by the principles of English garden design and informed by the realities of gardening in Ontario, I create landscapes where every element has a purpose — from the overall structure to the changing seasons of colour, texture, and movement.
The most beautiful gardens often appear effortless. They are anything but accidental.
Gardens designed with intention
A successful garden balances beauty, ecology, and practicality. It should complement your home, support the way you live, and create a sense of place that feels uniquely yours.
My designs focus on:
Structure and composition
Creating gardens with thoughtful layers, strong foundations, and year-round interest.
Planting with purpose
Selecting plants based on beauty, performance, seasonality, and their ability to thrive in your specific conditions.
A connection to place
Designing with an understanding of Ontario’s climate, soils, and changing seasons.
Long-term enjoyment
Creating landscapes that mature gracefully rather than requiring constant replacement.
Meet Caitlin
From environmental science to garden design
My approach to garden design is shaped by a combination of science, creativity, and practical experience.
With a BSc in Environmental Science, a Master’s in Public Administration, landscape design studies through the University of Guelph, and experience in environmental fieldwork and sustainable landscape practices, I bring a systems-based perspective to every project.
I look beyond individual plants and consider the relationships between the site, the soil, the seasons, and the people who will experience the garden every day.
Because the best gardens are not simply beautiful. They work.
Garden design services
Garden consultations
For homeowners who need expert guidance, help making decisions, or a clear direction before beginning their garden project.
Custom garden design
A complete design process that transforms your ideas into a cohesive landscape plan tailored to your home, lifestyle, and site.
Design support and project guidance
For homeowners who want confidence bringing their garden to life, with support through plant sourcing, installation planning, and implementation.
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Not ready for design help yet?
Start with my free Guide to Planning your Garden.
Before you buy a single plant, learn the principles behind creating a garden that feels cohesive, intentional, and designed to thrive.
Inside, you'll learn:
Why starting with plants often leads to disappointing results
How to think about structure and layering
What to consider before investing in your landscape
How to make better decisions at the garden centre