--- title: "Uncommon Ground Landscape Design — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/uncommon-ground-landscape-design-pfvwus-pf~662762368 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~662762368.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Uncommon Ground Landscape Design" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/ad3369f800fdaa57_2298-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Oakville, Ontario L6L 1T6, Canada" phone: "(647) 370-9609" website: https://www.uncommonground.ca rating: 4.7 review_count: 19 years_in_business: 20 best_of_houzz_awards: 6 followers: 283 last_updated: 2026-10-21 --- # Uncommon Ground Landscape Design > Highly-Rated Landscape Architect in Ontario \| 4x Best of Houzz Original Houzz profile: [Uncommon Ground Landscape Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/uncommon-ground-landscape-design-pfvwus-pf~662762368) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Oakville, ON - **Serves:** Alderwood, Bloor West Village, Brampton, Burlington, Centennial Park, Claireville, Clarkson, Concord, Derry West, Downsview, Eatonville, Eringate, Etobicoke, Hornby, Hornby Station, Humber Valley Village, Humberwoods, Kingsview Village, Kitchener Waterloo, London, Long Branch, Malton, Marvin Heights, Mimico, Mississauga, Mississauga Valley, New Toronto, Newmarket, North York, Oakville, Old Mill, Ottawa, Port Credit, Princess Anne Manor, Princess Margaret Gardens, Rexdale, Runnymede, Sheridan Park, Sherwood Forrest, Streetsville, The Elms, The Junction, The Kingsway, Thorncrest Village, Vista Heights, West Humber Estates, Westmount, Weston, Woodbine Racetrack, York - **Houzz rating:** 4.7 out of 5 (19 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2015–2024), for Service, Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Online consultation - 20 years in business ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - 20 years in business - Online consultation Uncommon Ground Landscape Design is dedicated to creative solutions of endurance and timeless quality. The size of your project does not matter, your commitment to quality does. Serving the GTA and beyond including Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Waterloo, Kitchener, our mission is to give you the tools to visualize and budget your outdoor living space. ### Services Provided - Landscape Design - Garden Design - Hardscaping - Landscape Plans - Patio Design - Site Planning - Drought Tolerant Landscaping - Custom Fire Pits - Pool Landscaping - Custom Water Features - Swimming Pool Design - Gazebo Design & Construction - Design Consultation - Outdoor Lighting Design - Deck Design - 3D Rendering - Project Management - Drafting - Organic Gardens - Shed Design & Construction - Living Walls - Natural Swimming Pools - Rooftop Deck Installation - Green Roofing ### Areas Served - Alderwood - Bloor West Village - Brampton - Burlington - Centennial Park - Claireville - Clarkson - Concord - Derry West - Downsview - Eatonville - Eringate - Etobicoke - Hornby - Hornby Station - Humber Valley Village - Humberwoods - Kingsview Village - Kitchener Waterloo - London - Long Branch - Malton - Marvin Heights - Mimico - Mississauga - Mississauga Valley - New Toronto - Newmarket - North York - Oakville - Old Mill - Ottawa - Port Credit - Princess Anne Manor - Princess Margaret Gardens - Rexdale - Runnymede - Sheridan Park - Sherwood Forrest - Streetsville - The Elms - The Junction - The Kingsway - Thorncrest Village - Vista Heights - West Humber Estates - Westmount - Weston - Woodbine Racetrack - York ### Typical Job Cost CAD 3,000 - CAD 6,000 Design fees vary by project size and complexity from $800 to $3500. We offer a range of design presentations methods from sketches and Computer Aided Design (CAD) drawings to realistic 3D models. Call us for a free consultation and quote. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Uncommon Ground Landscape Design | | Address | Oakville, Ontario L6L 1T6, Canada | | Phone | (647) 370-9609 | | Website | https://www.uncommonground.ca | | Years in business | 20 | | Followers on Houzz | 283 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/pages/Uncommon-Ground-Design-Group-Inc/308080279246040 - X (Twitter) — https://twitter.com/gvaneijk - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=20920619&trk=nav\_responsive\_tab\_profile - Blog — http://www.uncommonground.ca/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Uncommon Ground Landscape Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/uncommon-ground-landscape-design-pfvwus-pf~662762368) - **Website:** https://www.uncommonground.ca - **Phone:** (647) 370-9609 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Mississauga Urban Design Award, 2013 Garden - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2015–2024), for Service, Design. **Affiliations** - [Association of Professional Landscape Designers](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/association-of-professional-landscape-designers-pfvwus-pf~92795973) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.7 out of 5 — 19 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 4.2 - Communication: 4.2 - Value: 4.2 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Iva, July 2020** > Our lot is a reverse ravine so our project is a bit complicated. Gary came up with the perfect design for 2 different scenarios that exceeded our expectations. He's also been invaluable in helping us navigate city and conservation by-laws in Toronto. He's personable and knowledgable plus has impeccable taste. It's been a pleasure working with Gary and I would recommend him to everyone. ### All 19 reviews **★★★★★ — Al Lindsay, March 2025** > Gary did an amazing job working with us on our project and helping to oversee the work as it progressed. He considered all of our needs and pointed out many considerations we would have never thought of. > > He built a plan that we could do in phases to help manage budget over time and the end result is a full front and back landscape that we are thrilled with. > > Gary goes beyond just a basic plan that looks good, and creates a comprehensive design that looks amazing, is fully functional and built to last. > > The investment in a professional like Gary is obvious in the experience of the end design and the landscape is only improving over time versus having to be redone after a year or two. **★★★★★ — Steven / Marci, March 2023** > Gary was introduced to my wife and I from an architectural firm in Mississauga. Never meeting Gary, we were not sure what we about to experience. He asked us a ton of questions, met us at our home, we spoke about the feel we wanted to have when we were done and just like that he drew up a plan that convinced us that he was our guy. We can honestly say that there is not a single thing in his design that we did not love. We are still working through our final changes, as we address the needs of the city and our budget but he has repeatedly expressed his comment to be there to the end-- he is a true professional. **★★★★★ — Aigul Tokzhumanova, March 2023** > We are still in process, but we love the design. Very professional approach, fast to respond if my GC have a question. Looking forward to finish and enjoy this timeless beautiful landscape **★★★★★ — mcmullendj, Nov. 2022** > Let me preface by saying that we are extremely satisfied with the services that we have received from the team at Uncommon Ground. Our particular experience may fall outside the norm of what would be considered to be a typical landscape installation. For our case, we were looking for a landscape design only, where the construction of the project would be done by us and not by a 3rd party contractor. We are very handy people and have plenty of landscape installation experience. We had fallen in love with Uncommon Ground's portfolio and were interested in the development of a concept for our space. After sharing ideas, our wishlist, and budget, we were presented with a concept design, that quite frankly blew us out of the water. Attention to details, usage of the space, flow, eye catching features, softscape recommendation, hardscape selection, colour selection etc... We only needed 1 minor iteration of the concept before moving forward, it was very obvious that our wishlist was very much considered in the design, not in a sense that features are necessarily included, rather their inclusion are part of the flow of the entire design and carry a purpose. We were sold on the concept and then retained their services for the next steps - construction drawings, permitting/halton conservation clearance support, bill of materials, recommended suppliers, contacts, etc... Again, the services offered exceeded our expectations. We may still be in the midst of construction at this point, but the results so far have been overwhelmingly positive. Now that we've completed a significant portion of the construction, we can say unequivocally that the design provided is thoughtful, thorough, functional and eye catching - exactly what we were looking for. Furthermore, it's one thing to see a concept drawing or rendering, it's another to see it come to life... this is one of those rare cases where reality exceeds concepts. We are extremely pleased with the quality of the service that we have received and would recommend Uncommon Ground to any of our friends and family. **★ — HU-185234124, Nov. 2021** > I would not recommend using this company. We starting our job with this company in January 2021 and I still don't have anything completed. I have received no follow up calls or revised drawings. We were suppose to start construction in Sept and never received anything, not even a follow up call. I have left multiple messages, sent emails and still received nothing back. All invoice were paid up front as per the companies policy and have received nothing in return. Terrible service and our new landscaping project was never started as we required these drawings to being construction. Do not use this company. **Comment from Uncommon Ground Landscape Design:** > Thank you for your comments. I'm so sorry that you feel that you have not been taken care of. Please reach out to us directly so that know what project this is and so I can assist in rectifying any issue you have as soon as possible. - Gary **★★★★★ — Al Lindsay, Aug. 2020** > Gary was very helpful. > Comfortable to work with, listened to what we wanted to do and prepared a design that was almost exactly what we wanted... and then was very good at working with us on the few adjustments we wanted and helped us to understand and weigh the tradeoffs of various options. > He worked closely with the landscaper - who clearly respected and looked for Gary's input - and stayed connected to the project throughtout. > > Very happy with the end result **★★★★★ — Debora de Santanna, Dec. 2018** > I was referred to Gary by my designers. And I was happily surprised by his approach from the first phone conversation to the finished design. Everything we need and so much more was promptly offered to us with respect of our budget and our style. I have already referred Uncommon Ground to two friends and I am forever thankful for their services. **★★★★★ — HU-667336189, Dec. 2018** > Amazing crew. The Designs are beautiful. They are Great to work with. Very Innovative. Got the drawings in a timely manor **★★★★★ — John Welton, Dec. 2018** > My wife and I have been working with Gary and Uncommon Ground since we were first introduced in 2009. I am a professional Homebuilder and I learned early in my career that money spent on landscaping is the best money spent on a project. We have done 2 cottages and 3 personal residences with Gary and we are thrilled and couldn't be more satisfied with the fees, the service and the results! Gary tailered each design to the climate, native vegetation and architectural style of each project. Gary's design skills are very versatile from traditional to contemporary. We are going to retain Gary and Uncomon Ground to design entrance features for our next two communities we are producing to set the theme for them. I found the Design fees to be very competitive and the scope of services provided is client determined not imposed. Please give Gary the utmost consideration for your next project. **★★★★ — gillandchris, Nov. 2014** > Working with Gary from Uncommon Ground Design group was great. Gary came to the table with creative solutions to our awkward space. The materials he recommended for the project were unique and modern. Gary was able to provide insight and comfort over the months that we were under construction. He was on site every day to monitor progress and to make plan modifications where required. Gary made himself and his team very accessible for any questions or concerns that we had. Gary has built relationships with a good number of industry professionals. He called on these individuals for the various components of the job and when we needed other creative inputs. > > Ultimately Gary and Uncommon Ground Design Group proved to be innovative, flexible, professional and passionate about our project through each of the stages until completion. We are very pleased with the final product and will absolutely hire Gary again in the future. > > Gill and Chris **★★★★ — peaceofpie, Feb. 2014** > Gary, the founder and owner of Uncommon Ground Design Group, is a very gifted landscape designer and a very easy going and friendly fellow. > He's very conscientious and detailed in his work and his designs show his love of this craft and an excellence that exceeds your expectations. His use of lighting and water features, work areas, ease of transition in his design, choice of native plantings and desire to develop a sustainable plan for his customers all combine together to make an outstanding end product to be enjoyed for years to come. > Without hesitation I would strongly recommend Gary. **★★★★★ — Casualife Outdoor Living, Feb. 2014** > We have been fortunate enough to work with Uncommon Ground on many projects. They are extremely professional, a pleasure to deal with and their spaces and workmanship are incredible. We are proud to recommend them to any of our clients! > > Jill Schwartzentruber - Casualife Outdoor Living **★★★★★ — jabbourcottage, Feb. 2014** > Gary and his team designed our landscaper design with creativity and professionalism. He frequently visited the site in order to oversea and examine the work in progress. We consulted frequently along the way and he demonstrated great flexibility in accommodating our wishes. A few years later he designed an amazing outdoor kitchen like no other. We are so excited to use it this spring!! You won't be disappointed with this highly skilled design expert. **★★★★★ — Vanbetlehem Architect, Feb. 2014** > The team at Uncommon Ground are very well attuned to their craft. They can translate their knowledge of design and materials and provide their clients with the most appropriate, innovative and cost conscious solution to the complicated business of landscape architecture and design. Having worked with the owner Gary van Eijk over the past 10 years on numerous projects, I have been impressed with his ability to hone in to his clients true needs and illustrate his creative solutions with clarity and brevity, and would highly recommend Uncommon Ground. **★★★★★ — Jason Hartog Photography, May 2013** > I have had the pleasure of visiting several of Gary's projects over the last few years and am blown away each and every time. From incorporating an infinity pool on the edge of an escarpment to a creating a private backyard oasis in the city, each of Gary's designs demonstrates an attention to detail that is second to none. Gary's unique ability to balance form and function enables him to design landscapes that are not only stunning but will stand the test of time. > > I would not hesitate to recommend Gary and his team to anyone looking to transform an out door space **★★★★★ — deannegday, Feb. 2013** > We hired Uncommon Ground last year to undertake the design of a renovation of our backyard. Our home is situated on a tree preservation area. Although the lot itself is quite expansive, its topography and the municipal restrictions are extremely challenging. Gary Van Eijk and his team created a beautiful design that has significantly improved the functionality and our enjoyment of our home. Gary is extremely knowledgeable, efficient and committed and it was a pleasure to work with him! **★★★★★ — Hunter Carpentry, Feb. 2013** > I have worked with Gary and his team many times, it has always been an excellent experience. I have found Uncommon Ground Design Group great to work with. Their drawings are so detailed which is great for me as a Carpenter and also great for the customer as they know what they are getting. I am always very impressed with their designs ,they always suit their setting and by the completion of the project their customers are delighted. I also admire Uncommon Ground Design's ability to communicate well with their customers and Trades people on the site .This ensures the projects are well scheduled ,the budget is followed and completed in a timely manner. I'm looking forward to working with Uncommon Ground for many years to come. **★★★★★ — David Small Designs, Jan. 2013** > Gary van Eijk is a great talent when it comes to landscape design. He is professional, detail oriented and extremely creative. We have worked together on a multitude of projects and each shared client has enjoyed the seamless interaction between the disciplines of home and landscape design. We highly recommend Gary van Eijk and his team at Uncommon Ground Design Group. ## Selected projects - [Clean Lines](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/clean-lines-pj-vj~7397791) - Location: Brampton, ON - Photos: 15 - Description: With modern appeal, this estate sets its self apart from its neighbours with unusual efficient use of space and privacy. - [Architectural Delight](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/architectural-delight-pj-vj~7397938) - Location: Oakville, Ontario - Photos: 7 - Description: A narrow but elegant yard makes room for multiple uses and a comfortable space is created for both children and adults. - [Water Play](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/water-play-pj-vj~7408980) - Location: Vaughan, ON - Photos: 16 - Description: A spacious back yard is used daily for lounging, swim and dining. - [2023 Small Space Contemporary Pool](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/2023-small-space-contemporary-pool-pj-vj~7633046) - Location: Oakville, ON - Photos: 7 - Description: A compact site offered challenges and gave opportunities to create a unique use of space with all of the amenities. - [David's House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/david-s-house-pj-vj~89531) - Location: Mississauga, ON - Photos: 28 - Description: David’s mission was to design a modern home that embodies the ideals of comfort, warmth and family living. A modern home that is intimately tied to its surroundings; in harmony with its environment. A family home that is a reflection of his lifestyle, desires and inspirations. His house is completed and his mission achieved. Welcome to David’s modern family home. - [Living With Trees](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/living-with-trees-pj-vj~6308236) - Location: Mississauga, ON - Photos: 8 - [Backyard Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/backyard-renovation-pj-vj~611650) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - [Kitchener Pool](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchener-pool-pj-vj~6319407) - Location: Kitchener, ON - Photos: 10 - [Poplar](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/poplar-pj-vj~6085952) - Location: Oakville, ON - Photos: 11 - [Kitchener](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchener-pj-vj~5776386) - Location: Kitchener, ON - Photos: 23 - [Classic Ellegance](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/classic-ellegance-pj-vj~4389738) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - Description: A shady back yard gives up its space for dining and play. - [Mississauga Park](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mississauga-park-pj-vj~155901) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - [Hamilton Landscaped Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hamilton-landscaped-estate-pj-vj~148763) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 8 - Description: A vanishing edge pool overlooking the city of Hamilton and the Niagara Escarpment. - [Ancaster](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ancaster-pj-vj~180993) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - [Oakville Landscape Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakville-landscape-design-pj-vj~228095) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - Description: Landscaped Oakville Home with pool water feature and a Japanese Garden. - [Lorne Park 1](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lorne-park-1-pj-vj~160194) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - [Muskoka in Mississauga](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/muskoka-in-mississauga-pj-vj~148775) - Location: Mississauga, ON - Photos: 4 - Description: Muskoka in Mississauga - [Mississauga Front Yard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mississauga-front-yard-pj-vj~155886) - Location: Mississauga, ON - Photos: 2 - Description: Front Entry Court-Yard and Driveway - [Sculpture Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sculpture-garden-pj-vj~148724) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Streetsville](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/streetsville-pj-vj~148735) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 [See all 30 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/uncommon-ground-landscape-design-pfvwus-pf~662762368) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/927126245.m3u8?s=08ca6999d08c1790c471cea406d4072cbc4216f0&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of landscape design projects do you specialize in?** We specialize in a wide range of residential landscape design projects, from small condo spaces to large estates. Our expertise covers everything from designing gazebos, pools, patios, and outdoor kitchens to creating comprehensive garden designs, hardscaping, and even green roofing. We focus on creative, functional, and enduring solutions for your outdoor living space. **Do you offer design-only services or full project coordination?** We primarily offer design-only services as independent design consultants. However, we also provide optional project management and design control services, where we can oversee construction aspects, assist with customized designs, manage permit applications, and offer on-site presence to ensure your vision is realized efficiently. **Do you create detailed planting and layout plans?** Yes, absolutely. Creating detailed planting and layout plans is a core part of our landscape architectural practice. Our Phase 2 Design Details include comprehensive planting designs, plan layouts, grading, and lighting designs, all necessary for accurate quotes and efficient construction. We also offer planting suggestions as part of our consultation. **Do you design outdoor living spaces such as patios and outdoor kitchens?** Yes, we certainly do! We specialize in designing comprehensive outdoor living spaces, including beautiful and functional patios and outdoor kitchens. Our goal is to maximize your space and minimize maintenance, ensuring these elements integrate seamlessly into your overall landscape design. **Do you design drought-tolerant or sustainable landscapes?** Absolutely. We are deeply committed to designing sustainable and environmentally resilient landscapes. This includes specifying drought-resistant native plants, using locally available materials to reduce carbon footprint, and suggesting features like rainwater harvesting cisterns and solar panels. We aim to create designs that are both beautiful and beneficial for the environment. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [California](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/139679316/list/california) — 11 ideas - [Uncommon Ground Design's Portfolio](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2483638/list/uncommon-ground-design-s-portfolio) — 18 ideas - [Saar](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7979082/list/saar) — 21 ideas [See all 3 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/gvaneijk) ## Community Q&A **Q: What is the pool coping / surround material?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: The material is Black Chinese Limestone **Q: Stone** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you tell me what brand and colour of flagstone you used? Beautiful landscaping! A: Wiarton Limestone was used on this porch and paving with a "Rock Faced" tread nosing. **Q: Siding** *(in Photo Questions)* A beautiful colour of siding. The landscaping is gorgeous. What is the colour of the siding and the finish? A: The Architect chose the colouring for the Cabana to match the residence - I don't have that information. Sorry. **Q: Love the whole patio. What is the wall material?** *(in Photo Questions)* We are building a patio with Banas Lavender, but we can't find a good wall material. We have roughly 20 feet of wall and will need wall material. A: Banas Lavendar is hard to match in natural stone veneer. Depending on the wall height -Try Permacon Conestoga Buff, Onyx Brown or Burnt Red Blend. Another option is to use a Black colour wall and Banas coping or to match the colour of the closest Structure. **Q: Patio.** *(in Photo Questions)* What type of Banas stone? A: Banas is the supplier. The type of stone is a squarecut flagstone from India. I beleive it is called Banas Bronte. **Q: How can we get the plans for this shed complete?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: This shed is a custom design from the Architect. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-10-21.*