HOLLANDERdesign Landscape Architects, headquartered in New York City and with a satellite office in Chicago, is a leading name in the world of landscape architecture. Known for creating elegant and timeless landscapes, the firm’s designs seamlessly blend the built environment with nature, ensuring spaces are as functional as they are beautiful.
Founded by Edmund Hollander and Maryanne Connelly in 1991, HOLLANDERdesign has grown into a preeminent practice recognized for its commitment to design excellence and environmental stewardship.
Design Philosophy: Marrying Nature and Architecture
HOLLANDERdesign embraces a philosophy rooted in the seamless integration of architecture with the natural world. The firm places a strong emphasis on understanding the local ecology, history, and cultural context of each site to create landscapes that are both site-specific and enduring.
The firm’s guiding principle, “to create spaces that reflect the needs of the people who use them and the environment they inhabit,” underpins every project. Their landscapes often incorporate native plantings, sustainable water management techniques, and site-appropriate materials, ensuring harmony with the natural surroundings.
Signature Projects
HOLLANDERdesign has an extensive portfolio of projects spanning residential estates, urban developments, cultural institutions, and hospitality spaces. Here are a few signature works that highlight their expertise:
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Hamptons Estates, Long Island, NY:
Known for their luxury residential landscapes in the Hamptons, HOLLANDERdesign has crafted private estates featuring lush gardens, serene pools, and expansive lawns that connect with the coastal environment.
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Woodland Retreat, Connecticut:
This project transformed a wooded property into a tranquil retreat with walking paths, native plantings, and strategic clearings to preserve the natural character of the site while enhancing usability.
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The Morgan Library & Museum Garden, NYC:
HOLLANDERdesign redesigned this historic space, creating an urban sanctuary that complements the architectural grandeur of the museum while offering a serene retreat for visitors.
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Chicago Residential Rooftops:
In Chicago, the firm has designed green rooftops that balance sustainability with luxury, featuring outdoor kitchens, seasonal gardens, and stunning views of the skyline.
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Urban Terraces and Courtyards:
Their work in urban environments includes courtyards and terraces for residential complexes, blending greenery with hardscapes to create pockets of calm in bustling cities.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability is at the heart of HOLLANDERdesign’s ethos. The firm integrates green infrastructure and eco-friendly practices in its landscapes to promote biodiversity and resource efficiency. Key strategies include:
- Native and Adaptive Plantings: To support local ecosystems and reduce maintenance needs.
- Stormwater Management: Utilizing rain gardens, permeable paving, and bioswales to handle water runoff sustainably.
- Energy Efficiency: Collaborating with architects and engineers to optimize shading, ventilation, and thermal regulation through thoughtful landscaping.
Their work not only beautifies but also contributes to long-term environmental health.
Awards and Recognition
HOLLANDERdesign Landscape Architects has received numerous accolades for their work, including:
- American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Awards: Recognizing their innovative design approach.
- Landscape Architecture Magazine Features: Celebrating their work as benchmarks for modern landscape design.
- Residential Excellence Awards: For their ability to craft bespoke, client-centric landscapes.
These awards underscore their leadership in the field and their commitment to excellence.
Shaping the Future of Landscape Architecture
Looking ahead, HOLLANDERdesign is poised to tackle the growing challenges of urbanization, climate change, and biodiversity loss. By leveraging advanced technology, sustainable materials, and a deep understanding of ecology, the firm aims to continue crafting spaces that enrich human lives while respecting the planet.
In a world increasingly valuing outdoor experiences and sustainable living, HOLLANDERdesign Landscape Architects exemplifies the transformative power of thoughtful landscape design. Their enduring work continues to set a gold standard for blending beauty, functionality, and environmental responsibility.
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