OUR TEAM

Geert Van Zanten was born in the Westland region of the Netherlands. The son of a greenhouse grower in this area famous for its horticulture, Geert gained many years of experience and knowledge constructing greenhouses in Europe. In 1995, Geert established Westland Greenhouse Solutions Inc. in St. Catharines, Ontario, which later expanded and moved to Jordan Station.

Geert realized that the innovation and cost-effectiveness of building greenhouses for more than 25 years could be adapted and utilized to construct housing units. After seeing the quality and flexibility in the design of steel structural insulated panels, Geert was motivated to launch Smart Home Designs Niagara, offering affordable design and build options for quality housing for seasonal farmworkers and as a solution for manufactured and assembled Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or tiny homes in Niagara and beyond.

In establishing Smart Home Designs Niagara, Geert wanted it to be more than just a design and build company. He believes in giving back to his local community and vulnerable communities around the world. Geert’s vision is to support the housing needs of those living in poverty through the work of Smart Home Designs Niagara.

As a former realtor in the Niagara Region, Tiffany Christie brings her vast knowledge of the Ontario housing market as well as 20 years of sales experience to Smart Home Designs Niagara. As Business Manager, Tiffany oversees the team and internal processes to ensure every step of your ADU build goes smoothly, on time, and on budget. With her strong background in Ontario’s housing market, Tiffany provides homeowners with peace of mind by guiding them through zoning bylaws, municipal permit requirements, and available ADU grant programs. Her expertise helps clients unlock the full potential of their property, from added living space to long-term equity growth. Tiffany is also in charge of business expansion into areas beyond the Niagara Region.

Born and raised in Niagara, Kim MacDougald grew up in Grimsby and now calls Beamsville home with her family. In her real estate career, she became a Certified Residential Systems Expert (CRSE), helping buyers to understand key home systems like HVAC, plumbing, roofing, and electrical. Bringing these skills into the Sales & Business Development Representative role, Kim is focused on ensuring quality customer service and support throughout the entire ADU buying journey.