Our Team
Our comprehensive view of landscape health is based on a design first philosophy, with a holistic view of the entire life cycle of projects. We begin with two key planning advisories. OJB*lab is the research arm of the practice and a think tank for the firm. The *lab investigates and analyzes design decisions to drive innovation in the field. The *lab works in unison with early design exploration teams to experiment, research, brand, and publish. We ask difficult questions to continually improve our process. Through the lens of ecological, environmental, infrastructural, and social aspirations, we analyze and examine environmental conditions that contribute to positive design choices.
Public Realm Services
A second vital advisory is our public realm planning specialists, studying a space’s complete potential for programming, activation and sustainable business and operations practices. Led by Principal Tara Green, we consult with municipal leaders and applicable stakeholders and create a plan for authentic and vibrant public spaces.
We work with public and private entities to preserve, repair and restore access to open space and landscape environments. By discussing operations, governance, programming and long-term activation, OJB PRS works hand in hand with clients to develop blueprints for success that balance public and private interests with social and economic equity. We believe public realm spaces must not only be beautiful, functional, and well designed; they must also be safe, easy to maintain, flexible, and inspire opportunities for building community and achieve the brand promise of the site.
Continuing Care
As a supplement to our design capabilities, our care team, led by Levi Johnson, is a maintenance and advisory service that ensures the longevity and health of landscapes. Our team is focused on how sites evolve so plants and people continue to thrive. Comprised of experienced horticulturists and plant scientists, the care team advises on strategies and regimens that support optimal conditions long after the build is complete. We often work with established maintenance teams to adapt existing care guidelines to new sites, as well as develop new protocols for landscape care.
The care team consults early in the design process to contribute knowledge of plant and soil properties to ensure a holistic view of plant curation and selection. We aim to protect the investment in landscape and maintain healthy and vibrant sites for every season. As our climate continues to change, this investment is an especially critical.