Coming to Michigan in June, a ticketed event hosted by The Garden Conservancy will feature several wonderful gardens open for a one-day visit. The “Open Days” event offers a rare opportunity to explore gardens that are rarely, if ever, open to the public.
We are pleased to open our personal garden to fellow garden enthusiasts for this special day. A true passion project, our gardens have become my opus to nature and a personal laboratory for design and experimentation. We are excited to partner with Oudolf Garden Detroit to celebrate this event and the long tradition of fine gardens in the metro Detroit area.
Our 100-year-old Arts and Crafts house and gardens honor the original vision of Mary Chase Stratton, founder of the fabled Pewabic Pottery. Mary and her husband William carefully planned a garden that still retains many of its original elements. As the new caretakers of this nearly 2-acre space, I’ve expanded upon their original design, creating environments focused on natural landscapes that support local wildlife within this urban setting. The gardens, reminiscent of an English country estate, gradually transition into a wilder design as you move beyond the formality of the house gardens. This allows the architecture to breathe and reveals layers of enchantment.
Recognizing the need to preserve open spaces in Grosse Pointe and maintain my own sense of peace through greenery, we acquired the neighboring property to create a sanctuary for native wildlife. This lush, layered environment features diverse habitats that not only support wildlife but also help mitigate stormwater. Stormwater management has become increasingly important in urban areas, and this garden handles vast volumes of water in a natural and beautifully orchestrated way, benefiting both the environment and wildlife.
A few highlights include open meadows, boxwood cloud gardens, historic hardscape walls made from old kiln blocks, romantic pathways, a rain garden, woodland tracts, and a token orchard filled with antique apple varieties. All of these elements are designed to spark curiosity and provide homes for native creatures.
We invite you to support the conservancy by purchasing tickets to visit our sanctuary and many other local gardens this June.
As stated on the Garden Conservancy’s website, the organization’s mission is to “preserve, share, and celebrate America's gardens and diverse gardening traditions for the education and inspiration of the public.” In partnership with garden owners, gardeners, communities, horticulturists, garden designers, and historians, the Conservancy works to preserve outstanding gardens across America. They help new and emerging public gardens become community-based resources by drawing upon the expertise of their dedicated staff and a network of experts in garden design, management, and restoration. They also contribute to the welfare of existing public gardens, assisting them with both natural and manmade challenges to their survival.
Through all of its programs and outreach, the Garden Conservancy champions the vital role that gardens play in our history, culture, and quality of life.
2025 Open Day: Saturday, June 14 Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
