Meet the Landscape Designers

Conversations with New England's busiest and best landscape designers.

May/June 2012

terrence parker

terrafirma landscape architecture
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
(401) 849-5100

YEARS IN BUSINESS 16
HOW IMPORTANT IS THE USE OF NATIVE PLANT MATERIAL?
Native plants are essential for conveying a sense of place.
BEST TIP FOR DESIGNING WITH FOUR SEASONS IN MIND?
Structure the landscape so it's forms are evident all year.
HAVE NEW PRODUCTS OR TECHNOLOGIES CHANGED THE WAY YOU WORK? HOW?
Yes, “Sketch-up” programs allow easier 3-D modeling and the emphasis on sustainability is rewarding.
WHAT SPECIFIC NEW ENGLAND QUALITIES MOST INFLUENCE YOUR WORK?
The aspect of seasonal variation, color and tonal shifts in the landscape, and durability.
WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY?
Seek to create beauty, meaningful landscape experiences and ecologically sound environments for clients.

Click here to see terrafirma landscape architecture's online profile


george pellettieri

Pellettieri Associates, Inc.
Warner, New Hampshire
(603) 456-3678

YEARS IN BUSINESS 26-plus
HOW IMPORTANT IS THE USE OF NATIVE PLANT MATERIAL?
Attentive selection of appropriate plants ensures low-maintenance, sustainable landscapes.
BEST TIP FOR DESIGNING WITH FOUR SEASONS IN MIND?
Successful designs arise from reckoning with the long New England winters!
HAVE NEW PRODUCTS OR TECHNOLOGIES CHANGED THE WAY YOU WORK? HOW?
From increasingly efficient computers and innovative graphic programs, to permeable pavements, we thrive on change.
WHAT SPECIFIC NEW ENGLAND QUALITIES MOST INFLUENCE YOUR WORK?
Our creative designs are informed by New England's unparalleled historical context, distinct seasons and unique and challenging sites.
WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY?
Know your site intimately, listen attentively to your client's needs, and thoughtfully consider environmental impacts.

Click here to see Pellettieri Associates' online profile


robert marzilli

R. P. Marzilli & Company, Inc.
Medway, Massachusetts
(508) 533-8700

YEARS IN BUSINESS 25
HOW IMPORTANT IS THE USE OF NATIVE PLANT MATERIAL?
The use of plants in their natural zones is critical to healthy and long-term growth.
BEST TIP FOR DESIGNING WITH FOUR SEASONS IN MIND?
Leaf form, fall color, interesting bark and plant structure should all be part of the seasonal design process.
HAVE NEW PRODUCTS OR TECHNOLOGIES CHANGED THE WAY YOU WORK? HOW?
It will be interesting to see how the introduction of low-maintenance, low-fertilizer grass seeds work in the coming seasons.
WHAT SPECIFIC NEW ENGLAND QUALITIES MOST INFLUENCE YOUR WORK?
The varied topography encountered on most sites is always very influential.
WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY?
Collaborate with the landscape architect to surpass the client's expectations within the budget.


robert t. akroyd

Greylock Design Associates
Lenox and Boston, Massachusetts
(413) 637-8366 and (617) 398-5126

YEARS IN BUSINESS 10
HOW IMPORTANT IS THE USE OF NATIVE PLANT MATERIAL?
It is important but don't limit yourself to just that palette.
BEST TIP FOR DESIGNING WITH FOUR SEASONS IN MIND?
Look beyond plant material and look for plant material with architectural interest.
HAVE NEW PRODUCTS OR TECHNOLOGIES CHANGED THE WAY YOU WORK? HOW? 
New software allows us to communicate with out of state/country clients and be more effective communicators.
WHAT SPECIFIC NEW ENGLAND QUALITIES MOST INFLUENCE YOUR WORK?
The rolling hills of the Berkshires and the light throughout New England.
WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY?
We have a harmonious and sustainable approach to land planning and the art of place making.


john nardozza

Andover Landscape Construction, LLC
Andover, Massachusetts
(978) 475-8138

YEARS IN BUSINESS 15
HOW IMPORTANT IS THE USE OF NATIVE PLANT MATERIAL?
Utilizing indigenous plants with traditional materials allows us to create timeless, classic designs.
BEST TIP FOR DESIGNING WITH FOUR SEASONS IN MIND?
Add structure, either hardscape or plant material, that will have year-round impact.
HAVE NEW PRODUCTS OR TECHNOLOGIES CHANGED THE WAY YOU WORK? HOW?
I stick to traditional methods of construction and material choices... granite, bluestone, fieldstone walls and native plants.
WHAT SPECIFIC NEW ENGLAND QUALITIES MOST INFLUENCE YOUR WORK?
Each New England season has a color palette, so choose plants and materials carefully to harmonize with nature.
WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY?
Creating outdoor space that is both functional and beautiful that integrates with nature.

Click here to see Andover Landscape Construction's online profile


katherine field

Katherine Field and Associates
Newport, Rhode Island
(401) 848-2750

YEARS IN BUSINESS 25
BEST PLANTS FOR XERISCAPING IN NEW ENGLAND?
Hayscented ferns, sedums, bayberry, heaths and heaters.
WHAT TYPES OF MATERIALS DO YOU FAVOR FOR HARDSCAPING?
Bluestone, limestone, ricestone.
FAVORITE WINTER LANDSCAPING SOLUTION?
Bones... form and structure in space, plants and furnishings, lighting.
WHAT DOES EVERY GARDEN NEED?
Form, contextual relationships, spirit of place.
MOST RECENT NOTABLE PROJECT?
Private residence in Newport, Rhode Island.

 

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