At Gardenbau, the philosophy is simple: create and maintain outdoor spaces that help clients celebrate life. For founder Peter Wodarz, this mission is personal. A lifelong bond with nature sparked his passion for landscape architecture, leading him to build a business that blends design, construction, and maintenance into one seamless experience.

A Passion for Nature and Design

Peter’s love for the outdoors began in his youth, growing up in the western U.S. and Canada, where he spent his time hiking and camping. This deep connection to nature led him to study landscape architecture at the University of Illinois, where his love for architecture and the outdoors converged.

What brings Peter the greatest joy is seeing his clients engage with their outdoor spaces, whether it’s a backyard wedding or watching birds feed on native plants. These moments of connection to the land inspire him every day.

A Family Legacy in Barrington and Inverness

Peter raised four children in the Barrington/Inverness area, making countless memories on their 2.5-acre property. From discovering salamanders in the creek to watching snapping turtles hatch, his love for nature has always been rooted in family and community.

The Journey to Gardenbau

Early in his career, Peter founded a landscape design business, which grew into a firm with over 89 employees. However, in 2016, he sold the company to focus on a new vision: Gardenbau. Gardenbau was created to serve the local community with a personalized approach, offering everything from design to construction and ongoing maintenance. The company emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, ensuring each landscape remains beautiful and enduring for years to come.

Creating Spaces for Joy and Celebration

At Gardenbau, the focus is on designing landscapes that enhance quality of life. Whether it’s crafting a serene outdoor retreat or setting the stage for life’s most cherished moments, the team prioritizes thoughtful, client-centered design. Every project is approached with a commitment to sustainability and longevity.

Personalized Landscape Services

Gardenbau offers weekly care and maintenance services tailored to each client’s needs. With over 35 years of experience, Peter and his team understand the unique landscape needs of Barrington and Inverness homeowners, providing expertise that ensures outdoor spaces thrive year-round.

Quality People, Lasting Relationships

Gardenbau’s success is built on strong client relationships. Their maintenance crew leaders develop close connections with homeowners, ensuring that every landscape reflects the client’s vision and preferences. This personal approach makes the process more meaningful and fulfilling.

Connecting People with the Land

Peter’s vision extends beyond landscape design. His sustainable facility, Piecemeal Farm, is built on permaculture principles, emphasizing a deep connection to the land. Gardenbau encourages clients to develop a similar appreciation for nature while giving back to the community through fundraisers and farm-to-table events.

This fall, Gardenbau will host an “Empty Bowl” fundraiser, highlighting local restaurants and farm-grown ingredients. The event will support local charities focused on food insecurity, reinforcing Gardenbau’s commitment to community impact.

A Reputation for Excellence

Gardenbau’s commitment to quality is reflected in the words of their satisfied clients:

"Pete and his team create excellent designs and solutions to fit the land, the need, and the environment, and then flawlessly execute and build per that design. The outcome on our most recent project is beautiful, consistent with the results we have achieved together over many years."
— Teresa D.

Embracing the Beauty of Every Season

Gardenbau encourages Inverness residents to appreciate the beauty of every season—from the first blooms of spring to the striking contrast of red cardinals against winter snow. Each season offers opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the world around us.

Let Gardenbau Help You Celebrate Life Outdoors

If you’re ready to create an outdoor space that brings your vision to life, Gardenbau is here to help. With their experienced team and passion for design, they’ll transform your landscape into a place you’ll cherish for years to come. Contact Gardenbau today to begin your journey toward a beautiful, sustainable, and celebratory outdoor space.