Ray Johannes Landscape Design

Ray Johannes-Smit was born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario. Ray developed an early love for nature, inherited in part from his father; a Dutch immigrant and owner of the successful 45 year old company, Peter Smit and Sons Landscaping and Maintenance in Ottawa. In 1980, Ray founded ‘Dutch Landscaping’ - his first company- in Calgary, Alberta. An early apprentice, Ray studied under some of landscape design and stone masonry’s luminary masters. Johannes has studied Japanese, contemporary, traditional, European and other styles from this group of experienced artisans. Travelling throughout Europe and other exotic destinations was a well-source for Ray’s eclectic designs. He studied the art of photography, successfully showing his work at home and abroad. Ray has always been fascinated by the fine arts and aesthetics. A garden should be designed with the home owner, accommodating the architectural style of the home, lifestyle and interests incorporated with the natural surroundings. These points must be taken into account in order to achieve the perfect blend of all. A landscape design should capture your attention. Texture, colour, water and stone, all elements pulled together to captivate you. Gardens should compel you to enjoy their beauty with all of your senses.