Adapting to Changing Times
Oct 27, 2021 7:30 AM
David Thorn, owner, Thorncreek Winery and Gardens
Adapting to Changing Times

             David Thorn is the President of DT Design and Project Management and owner of ThornCreek Winery & Gardens in Aurora.

David began his professional design career after graduating magna cum laude from Bowling Green State University in 1989 with a degree in Architecture/ Environmental Design.  Upon graduation David joined the staff of KA Architects in Cleveland, Ohio.  As senior site designer and tenant coordinator he was responsible for designing office tower and shopping center sites throughout the country.  After a few years in the commercial design arena, David decided that his true calling was in the field of residential landscape architecture. David’s passion for designing complex and highly detailed landscapes that require seamless execution led him to the design build arena where he could closely manage his projects.

From 1992 to 1995, David worked as lead designer and project manager for all landscape design and installation jobs he generated on behalf of Breezewood Gardens, one of the leading garden centers in northeast Ohio. In 1995, DTR Associates, Inc. was born when the Breezewood Gardens landscape department was sold to David and a partner.   Completing the sale in 2003, David Thorn became the sole owner of DTR Associates, Inc. and lead the traditional design-build company until 2018. Since then, David modified his business model to be more design centric to focus his energy on what he loves most…Design and client relations.  David travels nationally designing and leading a team of project managers to create

“one-of-a-kind” custom landscapes for some of the finest properties in the country. Over his 30-year career David’s been honored with numerous local and national awards as well as been featured in coffee table books and magazine covers.  

In September, 2005 David completed the purchase of the former Dankorona Winery site in Aurora, Ohio.  The eight-acre property is now the home of DT Design & Project Management.  After years of garden additions, renovations and a major expansion that was completed in 2020 the facility now showcases the quality and creativity of DT Design while providing a beautiful intimate setting for ThornCreek’s upscale weddings, corporate functions and miscellaneous special events.

Throughout David’s career, he has been very involved in many professional and non-profit organizations.  David is an affiliate member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, a member of The Ohio Landscape Association, a member of the Ohio Nurseryman’s Association, A member of the Landscape Designers of America, a member of ALCA and a member of many local Chamber of Commerce. David has also served on the board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity, Flashes of Hope, Ohio Landscape Association, the Aurora Chamber of Commerce where he held the office of President for three years.