Secret Gardens of Toronto

Guild Gardens

The Guild Gardens are rooted in history. Everywhere, architectural fragments of Toronto's heritage stand framed by evergreens or roses. In the 1930s, philanthropists Spencer and Rosa Clark decided to preserve segments of classical and other stylish buildings that were slated to meet with the wrecking ball. They moved several building facades and columns to their estate, creating a stunning and unique garden venue. In 1978, the city of Toronto purchased the property to carry on the tradition.

Hidden Grotto

"Great Scott!," visitors are sure to exclaim over Scott Gwilliams' back yard. Just five years old, this property brings paradise home. Along with ornamental beds containing the usual flowers such as begonias and roses, Scott created a grotto and lake on his grounds. Forty tons of stone and 2000 feet of watering line went into the project. Scott and his wife both work from home so they can enjoy their garden every minute of the day.

Gottlieb garden

A waterfall garden

Ambassador's Garden

As a Canadian diplomat, Allan Gotlieb has seen the world, but now he and wife Sondra, a newspaper columnist, find there's no place like home. Putting up walls for a dining room addition meant tearing down the garage walls that were an eyesore. The Gotliebs left part of one brick wall standing where it remains a focal point to their private garden. The wall supports vibrant clematis and hydrangea vines while elsewhere it hides an inviting pool from plain view.

Hidden Waterfall

Hidden behind a refined Georgian-style townhouse is a garden that roars with abandon. The homeowner wanted a water feature that would make a big splash, so tons of rock were hoisted in place using ancient Egyptian techniques. Besides making a dramatic impression, the falls also serve a functional purpose. The sound drowns out the noise of a nearby subway in this urban neighborhood.

Resources
Guild Garden
Guild Garden
201 Guildwood Pky.
Toronto, ON
Canada
Phone: 416-392-8186
Also in this Episode

Secret Gardens Of... : Episode SGO-313
•	Secret Gardens of Toronto