Hank Deenen Landscaping is proud to have played a key role in creating the Tipi and Medicine Garden at Trent University Durham GTA, which was recently honored with a Landscape Ontario Award of Excellence. This Award of Merit for Construction highlights the care, creativity, and craftsmanship that went into creating these special spaces, which celebrate Indigenous culture and serve the campus community.

Unveiled in September 2024, the Medicine Garden was created to support the university’s growing Indigenous community, offering a sacred space for reflection, healing, and connection. Key features of the project include:

  • Traditional Medicine Garden Beds: Filled with native plants such as White Sage, Canada Wild Ginger, New England Aster, and Wild Strawberry, these beds are vital to Indigenous ceremonies and teachings.
  • Healing Pathway: A serene walkway that fosters personal reflection and deeper connections to nature and Indigenous culture.
  • 30-Foot Tipi: Serving as the focal point of the garden, the Tipi includes stone benches and a fire pit, creating an inviting space for cultural events and teachings.
  • “Arcade” Art Sculptures: Donated by a Canadian artist, these seven arches symbolize life’s transitions. The sculpture features words in English, French, and Anishinaabemowin, chosen in collaboration with Trent’s Elders & Knowledge Keepers Council. Minimal concrete exposure ensures the focus remains on the cultural and artistic elements.

“We extend our congratulations to Hank Deenen Landscaping on this well-deserved award. The Medicine Garden is a much-loved and beautiful addition to our campus,” shared Dr. Scott Henderson, vice president and head of Trent Durham GTA. “Thanks to the generous donors who made this possible, and to our faculty, staff, and students who encourage us to continue to innovate and grow our special campus.”

The Medicine Garden is a testament to the importance of creating spaces that honour heritage while promoting biodiversity and education.

At Hank Deenen Landscaping, we are honored to have contributed to this meaningful project, crafting a permanent cultural and spiritual hub for the Trent community. This award serves as a reminder of the impact that thoughtful landscaping can have in creating spaces that inspire, heal, and connect.