Established in 1994, the LaGuardia Design Group is a landscape architecture firm specializing in high-end residential, commercial, and institutional design. The 25-person firm based in Water Mill, NY has recently expanded to include offices in New York City and Palm Beach.
LaGuardia Design was founded in 1994 as a one-man landscape architecture firm in Southampton, New York. From the beginning, the ambition has been to create beautiful and enduring landscapes. Christopher LaGuardia, the firm’s founder, gradually grew the company, finding skilled designers to create the firm’s sustainable, simple, aesthetic environments. Presently, the firm is led by head principal, Christopher LaGuardia, and partners, Ian Hanbach, Daniel Thorp and Jane LaGuardia. The firm’s original and effective design solutions have been implemented throughout the East End of Long Island, as well as New York City, New England, Florida, the Caribbean, Sun Valley and China.
With a strong belief in creative collaboration between clients, architects, and consultants, the firm works towards expressing the best character of each site while meeting the requirements of program, schedule, and budget. The LaGuardia style and design language continues to evolve creating a brand recognized for its environmental stewardship, historic references and meticulously designed outdoor spaces. Rather than attempting to mimic nature, LDG’s goal with every design is to interpret natural processes as an artistic expression in their work. In 2013, LDG received the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) award of excellence in residential design, the highest residential award in the profession.
“We make a conscious effort to build sustainable landscapes that are not only beautiful to experience, but are integrated into the natural processes taking place on both the site and its adjacencies.” - Christopher LaGuardia, FASLA
Each project begins with a thorough analysis of the defined objective and the sensitive realities of a site and its context. We devise, test and refine a range of schemes and ideas in accordance to the objective, which helps us to achieve an appropriate fit with the client’s needs and the site.
For the past thirty years, the LaGuardia Design Group has been committed to the advancement of landscape architecture on the eastern end of Long Island. In practice, the firm strives to integrate the needs and habitat of people with the natural landscape in clear and understandable terms.
Christopher LaGuardia holds a Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Georgia. Shortly after leaving Georgia, LaGuardia began working for the internationally renowned landscape architecture firm M. Paul Friedberg & Partners Urban Design, in New York City. Afterwards LaGuardia settled in Bridgehampton, NY to work for Norman Jaffe, FAIA, a well-known architect notably known for his modern and environmentally compatible residences. The experience of working closely with architects made Christopher LaGuardia acutely aware of the complexities surrounding architecture and the desire for a landscape that not only highlights, but improves the built environment. Successful collaborations with architects, artists and designers have been a key component to the success of Mr. LaGuardia’s practice. Such collaborations have also helped raise awareness on allied professionals for the importance of hiring landscape architects early in the design process. This promotion of landscape architecture has been a major part of Christopher LaGuardia’s career and a desire he is passing to all those in his firm with hopes of leaving a vital contribution to the overall profession.
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PLA, FASLA | Principal
For 30 years, Christopher LaGuardia, RLA, FASLA, has been committed to the advancement of landscape architecture on the eastern end of Long Island. In his practice, he integrates the needs and habitat of people with the natural landscape in clear and understandable terms.
Over the years, his award-winning work has garnered local and national recognition. Mr. LaGuardia lectures widely on the social and natural influence of his design, and the profession’s value overall. Most recently, his ongoing relationship with The Cultural Landscape Foundation in Washington, D.C., has brought nationwide attention to his work.
His sensitivity to site planning integrates buildings and structures into the landscape. The quality of his work has resulted in many successful collaborations with some of the world’s best known architects and artists. Mr. LaGuardia holds a Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Georgia and is the author of the firm's recent monograph Contemporary Gardens of the Hamptons, LaGuardia Design Group 1990-2020
Email:
chris@laguardiadesign.com
PLA, ASLA | Partner
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
The Environmental Science & Forestry School at Syracuse University
Ian joined the LaGuardia Design team in 2005 after graduating with a Bachelor’s of Landscape Architecture from SUNY ESF. Since that time he has earned his NYS License while managing numerous projects, ranging from large scale residential designs to high- end luxury resort planning.
In 2021, Ian spearheaded “Seaside”, which was distinguished by the National ASLA with the Honor Award in Residential Design. He’s lectured at Cornell University, Syracuse University, as well as Madoo Conservancy in Sagaponack and has been featured on various media outlets such as HGTV.
Email:
ian@laguardiadesign.com
PLA, ASLA | Partner
Bachelor’s Degree in Landscape Architecture
Cornell University
Daniel is a registered Landscape Architect in the state of New York and a partner at the LaGuardia Design Group.
Over the past fifteen years, Daniel has led more than two hundred projects at LaGuardia Design ranging from large scale oceanfront residences to a million square foot park in eastern China. The best of which are captured in his firm’s first monologue titled ‘Contemporary Gardens of the Hamptons’, published earlier this spring. He is a member of the ASLA, sits on the Parrish Art Museum’s Landscape Pleasures committee and currently resides in Sag Harbor, NY.
Email:
dan@laguardiadesign.com
Partner
Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture
University of Georgia
Jane has been a vital member of the executive team at LaGuardia Design since 1996.
Her work spans many facets of the company including management, finance, marketing and public relations. Prior to her work at LaGuardia Design Jane taught Horticulture at a public high school, worked in the retail trade and provided consultation services for private estates.
Jane holds degrees in ornamental horticulture from Cobleskill College and a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the University of Georgia where she studied under plant guru Dr.Michael Dirr.
Jane is an associate member of the American Society of Landscape Architects.
Email:
jane@laguardiadesign.com
PLA, ASLA | Senior Project Manager
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
University of Rhode Island
Alex is a NYS Licensed Landscape Architect and joined LaGuardia Design in May of 2009. Born and raised on Eastern Long Island, Alex has acquired a deep connection and appreciation for the ecologically sensitive native landscape. He brings to the firm a thorough understanding of the landscape design process, a strong background in graphic communication techniques, and an in-depth knowledge of woody plant material and native plant communities.
While attending University, Alex was a teaching assistant for courses in plant identification and landscape design theory. He was the 2008 recipient of the Rhode Island ASLA Merit for excellence in the study of Landscape Architecture.
Outside of the office, Alex enjoys surfing, paddle boarding, and time spent at the ocean with family.
Email:
alex@laguardiadesign.com
NYC Studio Director
Carl is a Registered Landscape Architect in New York and Connecticut, with extensive experience in landscape construction management and sustainable design practices. Carl comes to LaGuardia after leading park construction and conservation initiatives for a private non-profit which included projects in New York, Maine, South Carolina, Chile, Uruguay, and Argentina.
An active member of the ASLA, Carl is currently the president of the New York Chapter. He joined LaGuardia in 2022 to lead the New York studio in Manhattan where he lives with his wife.
Email:
carl@laguardiadesign.com
PLA, ASLA | Senior Associate
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
The Environmental Science & Forestry School at Syracuse University
Sarah graduated Magna Cum Laude from SUNY-ESF in May 2016, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. While at SUNY-ESF, Sarah traveled to Christchurch, New Zealand to complete her capstone on temporary transitional projects. She is interested in integrating her knowledge of environmental sustainability and resiliency into beautiful and meaningful designs.
A native to Long Island, Sarah grew up in Lake Grove, NY. Prior to joining LaGuardia Design in October 2016, Sarah participated in two internships in New York City, where she gained firsthand experience in high end residential design and city planning. Sarah is actively pursuing New York State licensure.
Email:
SDeGray@laguardiadesign.com
RLA, ASLA, LEED Green Associate | Senior Associate
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
Cornell University
Matthew’s interest in landscape architecture stemmed from a love of the outdoors and an interest in construction. He attended Cornell University and graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. Soon after, he joined the LaGuardia team and obtained New York State licensure in 2017. Most recently Matthew became an accredited LEED Green Associate, designating proficiency in today's sustainable design, construction and operations standards. While working at LaGuardia Design, Matthew has come to appreciate the peaceful and restorative effects of a well thought out landscape - ultimately creating spaces where users can relax and unwind.
A native to Long Island, Matthew grew up in Huntington, NY and is very familiar with the local environment. In his free time, he enjoys vegetable gardening, fishing, and working on his house in Hampton Bays.
Email:
matthew@laguardiadesign.com
PLA, ASLA | Senior Associate
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
The Environmental Science & Forestry School at Syracuse University
John joined the LaGuardia Design team in 2017, after spending multiple years working in the design-build industry on the East End of Long Island. He received his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from SUNY Environmental Science and Forestry in 2013. While residing abroad, John completed his thesis study on the socio-cultural factors that define public space in Barcelona, Spain. This intensive study allowed him to gain a special appreciation for the intrinsic connection between people and space in landscape architecture.
John has been involved in and managed, large scale residential construction projects throughout the New York area. He is a licensed Landscape Architect and currently resides in Hampton Bays, NY.
Email:
John@laguardiadesign.com
PLA, ASLA | Associate
Master's Degree in Landscape Architecture
Cornell University
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
Clemson University
Thackston is a graduate of Clemson University, where he received a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. After working in Boston, MA as a landscape designer for Crowley Cottrell he went on to pursue a Masters of Landscape Architecture from Cornell University. Thackston’s education and professional experiences have instilled in him a passion and love for design and a belief in the transformative power of good design.
Thackston’s work has been recognized by awards such as the American Society of Landscape Architects Student Honor Award in 2015, a Boston Society of Landscape Architects Honor Award in 2016, and was named a 2016 University Olmsted Scholar by the Landscape Architecture Foundation.
Originally a native of South Carolina, Thackston draws inspiration from the rural landscapes that surrounded him growing up and influenced his pursuit of Landscape Architecture. Thackston now calls Sag Harbor home and enjoys exploring Long Island’s diverse and beautiful landscapes.
PLA, ASLA | Senior Associate
Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture, Rutgers University
Jonathan Misrahi is a Licensed Landscape Architect in the state of New Jersey and has joined LaGuardia Design Group as a Senior Associate in the NYC Studio.
An ambitious emerging professional, Jonathan brings over 5 years of experience working on both public and private projects. He has a background in utilizing emerging technologies and nature-based solutions to deliver positive outcomes for his clients. He also advocates for the profession of Landscape Architecture as a volunteer with the NJ Chapter of ASLA, holding various leadership positions throughout his career.
Jonathan earned his Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from Rutgers University with honors, having received recognitions that include receiving the prestigious George H. DeBoer Travel Prize for research of the bicycle infrastructure network in Minneapolis, MN. He began to hone his leadership skills as NJASLA Student Chapter President, where he engaged student members and organized a PARKing Day Installation in New Brunswick, NJ.
Jonathan is also an avid home cook, using global recipes to connect with his cultural heritage and to learn more about the communities around him.
Email:
JMisrahi@laguardiadesign.com
Public Relations
Charlotte has just recently officially joined the LaGuardia Design team. After spending her childhood weekends walking around job sites and garden tours, it only seemed natural for her to take a more active role in the office.
In 2014 Charlotte graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Education and Psychology from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA. Upon graduation Charlotte returned home to Sag Harbor to pursue her career as a yoga instructor. She has recently completed her Master’s Degree in Clinical Nutrition and has a keen interest in helping people pursue their health goals. Charlotte's Thrive East Nutrition explores Integrative and Clinical Nutrition standards, and her office is based out of Water Mill. When she is not meeting with clients, Charlotte spends her time at LaGuardia Design managing the social media accounts and handling various office projects.
Full Time Employment & Internship Opportunities
Full Time Employment
LaGuardia Design Group is always interested in receiving employment applications. Upon occasion, positions at different levels of experience become available.
Internship Opportunities
LaGuardia Design Group offers internships to those studying Landscape Architecture, and has hosted students from top university programs from around the country. This is an opportunity to work in a professional setting, gaining experience by collaborating with clients, industry professionals, and the experienced landscape architects at LDG.
All interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and portfolio by email.
Please limit PDF files to 10MB.
Email:
info@laguardiadesign.com
Associate
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
The Environmental Science & Forestry School at Syracuse University
During his last year at SUNY ESF in 2019, Josue spent a full semester in the San Francisco Bay area studying the west coast historic and contemporary residential landscapes of Thomas Dolliver Church, Garret Eckbo, Andrea Cochran and Bernard Trainor. He completed his thesis study under the guidance and supervision of Emeritus Professor Marc Treib, a renowned modern landscape architecture historian and critic, who has written most of the literature about modern landscape architecture. This study allowed Josue to better understand the main design axioms that compose a modern residential landscape design.
Growing up on the East End of Long Island allowed Josue to develop a deep appreciation for high end residential design. Josue spent his high school and college summers working on the East End learning from various crafts and fields in residential design and development. In addition, Josue completed an internship with LaGuardia Design in the summer of 2016.
During his free time Josue enjoys working out, learning new creative skills, and spending time with his family.
Email:
josue@laguardiadesign.com
Billing
Lauren is a valuable member of the LaGuardia Design Team. She manages the firm's billing and book-keeping, and is always coming up with new ways to help the firm financially.
Email:
lauren@laguardiadesign.com
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Bachelor's Degree in Fine Art & Photography
University of Delaware
Kerry graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in Fine Art & Photography. During her college years, a study abroad trip with Semester at Sea, a floating campus, would spark a lifelong passion for travel.
After graduating college, she lived abroad in Asia, followed by several years in Manhattan and has now made her way back to Southampton, where she was born and raised. This time away has only made her more appreciative of the natural beauty of the east end and all the scenic views and endless coastlines it has to offer.
Kerry began working for LaGuardia Design in September of 2020 as the Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Her responsibilities include assisting with advertisements, website, social events, as well as various creative & administrative tasks around the office.
Email:
kerry@laguardiadesign.com
Associate
Master's Degree in Landscape Architecture
Cornell University
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture and Urban Design
Bilkent University
Rambod graduated in 2016 from Bilkent University in Turkey, where he received his bachelor’s degree of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design. During his undergraduate study, he gained experience working on different projects in almost 10 different cities across Turkey. He is originally from Iran, and having grown up in an environment where ancient architecture and the central importance of the garden exists alongside rapidly growing urban centers, it seemed natural that he would focus on Urban Design and Landscape Architecture. He went on to pursue his interest and recently completed a Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture at Cornell University. He has always been passionate about Project Management and Community Engagement, having pursued these topics as his concentration at Cornell.
Rambod completed winter and summer internships with LaGuardia Design Group, and joined the LDG team as an associate in February 2020.
Email:
rambod@laguardiadesign.com
Associate
Master's Degree in Landscape Architecture
Cornell University
Bachelor's Degree in Architecture and Environmental Design
University at Buffalo
Justin is a graduate of University at Buffalo, where he received a Bachelor’s in Architecture and Environmental Design. Immediately after graduation, he went on to pursue a Master’s of Landscape Architecture from Cornell University. Justin has interned with LaGuardia Design Group during the winter and summer of 2019 and will be joining the team full-time after graduation in 2020. Justin’s education and professional experiences in both Architecture and Landscape Architecture have instilled in him a passion and love for incorporating built systems into natural environments.
Justin has also been recognized by awards such as the AN 2018 Best of Design Awards by the Architect’s Newspaper, and his collaboration with SCAPE and their Public Sediment for Alameda Creek team.
A native to Southern New York, Justin grew up in Sloatsburg, NY and is very familiar with the local environment. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, swimming with sharks, snowboarding, and any thrill-seeking activities.
Email:
justin@laguardiadesign.com
Associate
Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture
Cornell University
Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning & Design
University of Tehran
Sama graduated from University of Tehran with a degree in Urban Planning & Design in 2016. During her last year of undergraduate studies, she fell in love with landscape architecture and moved to the United States to pursue a master’s in landscape architecture at Cornell University. After Graduating from Cornell in 2019, Sama spent a year working with multidisciplinary design teams on public landscape projects in New York City. Sama’s education and professional experience have instilled in her a passion for the intricacies in landscape design and the coalescence of the natural and cultivated landscapes.
Sama finds inspiration from her travels across countries and loves to find the stories behind each landscape. In her free time, Sama enjoys figure skating, dancing, yoga, and cycling.
Email:
sama@laguardiadesign.com
Associate
Bachelor's of Science in Architecture
University of San Carlos
Israeli is an Architecture Graduate from the University of San Carlos in the Philippines.
Her 7 years work experience have honed her design and technical skills, evolving her specializations on custom development and infill projects.
Joining Laguardia Design Group in July of 2021, Israeli uses her technical and design expertise, as well as her project and client management skills to be a great asset to the team.
In her spare time, Israeli enjoys yoga, gardening, biking, freediving and spending time with her dogs.
Email:
israeli@laguardiadesign.com
Associate
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
The Ohio State University
Parker graduated in the spring of 2020 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Landscape Architecture. Soon after, he joined LaGuardia Design Group and moved out of Ohio for the first time.
He was interested in the unique and abundant architecture of the Hamptons as well as the fitting landscapes that accompanied it. During the summer of 2019, Parker interned in Southampton, solidifying his plans to move to New York full time. Through his love for nature photography, hiking, and design, Parker stumbled upon the profession right before college and has been dedicated to the field of landscape architecture ever since. He believes that the natural aesthetic, incorporated with environmentalism, and functionality creates the most inspiring designs.
In his free time, Parker likes to play sports, explore local sites, take pictures, and socialize with friends. His fondness for photography has led him to travel the country to national parks out west in search of the best hikes and beautiful views.
Email:
parker@laguardiadesign.com
Associate
Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Architecture
The Environmental Science & Forestry School at Syracuse University
Bryan received his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in 2022. He completed his senior thesis study on contemporary biodiversity management in San Francisco. The study was a product of his interests in native plant community design and ecosystem services.
Growing up in the valleys of central New York, Bryan developed an appreciation for the natural landscape. He pursued landscape architecture as it combines his passion for design and environmental science. During the years before joining the office, he was able to travel abroad to countries such as Spain, Italy, and Brazil. He further developed his appreciation for different cultures including their history, language and food. His experiences have influenced his understanding of landscape design.
Outside of the office he enjoys experiencing the outdoors, pursuing creative outlets, and planning his next trip abroad. He is excited to join a team of passionate individuals on the forefront of contemporary landscape design.
Email:
bryan@laguardiadesign.com
Associate | LEED AP BD+C
Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture
Technological Institute of the Philippines
Severo has over twenty years of experience in Architecture and Landscape Architecture. He's participated in a wide range of large scale projects in Southeast Asia and China from preliminary Conceptual Design stage to Design Development stage through Working Drawings.
He has a broad experience in large scale projects ranging from Community Parks, Mixed-Use Commercial Development, Wetland Parks, Resort Hotels and High-End Residential Development. As a LEED- Accredited Professional he's able to integrate sustainable principles into the design projects. Joining LaGuardia Design Group in 2023, his solid architectural background, which fosters an artistic and technical insight in Landscape Design and Master Planning, will be a great asset to the team.
Email:
severo@laguardiadesign.com
Associate
Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture, Harvard University
Bachelor’s Degree in Urban and Regional Studies, Cornell University
Angela combines her background in urban studies, placemaking, and landscape architecture to bring a dynamic understanding of social and ecological contexts in the built environment. She is passionate about creating vibrant, healthy, and meaningful landscape spaces and has joined LaGuardia as an Associate in the NYC Studio.
She grew up in Boulder, CO and Mexico City, two mountain settings with distinct approaches to urban and landscape design. These early years instilled in her a fascination in the intersection of urban and environmental systems, as well as the transformative role of design in these relationships. Angela holds a Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture from Harvard University Graduate School of Design (2021) and a Bachelor’s in Urban and Regional Studies from Cornell University (2016).
Previously, she worked in the non-profit sector focusing on design and creative placemaking in rural America.
She enjoys hiking, analog photography printing, textile design, and experimental electronic music.
Email:
angela@laguardiadesign.com
Jager is the newest member of our firm. He is a Rhodesian Ridgeback, a dog breed known as the "renaissance hound," historically used as hunting dogs in South Africa.
Associate
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
College of Architecture, University of the Philippines – Diliman
Arnie graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of the Philippines - Diliman. She is a current member of the Philippine Association of Landscape Architects (PALA) and International Federation of Landscape Architects - Asia Pacific Region (IFLA-APR).
Joining Laguardia Design Group in January of 2023, Arnie brings her many years of experience in landscape architecture to the company. Her design knowledge, project management skills along with 3D and rendering experience, make her a great asset to LDG. Her ultimate goal is to create beautiful landscapes and outdoor spaces for people to be together and enjoy.
Email:
arnie@laguardiadesign.com
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