In Spring 2026, the University of Guelph will begin construction of an on-campus garden that will celebrate the importance of the DM Rutherford Family Conservatory and honour its role in the University’s history. This project will be conceptually designed by landscape architecture students from the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development.
Help shape the garden’s future
The University is seeking community input to help shape the garden that will live on the site of the former Conservatory and build upon its legacy. The process will gather input from students, alumni, faculty and other interested parties on campus and in the broader community.
This input will help inform the development of a design brief that will guide a student design competition this fall. Elements from the top three student designs will be used by a consultant team to help inform the final design of the commemorative garden, which will begin construction in Spring 2026.
To provide input, there is an online survey, available until Aug. 31. The University also invites interested community members to an open house on campus on August 20 from 3:30-7:00 p.m. at the Albert A. Thornbrough Building Atrium to hear more about the project and discuss details with University staff.
U of G is dedicated to preserving its rich history and heritage buildings that support our academic and research mission. While the Conservatory had a long history on campus, it stopped serving its primary function as an educational and research facility more than 15 years ago.
While the physical presence of the Conservatory is gone, the University recognizes the importance of preserving its spirit and history for current and future Gryphons. U of G is committed to maintaining a public space for the community to enjoy that highlights the University’s rich contributions to horticulture
Additional details of each phase of the commemorative garden build will be posted to the New Commemorative Garden Project website.