About GardenStructure.com
Three decades of crafting exceptional outdoor spaces across Southern Ontario. Founded on the principles of Japanese temple building and refined through decades of experience.
Our Philosophy
Garden Structure was born from a simple recognition: traditional house construction rules don’t apply to outdoor structures. When you expose wood and materials to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and wind, everything changes.
Rather than just rebuilding failed projects the same way, we invested time and effort into discovering why things went wrong and developed better methods. Our architectural details don’t come from books—they come from three decades of solving real-world problems.
Master Craftsmen
Our builders started as trim carpenters. It takes a special craftsman to produce beautiful structures that last decades. Our builders have put in the time to learn the secrets of building well outside. Most of our structure builders are actual trim carpenters who understand the precision required for lasting outdoor construction.
Design Excellence
Many architects, other designers, and even engineers rely on our unique detailing for their projects. Our photorealistic renderings are renowned in the business of design, helping clients visualize their dream outdoor spaces before construction begins.
We offer comprehensive services—from design-only consulting to overseeing entire projects. Our approach combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to deliver structures that are both beautiful and built to last.
Proven Methods
We developed our own specifications and details that help pergolas, cabanas, and outdoor structures withstand Canadian weather conditions. Our methods have been tested by time and proven across hundreds of installations throughout Southern Ontario.
Lawrence Winterburn
Founder & Master Designer
Combining Japanese temple building techniques with modern outdoor construction
Our Founder’s Journey
Lawrence Winterburn studied woodwork and immersed himself in the ancient art of Japanese temple building, alongside insights from Taunton’s Fine Homebuilding magazine. This unique combination gave him distinctive design sensibilities that set Garden Structure apart.
At just 25 years old, Lawrence was building custom homes featuring glass roofs and integral solariums, designing restaurants, crafting fine cabinetry, and managing commercial projects up to 50,000 square feet.
Growing impatient waiting for architects to design interesting projects, he began collaborating with landscape designers and architects who offered more creative freedom. This partnership approach led to increasingly unique structures and innovative solutions.
Within a few years, www.gardenstructure.com was supplying shade structure details and pergola designs to architects, engineers, and dozens of builders across North America.
Our Evolution
Foundation
Garden Structure founded, combining Japanese building techniques with Canadian outdoor construction needs.
Industry Recognition
Featured in major publications including Canadian House and Home, Southern Living, and Canadian Gardening magazines.
Professional Partnerships
Plans adopted by Western Red Cedar Lumber Association and Lee Valley Tools, reaching builders across North America.
Modern Innovation
Converting traditional plans to 3D format with photorealistic renderings, making complex builds accessible to DIY enthusiasts.
What Sets Us Apart
Three decades of specialized outdoor construction expertise
Architectural Detailing
Our structural details are born from real-world problem-solving, not textbook theory. Every specification has been tested by Canadian weather conditions.
Master Craftsmanship
Our team consists primarily of experienced trim carpenters who understand the precision required to create outdoor structures that last decades.
Design Innovation
Photorealistic 3D renderings and detailed construction plans help clients visualize projects and builders execute them flawlessly.
Industry Recognition
Trusted by professionals across North America
Magazine Features
Canadian House and Home, Southern Living, Canadian Gardening
Industry Partners
Western Red Cedar Lumber Association, Lee Valley Tools
Professional Network
Trusted by architects, engineers, and builders across North America
Service Area
Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, and throughout Southern Ontario
Ready to Build Something Spectacular?
Experience three decades of outdoor building expertise for your next project
