Bethany Nelson

Nestled along Kempenfelt Bay on Lake Simcoe, Bethany grew up in Barrie, Ontario, which developed her strong connection to the outdoors, waterfront environments, and the recreational opportunities they offer. These connections ultimately inspired her pursuit of landscape architecture, where her passion for creating safe, welcoming, and useful spaces, that encourage people to connect with nature and enjoy the places they live, was developed.

Prior to joining pl.ural, Bethany gained hands-on experience in both landscape and waterfront operations. Through her work as a Landscape Gardener, she developed a strong understanding of planting, site conditions, and the practical considerations involved in creating and maintaining outdoor spaces. Her experience as an Inshore Rescue Boat Coxswain and Crew Member with the Canadian Coast Guard further shaped her appreciation for waterfront environments, public safety, and the ways people interact with recreational spaces.

Bethany’s work at pl.ural spans conceptual design, detailed site inventories, planting design, technical landscape remediation plans, and graphic communication. She particularly enjoys designing waterfront and recreational spaces, where considerations for accessibility, safety, and user experience come together to create meaningful places for communities.

Key projects for Bethany include the West Perth Wayfinding Signage, Kincardine MacPherson Park Inclusive Playground Site Design, and Barrie Holly Community Park Water Play Feasibility Study.

One of Bethany’s favourite aspects of working at pl.ural is seeing how thoughtful design can transform everyday spaces into places where communities gather, play, and connect.

Outside the studio, she enjoys participating in recreational sports, including volleyball and basketball, exploring new camping and beach destinations, and running.