Madison Taylor: Inspired Environments | Zac Wolochatiuk

At Madison Taylor Design, we believe inspired environments don’t happen by accident. They are shaped through intention, collaboration, and a deep understanding of how people live within the spaces we create. But just as importantly, our work is influenced by the environments that shape us.

As part of our Inspired Environments series, we’re reflecting on the people, places, and projects that have helped define Madison Taylor Design—looking back before we share what’s next. In this episode, we sit down with Zac Wolochatiuk, Lead Landscape Architect at Madison Taylor, to explore where he draws inspiration from and revisit one of his favourite projects to date.

Why Landscape Design Matters from Day One

For Zac, landscape architecture is not something that happens at the end of a build—it’s foundational.

“A good landscape design is critical to any project,” he explains. “There needs to be a strong connection from indoors to outdoors, and an overall cohesive feel from the moment you arrive at the property until you step foot inside the home.”

That sense of cohesion is central to Zac’s approach. Landscape design must function seamlessly for the people who live there while reinforcing the architectural vision. Every path, wall, terrace, and outdoor room needs to work together—not only aesthetically, but practically—for the needs of the client and their family.

From Vision to Reality: A Collaborative Process

Every project begins the same way: a client arrives with a vision for their property. From there, Zac and the Madison Taylor team begin an intensive collaborative process rooted in problem-solving, creativity, and site analysis.

“Our process usually begins alongside the architecture department,” Zac says. “We work together to make sure we’re making the best use of the site.”

That means deeply understanding both the opportunities and constraints of the land—regulatory requirements, grading challenges, sun exposure, wind patterns, existing vegetation, and significant natural features. This master planning and site planning phase sets the foundation for everything that follows, from consultant coordination to final approvals and detailed landscape plans. It’s a thorough process, but it allows for the best outcomes.

A Favourite Project: A Challenging Site West of Barrie

One project that stands out for Zac is a wooded property just west of Barrie—rich with topography, dense forest, and complexity.

“It was a really challenging site,” he says, “but also incredibly interesting with a lot of potential.”

The scope included a main residence, a pool house, a detached garage, and multiple outdoor living and entertaining zones—pools, patios, and gathering spaces—all woven into a dynamic landscape.

“Arranging everything on the site was a major challenge,” Zac explains. “But it was also a lot of fun. I think the end result is pretty special.”

Where Architecture and Landscape Meet

One of Zac’s favourite aspects of the project was how the landscape design amplified the architecture.

“The old stone rubble walls were a defining feature,” he says. “They flow right out into the landscape as land walls, which creates this really cohesive, integrated feel.”

That seamless transition between built form and natural environment is a hallmark of Madison Taylor Design—and something Zac is especially passionate about. By echoing architectural materials and details into the landscape, the entire property reads as one unified experience.

The Power of Being Involved Early

What truly fuels Zac’s passion for landscape architecture is being part of an integrated team from the very beginning.

“Too often, landscape architects are brought in at the end of a project,” he explains. “And you’re left wishing you could have made certain decisions two years earlier.”

At Madison Taylor Design, landscape architecture is embedded from day one—at the same table as architecture and interiors, shaping big-picture ideas and ensuring nothing feels like an afterthought.

“Being included from the ground level makes my work incredibly rewarding,” Zac says. “You get to help pull all the pieces together in a meaningful way.”

Seeing the Potential Come to Life

For Zac, the most rewarding moment is watching clients see their property in a new way.

“When a client can suddenly visualize what was once just forest or raw land—that’s the coolest part,” he says. “Seeing something take shape that once only existed as an idea is incredibly fulfilling.”

It’s this ability to reveal potential—to shape inspired environments that function and form flawlessly—that defines both Zac’s work and Madison Taylor Design as a whole.

*Designs are developed by Landscape Architects, Architectural Technologists and BCIN-qualified designers registered with the Association of Architectural Technologists of Ontario,
the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects, and/or the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.