GAMBIER – Schnormeier Gardens, located at 8701 Laymon Road, Gambier, will hold an open house event Thursdays through Sundays June 1-25.
Ted Schnormeier, of Gambier, Ohio will open his spectacular private gardens to the public. Reservations are required and can be found online at schnormeiergardens.org. There are two reservation slots — 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and there is a $50 parking fee per car.
Advance notice of groups arriving by bus must be made by calling 740-427-2612.
This is a once-a-year opportunity to tour 75 acres of exquisite gardens nestled in the rolling hills of Central Ohio. Schnormeier Gardens has a distinct Asian influence, featuring a variety of plantings rich in color and texture accented by larger boulders, stone walls, waterfalls, unique sculptures and structures.
The gardens are rarely open to the public, and this open house represents the only opportunity this year to visit and enjoy this remarkable site.
Schnormeier Gardens, located in the gentle rolling hills of Gambier, Ohio, began in 1996. Over the years, they have grown to include 50 acres of manicured lawns, 10 lakes, a variety of discrete garden areas and several waterfalls.
The focal point of the property is a spectacular Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired home. This private residence was completed in 1994. The interior of the home is not part of the public tour. Other structures on the property include a Japanese tea house, garden house, Chinese pavilion and arched bridge. Ever-growing collections of unique sculptures are also located on the grounds.
Rare conifers are plentiful at the gardens. Large boulders and stonewalls add dimension and contrast to the landscape. Designed with a bold vision and attention to detail, the gardens offer delightful viewing.
Tours are self-guided. The property is hilly, and contains manicured lawns, woods, meadows, streams, lakes, footbridges and many beautiful vistas. Visitors are welcome to take photographs.
There are no paved or designated pathways so visitors are encouraged to dress comfortably and to wear walking shoes. The gardens are not recommended for those with limited mobility. Additionally, this is not an appropriate venue for pets so visitors are encouraged to leave them at home.
Visitors are free to wander the entire 75 acres. Those attending the open house should start at the welcome center at 8701 Laymon Road. The welcome center features striking photographs of the gardens and full-color tour brochures with maps. Restrooms are available close to the welcome center and near the Hosta Garden.
For additional information, visit the website at schnormeiergardens.org or contact Carol Garner at carolgarner22@hotmail.com, Ted Schnormeier at 740-427-2612 or email schangrala@aol.com.
It has been said that a garden can have a soul, but only if it is shared with others.
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