HILL DESIGN STUDIO INC. is a landscape architecture consulting firm based in Kitchener.
We offer landscape design, tree management and contract administration services for a wide variety of projects and clients across southern Ontario.
Our staff are members of the OALA, CSLA and the Ontario Chapter of the ISA.
We design for impact, but always mindful of budget and constructability. We understand regulatory approval processes, and the importance of project schedules, and strive to create value in all that we do.
Aaron Hill, BLA, OALA, CSLA, ISA Certified Arborist
Landscape Architect
A graduate of the University of Guelph, Aaron has over 22 years of progressive landscape architectural experience, culminating in the founding of Hill Design Studio in 2020. Over the course of his 22+ years of landscape architecture, Aaron has designed and managed over 500 projects, including landscape masterplans, visioning workshops, design guidelines and construction drawings.
His project expertise includes:
Aaron is a full, stamped member of the OALA, and actively involved with the association's Examining Board.
Kate Hodgins, BAA, ISA Certified Arborist, Tree Risk Assessment Qualified
Landscape Designer
Kate has 10+ years of varied and progressive landscape design experience in numerous environments, with an affinity for unique and interesting plants. Kate has worked with Aaron since 2016, and has been part of the Hill Design Studio team since its inception, collaborating on parks, open space, institutional and multi-unit residential projects across southern Ontario.
Elizabeth Avarino, BLA, OALA Associate
Landscape Designer
Elizabeth is a 2021 University of Guelph graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture, minoring in Geography. She has had 2 years of landscape design experience prior to joining the Hill Design team in 2023. Elizabeth is currently an OALA Associate, and with her Professional Development Program completed, she is now working towards her full OALA membership.
Emily Hurtubise, BEDP, BA Arch.
Landscape Designer
Emily is a 2023 Fanshawe Collage graduate with an Honours Bachelor degree in Environmental Design and Planning and also holds a 2019 Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Design from the University of Laurentian. She has gained valuable experience through her academic career during co-op opportunities.
Jonathan Cressman, BLA, OALA Associate
Landscape Designer
Jonathan graduated from the University of Guelph in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. He joined the team at Hill Design Studio in 2024, and is currently completing his Professional Development Program with the OALA, working towards full membership.