AHS LIVE Behind-the-Scenes Garden Tour: Ford House
with Karl Koto, director of landscapes, Ford House
Friday, October 2, 2026 from 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. ET
Grosse Pointe, MI
$40 AHS members/$50 non-members
Approved for .75 CEU with the Association of Professional Landscape Designers
Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake St. Clair, Ford House is a National Historic Landmark where history, architecture, and landscape come together in one of America’s most remarkable estates. Designed by renowned landscape architect Jens Jensen in close collaboration with Edsel and Eleanor Ford, the grounds blend his signature naturalistic style with the family’s appreciation for beauty and nature. On this exclusive garden tour, you will explore iconic landscapes including the Rose Garden, the estate’s historic Swimming Pool, and the contemporary gardens surrounding the Visitor Center. Along the way, you will discover recent landscape restoration projects, gain a deeper understanding of the care and stewardship required to preserve these historic gardens, and learn how Ford House continues the Ford family’s legacy through its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.
Karl Koto is the Director of Landscapes and Project Executive at Ford House. Since joining Ford House in 2014, Karl has managed many projects including the pool and Lagoon restoration, NOAA funded Ford Cove, and the construction of the new visitor center, administration building and surrounding site improvements. Karl earned his Master of Landscape Architecture and Bachelor of Science from the University of Michigan. At Ford House, Karl oversees a team of dedicated landscape professionals who provide year-round care for the estate. .