Longshadow Gardens

Longshadow Gardens was inspired by the diversity of shadows cast by oaks, lindens, and maples

native to the garden’s pastural setting. Not long after founders Charlotte and Daniel Ward met while working together at the Chicago Botanic Garden, they discovered a vista that would soon become home to one of the most revered garden ornament and dry cast planter design facilities in the world.

The company motto is Fabricio in Horto Nostro—Latin for “Factory in a Garden.” A visit to this 123-acre landscape reveals majestic grounds of spring ephemerals, wild orchids, spicebush, witch hazel, and many more. Charlotte and Daniel give all credit to the employees and artisans who practice a highly refined, labor-intensive craft. What started as a locally focused concept has blossomed into an international operation, enhancing the gardens of premier properties—from the Ritz-Carltons in Dallas and Dubai, to Chicago’s Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium.

A moonlight walk among rows of planters reveals the sparkle and effervescent texture of each unique piece, the result of the fine mix of silica sand and local Bedford limestone. Charlotte and Daniel invite gardeners, arborists, designers, architects, educators and students to experience timeless designs in one of the most beautiful self-sustaining factories on the planet. Created with reverence for this natural rural community and crafted into a destination of peace and tranquility that will stay with you long after your departure.

Discover more Illinois artisans at Illinois Made.