Our Mission
Founded in 1990, site design group, ltd. (site) is an award-winning landscape architecture, urban design, and architecture firm based in Chicago, Illinois.
We are recognized by our ability to visualize and communicate innovative design concepts and spatial experiences throughout the design process. We provide professional design services to architects, engineers, municipalities, corporations, and institutions throughout Chicago, the United States, and Asia.
With every project and every client, we strive to think outside the box to engage and excite people with who we are and what we do. We are constantly looking to other disciplines and new collaborators for unique ideas, new materials, and leading-edge technologies to improve the way we work and play.
Our Services
- Landscape Architecture
- Urban Design
- Planning
- Architecture
- Project Management
- Construction Administration
- Amenity Space Design
- Art Installations and Fountain Design
- Campus Planning
- Commercial, Retail, and Mixed-Use
- Community Identity
- Green Roofs and Roof Decks
- Healthcare and Healing Gardens
- Institutional and Libraries
- Interior Gardens
- Natural Play Spaces
- Parks and Playgrounds
- Placemaking
- Public Involvement
- Public Plazas
- Recreation and Athletic Fields
- Schools and Nurseries
- Streetscapes and Transportation Planning
- Sustainable Design
- Universities and Higher Education
Meet the Team
ABIGAIL POTTER
Abigail is on the Technical Team at site. She has a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Virginia Tech, with minors in Sociology and Horticulture. Abigail is passionate about community-driven design and creating equitable spaces for all. In addition, she has a strong interest in advocating for the arts and engaging with all facets of the design world. Originally from New Hampshire, Abigail grew up exploring the outdoors and major cities of New England. Abigail is an avid walker, enjoys watching baseball games (go Red Sox!), and attending live concerts.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture with minors in Sociology and Horticulture, 2021,
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
ASHLEY MANNIX, PLA
Ashley is a Technical Manager at site, with experience as a team leader and construction manager at multiple international design firms. She is a Licensed Landscape Architect in Florida and New York. Over her ten years of professional experience, Ashley has worked on local and international projects at various scales from early conceptual design through construction administration; bridging design to documentation and implementation.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2014,
Kansas State University, KS
Study in Landscape Architecture, 2013,
Centro Studi, Orvieto, Italy
Registration/Certification
Registered Landscape Architect, Florida and New York
Professional Affiliations
Contact
ashley.mannix@site-design.com
BRADLEY MCCAULEY, PLA, FASLA, CDT
Brad is the Managing Principal at site, who specializes in construction detailing and contract documentation. Through Brad’s extensive knowledge in transforming designs into buildable projects, he has helped facilitate numerous award-winning public spaces. His work includes urban waterfronts, streetscapes, residential developments, urban parks, playgrounds, and open space design in both the public and private sectors.
Brad’s expertise in construction documentation, detailing, and business operations has led to more carefully crafted, iconic, and well-loved public spaces throughout Chicago and the Midwest. Brad is actively involved in a number of professional and service organizations, including serving as the President-Elect for the American Society of Landscape Architects and a member of the Stewardship Council of The Cultural Landscape Foundation.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2007,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, States of Illinois, Alabama, Arizona, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin
Certified Document Technologist
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Fellow and President-Elect
ASLA Illinois Chapter, Trustee and Past President
American Institute of Architects (AIA), National Allied Member
The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Stewardship Council
Chicago Architecture Foundation
Consortium for Design and Construction Careers
Construction Specification Institute
University of Illinois Landscape Architecture Department Alumni Resource Committee
BRENDA KIESGEN
Brenda Kiesgen is a Senior Project Manager at site with a passion for social spaces that integrally fit into the context of the urban fabric. Her skills in site analysis, communication, and aesthetic considerations within the collaborative design process produce unique, vivid spaces which culminate in the creation of enduring solutions. Brenda’s education as an architect allows her to envision the creation of spaces through the creative juxtaposition of material and form, while her research of innovative sustainable technologies lays the foundation of an integrated design process.
Along with her husband, Brenda enjoys raising their two children, a pit bull, and chickens in the small northern community of Wadsworth. Brenda's love of production keeps her busy outside of work tending to her garden, building furniture, and designing stationary.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture, 2006,
University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
CAMILLE APPLEWHITE, PLA, ASLA
Camille joined site in 2021 as a Project Manager assigned to the Chicago Department of Transportation’s Streetscape and Sustainable Design Program. Camille has a Bachelor of Science degree in Landscape Architecture with a minor in Studio Art and Design from Purdue University. Her professional experience includes working for a range of Chicago-based design firms. She is also the Co-Found of BlackSpace Chicago, a collective of Black designers and creatives in the fields that influence the built environment. Camille is actively involved in the Illinois Chapter of ALSA and currently serves as the Service Chair after previously participating in the Equity + Design panel (2019) and A Millennial Manifesto (2018). She is an active volunteer with a wide range of organizations, including Chicago Mobile Makers and the Diversity and Inclusion Committee for the Windy City Rollers, where she has skated since 2018.
Education
Bachelor of Science, Landscape Architecture, Minor in Studio Art and Design, 2013,
Purdue University
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Indiana
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Illinois Chapter Service Chair
Contact
CARL ALLEN
Carl Allen joins site as a member of the Technical Team. He has seven years of architecture experience in residential, retail, and commercial projects. He has a well-rounded background in Revit and construction documentation and brings an interest in the history and other forces that shape our built environment. Carl has lived in Chicago for six years and originally comes from Tacoma, Washington. In his free time, he enjoys computer gaming, running, and Seattle Mariners baseball.
Education
Bachelor of Architectural Design, 2015,
University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
CARLOS MOTIN
Education
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
Contact
carlos.motin@site-design.com
CHASE MORGAN, PLA, ASLA
Chase is a Design Manager, Horticultural Specialist at site with a focus on planting design. Prior to joining site in 2021, he successfully implemented his horticultural talents on a wide range of project types and sizes including green roofs, living walls, urban parks, and intimate gardens. Chase has a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. During his senior year, he studied planting design at the University of Sheffield in England which inspired him to pursue a niche horticultural role within the industry. Outside of work, Chase enjoys experiencing everything Chicago has to offer - restaurants, neighborhood festivals, concerts, and more. He is an avid traveler and enjoys visiting botanical gardens where he can geek out and get inspired for the next project.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2012,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Landscape Architect, Illinois
Professional Affiliations
CLARE JOHNSON
Clare Johnson joins site as a Project Manager and brings over twelve years of experience in related fields. She has worked in public gardens, commercial landscapes, and residential design and build. Her specialties include therapeutic and accessible gardens, food production gardens, and project administration. She graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and holds a certification in Healthcare Garden Design. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, hiking, and trying all the delicious restaurants in Chicago.
Education
Certificate of Merit, Healthcare Garden Design, 2011,
Joseph Regenstein School of the Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago, IL
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2010,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
Contact
d (312) 427-7240 x 586 o (312) 427-7240
CODY AXNESS, PLA, ASLA, LEED AP
Cody Axness is a Landscape Architect and Senior Project Manager at site. He has over 15 years of experience supporting and leading planning and design efforts of a diverse range multi-disciplinary project types involving analysis, land-use planning, master planning, and site development. His work reflects a dedication to understanding the potential of a site and finding ways to thoughtfully integrate the built and natural environments in authentic, meaningful ways in response the programmatic and functional requirements of a project.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecure, 2006,
North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
Registration/Certification
Professional Landscape Architect, Wisconsin
LEED Accredited Professional
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects
ASLA Wisconsin Chapter, Past President
DEREK NEANG
Derek Neang is on the Project Team at site. He recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from the Ohio State University, where he was also an Ohio National Guard Staff Sergeant (KC-135 aircraft mechanic). Derek is interested in designing spaces that develop social and economic equity within communities. Outside of work, Derek is a Judo green belt, Thai kickboxing (Muay Thai) practitioner, and is interested in philosophy, powerlifting, film, and photography.
Education
Bachelor of Science, Landscape Architecture, 2022,
Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
ELLE TOMPKINS
Elle joined Site Design Group as an Executive Assistant in 2024. She previously served as the Operations Manager at a real estate and construction company, overseeing day-to-day operations and optimizing efficiency. Before that, Elle held key leadership roles at a Silicon Valley software company where her expertise lay in driving operational success and fostering a strong internal culture. Earlier in her career, Elle worked in the events industry, where she played a key role in organizing large-scale community and artisan events. There, she honed her skills in event planning, logistics, and vendor relations, helping to foster creative connections. Outside of work, Elle enjoys knitting, crochet, comedy, jumping in the lake, and movies, and has a love for the arts and community events around Chicago.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, 2015,
The College of Wooster
Master of Arts in Art History, Theory, and Criticism, 2018,
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
ELSA STOFFEL
Elsa is on the Project Team at site. She joined the team full time in 2020 after working as an intern in 2019. She has a Master of Landscape Architecture with a minor in Horticulture from Kansas State University. Growing up surrounded by the Forest Preserves of Chicagoland, Elsa has gained a great passion for native planting design and strives to provide equitable access to greenspace for all. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time at her family lake house, camping, tickling the ivories, and playing board games.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2020,
Kansas State University
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
ERNEST C. WONG, PLA, FASLA, APA
As the Founding Principal and President of site, Ernest C. Wong has been instrumental in the evolution of the firm as a multi-cultural cutting edge design entity and fostering the landscape architecture profession in Chicago. In managing the firm more than 30 years, site has established a reputation for creative design solutions, and developing thoughtful, community-oriented urban spaces.
Ernie serves on the board of numerous public service organizations and professional juries including the Driehaus Award for Architectural Excellence in Community Design, City Parks Alliance, and as the Chair of the Chicago Landmarks Commission. In 2013, Ernie was elevated to the American Society of Landscape Architects Council of Fellows for his exceptional leadership, extensive community service, and outreach work. He recently served as the keynote speaker for the Florida ASLA Conference, the Oregon ASLA Design Symposium, TEDxChicago, and a juror for the inaugural AIA Roberta Feldman Socially Just Design Award. In 2021, Ernie was awarded the ASLA Community Service Award and the Daniel H. Burnham Distinguished Service Award from the Lambda Alpha International Land Economics Society Ely Chapter.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 1985,
Michigan State University, Lansing, MI
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Illinois,
#157000818, since 1992
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Fellow
American Planning Association
Chicago Architecture Foundation, Public Programs Committee
Chicago Botanic Garden, Board of Directors
Chicago Committee on Special Events, Cultural Affairs and Recreation
Chinese American Service League, Former Chairman
City Parks Alliance, Board
Commission on Chicago Landmarks, Commissioner and Chair
Economic Club of Chicago
Lambda Alpha
Near South Planning Board
President’s Council of the Museum of Science and Industry
Urban Land Institute
YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, Board member
GRETCHEN GRAVENSTEIN, PLA, ASLA
Gretchen Gravenstein is a Technical Manager and Landscape Architect at site. With five years of professional experience, she joins the firm with expertise in producing high-quality design documents for projects ranging from residential to civic and large-scale commercial projects. She has strong technical and graphic skills, with an emphasis on construction documentation. Gretchen has a Master of Landscape Architecture from Kansas State University. Outside of work, her hobbies include traveling, photography, and visiting National Parks.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2014,
Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Illinois
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects
Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects
HANA ISHIKAWA, AIA, ASLA Affiliate
Hana Ishikawa is the Design Principal at site, often leading the design process with complex, yet thoughtful ideas. Hana was elected and is currently serving on the City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development's inaugural Committee on Design. Hana’s projects, more than 100 of them throughout her tenure, have ranged from master planning of modern entertainment complexes, traditional commercial interiors, and historic streetscapes to contemporary urban parks.
Constantly looking for visually enticing environments from the rigid structure of classical aesthetics to cutting-edge modern design, whether it is conceptual design or construction details, she enjoys merging innovation and logic into all aspects of design. Born into a family of designers in Tokyo, with her unique educational history and eclectic job history at many different types of firms, her experience is diverse. Hana is fluent in Japanese and has forgotten most of her French.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture, 2006,
Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL (with prior studies at Carnegie Mellon University)
Registration/Certification
Registered Architect, State of Illinois
Professional Affiliations
American Institute of Architects (AIA), Associate
American Society of Landscape Architects, Affiliate
City of Chicago Committee on Design
HEATHER FAIVRE, PLA
Heather is a Technical Manager at site. She is skilled at focusing on public facing construction projects, such as parks, playgrounds, and streetscapes. She also understands diverse planning and design assignments within the public realm, such as pop-up plazas, logo design, signage, site planning, corridor planning, and neighborhood master plans. Heather has a great understanding of each phase of projects, including: public outreach, early visioning plans, design development, construction documentation, cost estimating, and construction administration. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2012,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
HINAL SHAH
Hinal Shah is on the Operations Team at site. She earned a Bachelor of Commerce from Gujarat University, a Diploma in Business Administration with a concentration in financial services from Bow Valley College, and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Human Resources from DePaul University. Originally from India, Hinal relocated to the US from Canada in 2021. Hinal has experience with invoicing, client interaction, and purchase orders at her family's interior design business. Her hobbies include traveling, hiking, art, and crafts.
Education
Bow Valley College, 2018,
Business Administration, Major in Finance, Calgary, Canada
Gujarat University, 2016,
Bachelor of Commerce, Gujarat, India
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
JEFF TROST, PLA, ASLA, CDT
Jeff is a Field Project Manager at site with a strong background in construction administration. Jeff has a degree in landscape architecture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, with field expertise in landscape maintenance, plant identification, plant healthcare, and irrigation, most recently serving as the field technician responsible for the Village of Tinley Park’s Emerald Ash Borer removal program.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2012,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
Registration/Certification
Professional Landscape Architect, Illinois
Certified Document Technologist
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects
JEFFREY REYNA, PLA, ASLA
Education
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
Contact
jeffrey.reyna@site-design.com
JENNA JONES, ASLA, LEED GREEN ASSOCIATE
Jenna Jones is a Principal at site. Her educational background in marketing communications and landscape architecture with a focus on ecological design has led to a strong passion for exploring the relationship between people and nature. Communication of design and the creative process is an integral part of her role at site. Jenna brings a deep commitment to community outreach, the balance of culture and ecology, and sustainable design practices to all her projects, which range from master planning to sustainable streetscapes, and community-oriented open spaces. She believes in a contextual approach to design, where each project is responsive to its surroundings, becoming a valued place for residents and visitors alike.
A native Minnesotan, Jenna splits her time working between Chicago and Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Education
Multichannel Marketing Communications Certificate, 2010,
DePaul University, Kellstadt Graduate School of Business, Chicago, IL
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2009,
University of Michigan, School of Natural Resources and Environment, Ann Arbor, MI
Bachelor of Environmental Design, 2006,
University of Minnesota, College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, Minneapolis, MN
Registration/Certification
LEED Green Associate since 2012
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects
JESSIE KING, PLA, ASLA
Jessie King joined site as a Project Manager in 2021. She holds a Master of Landscape Architecture from Kansas State University. Her previous work experience includes projects around the Midwest, such as the Fort Wayne Promenade Park, CPS Space to Grow Schoolyards, The Wild Mile, Macy's Flagship Roofdeck, and more. Her passions within the industry include environmentally responsible and equitable spaces, planting design, and riverfront parks. Jessie is CLARB certified and is a registered Landscape Architect in Illinois, and currently serves as the co-chair for the Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects Awards Committee. Outside of work, she enjoys camping, hiking, fiber arts, and rock climbing. At a young age, her family would road trip to different National Parks throughout the country. Since moving to Chicago, she has missed hiking the Konza prairie in the flint hills of Kansas.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2013,
Kansas State University
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Illinois
CLARB Certified Landscape Architect
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Illinois Chapter Awards Committee Co-Chair
JIAJING CHEN
As a Design Associate, Jiajing brings a strong skillset in visualization and production. Before joining site in 2016, she served as an intern at several design firms, and was the joint winner of the 2013 Yuan Ye award in landscape architecture from Tongji University. You can often find Jiajing with a camera in her hand.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture,
Tongji University, China
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
Sigma Lambda Alpha
JUSTIN ROSSMAN, AIA
Justin (JD) Rossman is site's Technical Director. He has degrees in Civil Engineering and Architecture, with a minor in Construction Management. This background has led him to work on many types of projects ranging from streetscapes, playgrounds, high rise amenity spaces, and everything in between. His technical experience and attention to detail allow him to translate designs from sketches into construction documents and through construction administration. JD is currently working towards his architectural license and professional engineering license in civil engineering. He is currently managing several projects, including the CPS Space to Grow projects at Cook and Fernwood Elementary Schools, which incorporate stormwater management, outdoor learning, and active play.
Outside of the office, JD enjoys playing beach volleyball, where he met his wife, hiking and exploring nature, spending time with family, and nerding out playing board games with friends.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, 2018,
Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, Illinois
Bachelor of Architecture, Minor in Construction Management , 2007,
Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
American Institute of Architects
KARA DURKIN, PLA
Kara Durkin is a Field Project Manager at site. She graduated with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Michigan State University in 2014 and has developed a strong background in construction administration during her ten years of experience. In her free time, Kara enjoys catching as many Cubs games as possible, playing a round or two of golf, and, most importantly, spending as much time as she can with her husband and two daughters.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2014,
Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Illinois
Professional Affiliations
KARI LIN AASS
Kari Lin is the Director of Finance at site. Her educational background in International Business Administration with a minor in Film Studies has allowed her to stay focused in finance and accounting while thriving in creative environments.
She started in financial services working with businesses in various industries in Paris before moving to Chicago in 2014. Here, she began her journey into the design world, working closely alongside architects and designers and bridging the gap between design and numbers. She has extensive experience with financial reporting, project accounting, process standardization, and budgeting.
Kari Lin is fluent in French and Norwegian. In her free time, she enjoys walking and discovering the city; you can usually find her outside in Lincoln Park or by the lake.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in International Business Administration, 2009,
American University of Paris, Paris, France
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
KATY KARL, LEED Green Associate
Katy is part of the Technical Team at site. She holds a dual master’s degree in architecture and urban design from Washington University in St. Louis, where she focused on community-oriented, place-based design, as well as a bachelor’s degree in architectural studies from the University of Pittsburgh. Currently, she is pursuing her architectural license.
Katy has lead volunteers on construction sites through Habitat for Humanity. She also brings valuable experience from an architectural firm that specializes in designing buildings for Chicago-area non-profits, where she worked from Schematic Design through Construction Administration.
Originally from the Philadelphia suburbs, Katy spent her childhood exploring nature along the Delaware River and in the Pocono Mountains, sparking her lifelong love for the outdoors, from camping and skiing to canoeing and boating. Outside of work, Katy enjoys yoga, crafting, and painting. When she’s not traveling, she relaxes at home with her husband and their two cats.
Education
Master of Architecture and Urban Design Dual Degree, 2020,
Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO
Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies, 2015,
University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
Registration/Certification
U.S. Green Building Council, LEED Green Associate
Professional Affiliations
LUCY CHAVEZ
Lucy is on the Marketing + Communications Team at site. She holds a Bachelor of Design in Architecture from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Science in Data Science, specialized in Marketing. Her interdisciplinary approach enriches her work, resolving impactful outcomes that blend design aesthetics with analytical depth. Outside of her professional endeavors, Lucy can be found eating at one of Chicago’s many ramen spots, playing board games with friends, or on leisurely strolls with her canine companion, Henry.
Education
Master of Science in Data Science, Marketing Concentration, 2024,
DePaul University, Chicago, IL
Bachelor of Design in Architecture, 2021,
University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
MARIA GRINA, RLA, ASLA
Maria joins site as a Technical Manager. She strives to create spaces that inspire joy. Originally from Minnesota, Maria has a deep admiration for how the landscape changes through the seasons. She brings to each project a passion for using contextual materials, celebrating the beauty of plants, and exploring ways to experience water.
She has spent the last five years living and working in Philadelphia, where she contributed her talents and skills to a range of projects in the U.S. and abroad, including universities, U.S. Embassies, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, large public parks, corporate campuses, and individual private gardens.
Outside of work, she can be found exploring the woods and waters around Milwaukee with her dog Snoozi Suzi.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2018,
University of Minnesota, Minnesota
Bachelor of Fine Art & Biology, 2008,
Lewis & Clark College, Oregon
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Illinois
Professional Affiliations
Contact
maria.grina@site-design.com
MARINA YANKOVA
Marina Yankova is an Accounting Associate at site with seven years of experience in accounting. Her educational background includes an Accounting Assistant Certificate and Bookkeeper Certificate from Harper College. Marina is extremely passionate about health, fitness, and self-improvement. She is a problem solver and team player, and is passionate about motivating others. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time reading, dancing, and spending time outdoors with her family doing everything from beach days to skiing.
Education
Accounting Assistant Certificate, 2019,
Harper College
Bookkeeping Certificate, 2019,
Intuit QuickBooks
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
MARISELA LUJAN, ASLA
Marisela is on the Technical Team at site. She has diverse experience, including designing high-end residential buildings and construction administration in the United States and Mexico, where she is originally from. She enjoys advocating for minorities while working on public projects because they significantly impact individuals and communities. Outside work, she enjoys yoga, swimming, skateboarding, camping, exploring Chicago, and traveling.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2020,
Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana
Bachelor of Architecture, 2016,
Universidad Autonoma de Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
MARK JIRIK, PLA, ASLA, LEED AP, CERTIFIED ARBORIST
Mark is the Director of Horticulture at site. As a generalist and landscape architect, his experience covers a wide range of project types and sizes, including master plans, parks, schools, natural areas, and streetscapes. As a specialist and arborist, his expertise lies in arboriculture and horticulture. Mark oversees planting design at site and co-teaches the LA 565: Ecology + Materials: Plants & Planting course at the Illinois Institute of Technology. Outside the office, Mark enjoys plants (obviously), cycling, photography, world travel, and exploring the great outdoors.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture with a minor in Horticulture, 2009,
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Illinois
ISA Certified Arborist
LEED Accredited Professional
Construction Document Technologist
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Illinois Chapter Advocacy Chair
University of Illinois Landscape Architecture Department Alumni Resource Committee
Construction Specification Institute
Illinois Institute of Technology, M.L.A.+U. LA565 Professor
University of Illinois Chicago, Tree Care Committee
Illinois Invasive Species Council, Terrestrial Plants Committee
MEJAY GULA
As a Senior Project Manager at site, Mejay Gula focuses on different scales of landscape and urban design projects, employing innovative engagement strategies to promote design collaboration. Mejay is committed to advocating for environments that foster thriving communities, believing that urban design rooted in trust and active listening is essential to realizing client visions that cultivate place and belonging. In addition to her role at site, Mejay is the founder of the Tender House Project, a collaborative initiative with local organizations to activate Chicago’s underutilized bridgehouses. Through partnerships with the city and community groups, she envisions these neglected structures transforming into a vibrant civic and cultural network, breathing new life into the Chicago River and its surrounding areas.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture, 2004,
Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, Illinois
Postgraduate Certificate in Architecture and Community Engagement, 2006,
Archeworks, Chicago, Illinois
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
MELISSA HOHENSEE
Melissa Hohensee joins site as a Field Horticultural Associate, contributing to both our Horticultural and Field Teams. Melissa received a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture with a minor in Natural Resource Conservation from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Before joining site, Melissa gained valuable experience as a Project Manager and Landscape Designer at a design-build landscape contractor.
Growing up traveling around the U.S. sparked a love of national parks, native plants, and creating spaces people enjoy using. Outside of work, Melissa is often outdoors, spending quality time with her husband and daughter, and pursuing her passions for hiking, gardening, and staying active in nature.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, with a minor in Natural Resource Conservation, 2016,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
MENG SAMANTHA SHUI
Meng (Samantha) Shui is a Design Manager at site with strong skills in graphic production. She is interested in large-scale urban design and is passionate about dramatic space languages. In addition to her skills in landscape architecture, Samantha has experience in painting and stage design.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2016,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Bachelor of Engineering in Landscape Architecture, 2014,
Qingdao Technological University, Qingdao City, Shandong Province, China
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
MITCHELL MURDOCK, ISA Certified Arborist
Mitchell Murdock is a Senior Project Manager and Certified Arborist at site. His specialties include municipal open space projects, urban forestry, and ecological restoration. While working for large municipal park agencies in NYC and Chicago, Mitch fostered his passion for greening communities and developing landscapes that integrate the natural and built elements.
Mitch and his wife stay active by re-discovering the world with their two children.
Education
Master of Science, Landscape Design ,
Columbia University, New York, NY
Bachelor of Science, Natural Resources,
The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Registration/Certification
International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist since 2005
International Society of Arboriculture Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ) since 2021
Professional Affiliations
MONICA ZIMMERMAN, ASLA Assoc.
Monica Zimmerman, Field Technician at site, brings professional experience in organic farming, agronomy, nursery production, and landscape architecture. Based in Chicago, she is passionate about creating regenerative landscapes that blend beauty and practicality. Monica is an alumna of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and holds a bachelor’s degree in crop sciences and a master’s degree in landscape architecture. In her free time, you’ll find her playing survival video games, hunting down the city’s best Italian food (especially tiramisu), and gardening with her family.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2023,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Bachelor of Science in Crop Sciences, 2020,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Associate
Kane County Farm Bureau
NATASHA SHANDURA
Education
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
Contact
natasha.shandura@site-design.com
NICK DENTAMARO
Nick joins site as a Project Associate. He received his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Iowa State University and has experience in varying project types, ranging from multi-acre green roofs, historic renovations, streetscapes, and high-end, single-family residential. Nick loves learning about the physical, mechanical, and construction aspects of design and can often be found outside of work building in his garage or taking on home renovation projects. He loves to cook, explore the west coast, and spend time with his niece and nephew.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2017,
Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
NICOLE BEARD
Nicole is a Site Designer at site. She holds a Master of Landscape Architecture from Kansas State University, where she explored research-based, community-driven design within urban vacancy. Nicole is passionate about designing places and spaces that foster community connections while building a resilient environment. Outside of work, Nicole can be found exploring Chicago or working on her next art or DIY project.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2023,
Kansas State University, Kansas
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
NICOLE MASKOOKI, PLA, ASLA
Nicole is a Project Manager and Landscape Architect at site with a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. She is passionate about designing learning and play environments for children. Nicole is inspired by traveling to new cities and enjoys cooking and hanging out with her family outside of work.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2015,
University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Saint Paul, MN
Bachelor of Environmental Design, Minor in Horticultural Studies, 2013,
University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Saint Paul, MN
Registration/Certification
Professional Landscape Architect, Texas since 2020
Professional Affiliations
ILASLA Communications Committee Co-Chair
ILASLA Communications Committee Member
NUOSHA WANG
Nuosha is on the Design Team at site. She has a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Tongji University and a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned First Prize in the Edmund N. Bacon Urban Design Awards Student Competition. She brings experience at international design firms and a strong skillset in graphic communication. Nuosha speaks English, Madarin, and German.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2021,
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2019,
Tongji University, Shanhai, China
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
PATRICK PETERSON, PLA, CDT, SITES AP, LEED GREEN ASSOCIATE
Patrick Peterson serves as the Director of Construction Administration at site. A Licensed Landscape Architect, Project Manager, and Construction Specialist, he has over 16 years of experience designing and building a wide variety of projects from parks to botanic gardens and streetscapes to corporate headquarters. Patrick prides himself on his dedication to the highest level of client satisfaction through a focus on exceptional craftsmanship and uncompromising quality. Forever in search of the perfect solution, Patrick has a passion for collaboration, detailing, and bringing the firm’s designs to life. Outside of the office, Patrick loves to spend time spoiling his nieces, running along the lake, cooking, reading graphic novels, and listening to music.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2007,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2005,
Ball State University, Muncie, IN
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Illinois
Certified Document Technologist, CSI
SITES Accredited Professional
LEED Green Associate
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects
Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects
Construction Specification Institute
PAUL HSU
Paul (Wen-Po) Hsu is a Field Technician at site. He holds a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Oregon and Master of City Design from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Paul is Taiwanese, but grew up on an the island of Borneo in Malaysia, known for its biodiversity, beaches, and rainforests. He is passionate about improving the day to day lives of people through the design of urban spaces.
Education
Master of City Design, 2023,
University of Illinois at Chicago, Illinois
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2021,
University of Oregon, Eugene, OR
Associate of Arts, 2017,
Seattle Central College, Seattle, WA
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
RACHEL SERFLING
As the Marketing + Communications Manager at site, Rachel Serfling promotes the firm’s work and values to various audiences.
Originally from Chicago, Rachel called London home for 9 years. There she led communications and marketing at a practice of architects, landscape architects, and urban designers. In addition, she has been involved in numerous books and publications as a writer, editor, and professional reviewer. She also brings experience in exhibition design from her time at The Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.
Rachel received bachelor’s degrees in both architecture and psychology from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, as well as a master’s degree from the Architectural Association in London, U.K. She is passionate about sustainable design, art, cooking, collecting vinyl, and travel.
Education
Certificate in Mixed Methods Research, 2020,
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Master of Arts in History and Critical Thinking in Architecture, 2015,
Architectural Association, London, U.K.
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, 2013, and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2013,
Miami University, Oxford, OH
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
ROB REULAND, PLA, ASLA
Rob is a Principal at site. He joined the firm in 2015. As a licensed Landscape Architect and Certified Playground Safety Inspector, Rob’s professional experience is diverse, with a focus on planning and visioning, historic preservation, parks and recreation, residential developments, institutional, and riverfront design. His experience features many long-term projects that led from initial master planning to detailed design, construction documentation, and construction administration. Recent notable project contributions include the North Branch Industrial Corridor Framework Plan, the West Loop Design Guidelines, and the University of Chicago Rubenstein Forum.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture, 2007,
Purdue University
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Illinois
Certified Document Technologist
Certified Playground Safety Inspector, National Recreation and Park Association
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects
ROBERT E. KIESGEN III
Robert E. Kiesgen III joined site as a Field Quality Control Manager in 2022 with twenty-one years of experience rooted in construction, nourished by architecture, and tempered through engineering. A student of architecture at the University of Illinois at Chicago and DIS Copenhagen, he has a unique breadth of understanding of the design and construction of our built environment at varying capacities and scales. With titles ranging from Lead Carpenter to Resident Engineer and a project scope extending from residential construction to massive infrastructure engineering, Robert understands how things come together and effortlessly bridges the gap between design teams, contractors, residents, and business owners.
Outside of the office, Robert can be found with his wife and two boys road tripping their van across the country. His interests include all things two-wheeled, native habitat restoration, fungi/mushroom identification, photography, woodworking, and kayaking, just to name a few.
Education
University of Illinois at Chicago, 2006,
Architectural Studies, Chicago, IL
College of Lake County , 2002,
Architectural Technology , Illinois
College of Lake County , 1998,
Building Trades Vocational Program, Illinois
Denmark International Studies, Architecture & Design, 2006
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
ROBERT K. SIT, AIA
As a Founding Principal of site, Robert K. Sit provides expertise in the architecture, business management, and technology development for the firm. He is responsible for the development and maintenance of all site's document control systems, quality control/quality assurance programs, financial accounting systems, and general computer standards.
Robert’s architecture projects have included the design of numerous restaurant, retail, and institutional projects in the Chicago area. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects and contributes to the profession through continued advocacy and education. Robert is involved in fundraising for numerous non-profits while promoting music and the arts. He enjoys photography and producing audio video projects.
Education
Master of Architecture, 1983 ,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Bachelor of Science in Architecture, 1978 ,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Registration/Certification
Registered Architect (IL),
#183-000256 since 1983
Professional Affiliations
American Institute of Architects
2012 National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
Park Forest Planning Commission, Member 1985-1990
Celebration Ministries (formerly Hope Lutheran Church, Park Forest, IL), President
ROSALIE STARENKO
Rosalie Starenko is on the Design Team at site. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Spanish from Augustana College and a Master of Landscape Architecture from the Knowlton School at Ohio State. She is interested in telling stories about projects and places through spatial representation. Her background in geography has led her to be a big-picture thinker and she draws design inspiration from specific site and regional contexts, especially from within her beloved Midwest.
Outside of work, Rosalie can be found admiring the plants that grow through cracks in the sidewalk, doodling in a small notebook, or reveling in good conversation around a dinner table.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2020,
Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Spanish, 2015,
Augustana College, Rock Island, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
Contact
rosalie.starenko@site-design.com
RUSSELL HEINRICHS
Russell is a Field Quality Control Technician, Staff Arborist at site. He previously served as a Green Streets Manager for the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT). Russ is an ecological restoration professional focusing on protecting and improving native habitats while accounting for community usage and economic growth. He also has experience coordinating large-scale projects that bridge public and private sector interests. Outside of work, he volunteers with local green restoration organizations throughout Chicago.
Education
Master of Environmental Management & Sustainability, 2014,
Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL
Bachelor of Biology, 2003,
University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, Champaign, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
SARA GRAY, PLA
Sara is a Project Manager and Landscape Architect at site. She holds a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of Arts in Geography from Pennsylvania State University. Growing up in Central Pennsylvania, Sara spent the majority of her time outdoors exploring and learning about the natural environment, which eventually helped to lead her to a career in landscape architecture. Prior to working at site, Sara has practiced in Chicago and Philadelphia where she worked on projects of varying scales including the Whiting Forest at Dow Gardens, Valley Forge National Historic Park, Philidelphia's Pivot Park, and others. Outside of work, Sara enjoys pilates, reading, hiking with her family, and petting all of the dogs. Sara is CLARB certified and registered in Pennsylvania.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2014,
Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
Registration/Certification
Licensed Landscape Architect, State of Pennsylvania
Professional Affiliations
SARAH GAINES
Sarah is a member of the Technical Team at site. She works on projects from schematic design through construction documentation and observation. She is passionate about planting design and designing spaces with a strong focus on environmental and social impact. Sarah is also an amateur potter, a fluent German speaker, and a “lapsed” cook.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2019,
University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Art in Architectural Studies and Geography, 2016,
University of Toronto, Canada
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Illinois Chapter
SIMONA HRISTOV
Simona is an Accounting Associate at site with a passion for office management, administration, and problem-solving. Her multi-tasking abilities enable her to handle diverse responsibilities seamlessly, while her strong communication skills foster collaboration and efficient project execution. Her love for reading, hiking, and traveling enhances her professional acumen, enabling her to approach challenges with a fresh perspective.
Education
Certificate of Bookkeeping and Accounts Level 1, 2013,
Brooklands College, Weybridge, U.K.
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
SOPHIA ESSIAN, PLA, ASLA, LEED Green Associate
Sophia is the BIM Manager at site. She graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture and a Bachelor of Science in Sustainability. She has coordinated design projects from programming, planning, and conceptual design through construction documentation and observation. Sophia enjoys collaborating with multidisciplinary teams of allied professionals, specialists, project managers, and stakeholders to provide exceptional service and designs for her clients.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture, 2015,
Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Bachelor of Science in Sustainability, 2015,
Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Illinois Chapter Emerging Professionals Co-Chair
SUZANNE VINCENT, PLA, ASLA
Suzanne is a Project Manager and Landscape Architect at site. She has over 15 years experience and is skilled at urban and landscape design from site to community scale and concept through construction documentation. She also has experience in graphic communication through scaled drawings, hand and digital rendering, and perspective drawings/3D models. Outside of work she enjoys spending time with her family and adventurous vacations.
Education
Bachelor of Science Landscape Architecture, 2007,
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects, Wisconsin Chapter Secretary
TADHG BARLOW, ASLA
Tadhg Barlow is part of site’s field and construction administration team, serving as a Field Project Manager. With a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from University College Dublin, he brings more than eight years of professional experience, specializing in bringing high quality design to life. Born in Zimbabwe, Tadgh lived in Ireland before moving to Chicago.
Education
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2016,
University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
American Society of Landscape Architects
YAXUAN SHI
Yaxuan is a Design Associate at site, with a strong background in graphic representation. She regularly works with the wider team to help visualize projects through creative representation techniques. Yaxuan has a passion for painting, playing the violin, and cooking, and loves to travel whenever she has free time.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2016,
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Bachelor of Engineering, 2014,
Southwest Jiaotong University, China
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
YUKI TAKESHIMA
Yuki Takeshima is a Senior Design Manager at site. She is responsible for advancing the quality of the firm’s graphic and presentation output, pushing the creative content to continuously improve design expression. Yuki’s passion lies in the creation of tangible experiences that are highly immersive and specific and believes that these can manifest themselves across all scales and media.
Yuki is Japanese, was born in South Korea, and grew up in Australia. Yuki is fluent in Japanese and Korean. She is currently based in Tokyo and has been working remotely from various cities around the world since 2017.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture, 2013,
Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
YUYING SHEN
Yuying is on the Design Team at site. With a Master of Landscape Architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design, she has professional and volunteer experience in various types of projects in landscape design, planning, and research. Yuying is passionate about how thoughtful design can make a positive change in people's life and the environment. Outside of work, Yuying enjoys exploring Chicago’s neighborhoods and being inspired by the city life, coffee shops, and nature. She is always looking for a tennis mate, a street dance crew, and places to hike. At other times, she can be found cooking or making journals at home.
Education
Master of Landscape Architecture, 2019,
Rhode Island School of Design, Rhode Island
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, 2016,
Tongji University, Shanghai, China
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
Contact
yuying.shen@site-design.com
ZOEY KRIETHE
Zoey joins site as a Site Designer. She recently graduated from the Illinois Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Architecture and specialization in Landscape Architecture. She has experience working in large and small firms on a variety of project types, including historic preservation, design competitions, and residential design. Zoey is passionate about equitable and diverse design and is excited to continue learning as a designer. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time and cooking with friends and family.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture, 2023,
Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL
Registration/Certification
Professional Affiliations
Contact
zoey.kriethe@site-design.comAwards
2023, AIA Illinois, Citation of Merit Recipients, Architecture Small
Broadway Youth Center
2023, AIA Illinois, People Choice Award Finalists, Multifamily Residential
INTRO Cleveland
2023, AIA Illinois, People’s Choice Award, Multifamily Residential
Tribune Tower Conversion
2023, AIA Illinois, People Choice Award Finalists, Office
North Lawndale Employment Network
2023, AIA Illinois, Decarbonization Merit Award Finalist
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Campus Instructional Facility
2023, AIA Illinois, Citation of Merit Recipients, Architecture Medium
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Campus Instructional Facility
2023, AIA Illinois, People’s Choice Award, Education
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Campus Instructional Facility
2023, AIA Illinois, People’s Choice Awards Finalist, Tall Building
One Chicago
2023, AIA Illinois, Citation of Merit, Architecture Extra Large
One Chicago
2023 - AIA Illinois, Citation of Merit, Architecture Small
The Hub at Prairie Shores
2023 - Illinois ASLA, President's Award, Design
Pullman National Historical Park Visitor Center
2023 - Illinois ASLA, Jensen Award
The Field Museum of Natural History
2023 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award, Planning and Analysis
Western Avenue Corridor Study
2023 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award, Design
Pioneer Court at the Tribune Tower
2023 - City of Milwaukee Mayor Design Award
Milwaukee Green Bay Playfield
2023 - City of Milwaukee Mayor Design Award
Milwaukee Recreation Burnham Playfield
2023 - Wisconsin ASLA, Award of Excellence
Milwaukee Recreation Burnham Playfield
2023 - Wisconsin ASLA, Honor Award
Milwaukee Recreation Green Bay Playfield
2023 - AIA, Educational Facility Design Award
UIC Academic and Residential Complex
2022 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award, Residential
Crossroads City Club Apartments
2022 - Illinois ASLA, Honor Award, Design
Douglass 18
2022 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award, Design
Seneca Park
2022 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award, Design
Riverwalk East
2022 - Engineering News-Record, Best Small Project (Under $10M)
SOS Children's Village Illinois Roosevelt Square Community Center
2022 - Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Award, Rehabilitation
Pullman National Monument & State Historic Site
2022 - AIA Chicago, Lerch Bates People’s Choice Award, Education
The David Rubenstein Forum
2022 - March of Dimes, Professional Services Award
Earnest Wong
2022 - AIA Illinois Capitol Award
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Campus Instructional Facility
2022 - AIA Illinois Excellence Award
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Campus Instructional Facility
2022 - AIA Illinois President's Award
Pullman National Monument and State Historic Site
2022 - AIA Illinois Greatest Impact Award
North Lawndale Employment Network
2021 - AIA Film Challenge Finalist
75th Street Boardwalk Video
2021 - ASLA Community Service Award
Ernest C. Wong
2021 - ASLA Honor Award, Urban Design
75th Street Boardwalk
2021 - Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards, Creative Placemaking Award
75th Street Boardwalk
2021 - Congress for New Urbanism - National, Charter Award
75th Street Boardwalk
2021 - Illinois ASLA, Honror Award, Design
The University of Chicago Keller Center
2021 - Illinois ASLA, Honor Award, Residential
Norweta
2021 - Illinois ASLA, Jensen Award
Dan Ryan Woods Nature Play
2021 - Illinois ASLA, President's Award
Milwaukee Harbor District Riverwalk Design Standards
2021 - Illinois ASLA Merit Award, Design
75th Street Boardwalk
2021 - Lamba Alpha Ely Chapter Daniel H. Burnham Distinguished Service Award
Ernest C. Wong
2021 - The Architect's Newpaper Best of Landscape Architecture, Midwest
site design group, ltd.
2020 - Illinois ASLA, President's Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park 20th Anniversary Video
2020 - Illinois ASLA, Landmark Award
The Park at Lakeshore East
2020 - Illinois ASLA, Honor Award
Comer Children's Hospital Play Garden
2020 - Illinois ASLA, Honor Award
Chicago River Design Guidelines Update
2020 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award
Ace Hotel Chicago
2020 - Friends of the Chicago River, Silver Ribbon Award
Riverwalk East
2019 - Illinois ASLA, Honor Award
CPS John Cook Academy Space to Grow
2019 - Illinois ASLA, Honor Award
McKinley Community Play Garden
2018 - Illinois ASLA, President's Award
River Edge Ideas Lab
2018 - Illinois ASLA, Honor Award
Argyle Shared Street
2018 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award
North Branch Industrial Corridor
2018 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award
WIU Quadcities Riverfront Campus
2018 - Congress for New Urbanism - National, Charter Award
Argyle Shared Street
2018 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards Architectural Excellence in Community Design, 1st Place
Casa Queretaro
2018 - Friends of the Chicago River, Chicago River Blue Award
Argyle Shared Street
2018 - ASLA, Honor Award - Analysis and Planning
Positioning Pullman
2017 - Illinois ASLA Honor Award
The Burnham at Woodlawn Park
2017 - Illinois ASLA Honor Award
Positioning Pullman
2017 - Illinois ASLA Honor Award
The Field Museum of Natural History Landscape Master Plan
2017 - Illinois ASLA Merit Award
The Lofts at River East
2017 - Illinois ASLA Merit Award
Downtown Montessori Children's Garden
2017 - Illinois ASLA Merit Award
Fullerton Theater on the Lake
2017 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards Architectural Excellence in Community Design, 2nd Place
Chinatown Branch Library
2016 - Friends of Downtown, Best Plan
Fulton Market Innovation District Plan
2016 - APA IL Chapter Awards, Strategic Plan
Positioning Pullman
2016 - AIA Chicago, Honor Award, Daniel Burnham Award for Master Planning
Positioning Pullman
2016 - Urban Land Institute, Vision Awards
CTA Cermak-McCormick Place Station
2016 - World Architecture Festival, Award Shortlist, Transport - Completed Buildings Category
CTA Cermak-McCormick Place Station
2016 - Urban Land Institute, Vision Awards
Chinatown Branch Library
2016 - Chicago Building Congress, Merit Award
Chinatown Branch Library
2016 - Chicago Building Congress, Merit Award
Chicago Children's Advocacy Center
2016 - The Architect's Newspaper, Best of Landscape: Honorable Mention
Dorchester Art + Housing Collaborative
2016 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Award, Architectural Excellence in Community Design, 2nd Place
Dorchester Art + Housing Collaborative
2016 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Award for Architectural Excellence in Community Design, 1st Place
NEIU El Centro Campus
2016 - AIA/HUD Secretary's Award for Excellence in Affordable Housing
Dorchester Art + Housing Collaborative
2016 - Illinois ASLA Firm of the Year
site design group, ltd.
2016 - Illinois ASLA Landmark Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park
2016 - Illinois ASLA Honor Award
CDOT Sustainable Urban Infrastructure Policies and Guidelines
2016 - Illinois ASLA Merit Award
Dorchester Art + Housing Collaborative
2016 - AIA/ALA Library Building Award
Chinatown Branch Library
2015 - CNU Illinois Charter Award: Block, Street & Building Award
Lakeview Lincoln Hub
2015 ULI Vision Awards: Arts + Community
Dorchester Art + Housing Collaborative
2015 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Project of the Year for Adaptive Reuse
Dorchester Art + Housing Collaborative
2015 - Chicago Building Congress, Merit Award
NEIU El Centro Campus
2015 - Chicago Building Congress, Merit Award
The University of Chicago 58th Street West
2015 - AIA Chicago Design Excellence Award
NEIU El Centro Campus
2015 - The Architect's Newspaper Building of the Year: Midwest
Chinatown Branch Library
2015 - Illinois ASLA: Design, Merit Award
Garfield Park Conservatory Play and Grow Garden V1.0
2015 - Illinois ASLA: Design, Merit Award
LaSalle II Magnet School
2015 - Illinois ASLA: Design, Merit Award
Park 574
2015 - Illinois ASLA: Design, Merit Award
he University of Chicago 58th Street West Streetscape
2014 - Friends of the Chicago River Blue Ribbon Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park Boathouse
2014 - Friends of the Chicago River Silver Ribbon Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park Fieldhouse
2014 - ENR Midwest Award of Merit
Ping Tom Memorial Park
2014 - Chicago Building Congress Merit Award Finalist for Construction Under $15 Million
Ping Tom Memorial Park
Fieldhouse 2014 - Bruce Abrams Good Neighbor Award - Commercial New Construction, Chicago Association of Realtors
Ping Tom Memorial Park Fieldhouse
2014 - AIA Chicago Small Projects Honor Award Ping Tom Memorial Park Boathouse 2014 - Illinois ASLA, Design: Merit Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park Boathouse
2014 - AIA Chicago Small Projects Honor Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park Boathouse
2014 - Illinois ASLA, Design: Merit Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park Boathouse
2014 - ACEC Illinois, Engineerng Excellence Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park Boathouse
2013 - Illinois ASLA, Design: Institutional President Award
Judge Fisher Senior Apartments
2013 - Illinois ASLA, Design: Recreational and Open Space President Award
31st Street Harbor
2013 - Illinois ASLA, Design: Urban Honor Award
Lightscape on State Street
2013 - Illinois ASLA, Design: Institutional Merit Award
Near North Montessori School
2012 - Illinois ASLA Design, Merit Award
Langston Hughes Elementary School
2012 - Illinois ASLA Planning & Analysis Honor Award
Bubbly Creek Framework Plan
2012 - Illinois ASLA Design, Merit Award
Langston Hughes Elementary School
2012 - Illinois ASLA Planning & Analysis Honor Award
Bubbly Creek Framework Plan
2012 - Chicago Wilderness Conservation and Native Landscaping Award
Henry Palmisano Park
2012 - AIA Chicago, SustainABILITY Leadership Award, Citation of Merit
31st Street Harbor
2012 - Award for Engineering Excellence - Illinois Society of Professional Engineering - Chicago Chapter
31st Street Harbor
2012 - Engineering News Record Midwest Best Landscape/Hardscape/Urban Development Project
31st Street Harbor
2012 - Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, Award of Merit for illumination
Lightscape on State Street
2012 - Illuminating Engineering Society of North America, Award of Merit for controls
Lightscape on State Street
2012 - Urban Land Institute Chicago, Vision Award, Program Category Finalist
Lightscape on State Street
2012 - International Superyacht Society Fabien Cousteau Blue Award for stewardship of marine ecosystems
31st Street Harbor
2012 - Learning by Design Citation of Excellence Award
Federico Garcia Lorca Elementary School
2011 - Chicago Building Congress, Merit Award Finalist
Federico Garcia Lorca Elementary School
2011 - Friends of Downtown, Best Open Space
Mary Bartelme Park
2011 - Mayor Daley’s Landscape Award
The Park at Lakeshore East
2011 - Metropolitan Planning Council Burnham Award for Excellence in Planning
The Park at Lakeshore East
2010 - Illinois ASLA, Design: Urban Merit Award
Tinley Park Downtown Master Plan
2010 - Association of Licensed Architects Silver Medal
Langston Hughes Elementary School
2010 - Chicago Architecture Foundation-Patron of the Year Award Nomination
Federico Garcia Lorca Elementary School
2010 - City of Chicago, Chicago Landmark Award for Preservation Excellence – New Infill
Park Printers Row Park
2010 - ENR Midwest Best of 2010 Merit Award
Langston Hughes Elementary School
2010 - Association of Licensed Architects Silver Design Award
Federico Garcia Lorca Elementary School
2010 - Illinois ASLA, Design: Recreation & Open Space Honor Award
Mary Bartelme Park
2010 - Illinois Chapter of the American Planning Association Award for Best Strategic Plan
Tinley Park Downtown Master Plan
2010 - Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, Excellence in Landscape, Silver Award
Henry C. Palmisano (Stearns Quarry) Park
2010 - Illinois ASLA, Environmental Stewardship Honor Award
Henry C. Palmisano (Stearns Quarry) Park
2010 - Chicago Atheneaum American Architecture Awards
Henry C. Palmisano (Stearns Quarry) Park
2009 - Chicago Architecture Foundation-Patron of the Year Award Nomination
Mark T. Skinner West Elementary School
2009 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Award for Architectural Excellence in Community Design, 3rd Place
Langston Hughes Elementary School
2009 - Green Building of America Award Mark T. Skinner
West Elementary School
2008 - The American Architecture Award
The Park at Lakeshore East
2008 - FIABCI Prix d'Excellence Award
The Park at Lakeshore East
2008 - Mayor Daley’s Landscape Award
The Park at Lakeshore East
2006 - Building Stone Institute, Tucker Design Awards
The Park at Lakeshore East
2006 - Building Stone Institute, Tucker Design Awards
The Park at Lakeshore East
2006 - Texas ASLA, Merit Award, Design
The Park at Lakeshore East
2005 - Congress for the New Urbanism, Charter Award
Waukegan Lakefront Downtown Urban Design Plan
2005 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Citation of Merit, Distinguished Building, 3rd Place
Chinese American Service League Kam Liu Building
2005 - Illinois ASLA, Design-Public Honor Award
The Park at Lakeshore East
2005 - Illinois-Indiana Masonry Council, Excellence in Masonry, Silver
The Park at Lakeshore East
2005 - Metropolitan Planning Council, Burnham Award for Excellence in Planning
Waukegan Lakefront Downtown Urban Design Plan
2005 - Midwest Construction, Site Landscaping, Award of Merit
The Park at Lakeshore East
2004 - Best of Institutional Award, Midwest Construction Magazine
Chinese American Service League Kam Liu Building
2004 - Illinois ASLA, Merit Award
Dan Ryan Expressway Landscape Guidelines
2003 - Friends of Downtown Best Planning Project
Grant Park Framework Plan
2001 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Award for Architectural Excellence
Ping Tom Memorial Park
2000 - Illinois ASLA, Honor Award
Ping Tom Memorial Park
2000 - Friends of Downtown, Best Open Space
Ping Tom Memorial Park
2001 - Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Award for Architectural Excellence
Ping Tom Memorial Park
Publications
Arts Lawn, a community-centered space in Washington Park, celebrates opening
19 October 2023
View ArticleCultivate Collective transforms former public housing site into SW Side community hub
09 October 2023
View ArticleARTS + PUBLIC LIFE Launches Ambitious New Arts Block Experience: The Arts Lawn
04 October 2023
View ArticleNorfolk Southern selects four structural design consultant teams for CREATE Project EW2
23 August 2023
View ArticleJohn Ronan Architects creates circular brick building for Chicago Park District
15 August 2023
View ArticleFox Lake park to get amphitheater, pickleball courts in project that begins Monday
23 June 2023
View ArticleThe Englewood Breakroom, A Pop-Up Plaza, Will Open This Summer With A Basketball Court, Live Music Stages And More
15 June 2023
View ArticleUptown’s Black Ensemble Theater Plans Massive Expansion With Media Center, Education Hub And Artist Residences
25 May 2023
View ArticleBally’s Unveils New ‘Neighborhood-Oriented’ Chicago Casino Design After Clearing Regulatory Hurdle
12 May 2023
View ArticleCity of Chicago, 548 Enterprise, Related Midwest Break Ground on New North Lawndale Site
23 February 2023
View ArticleCity Of Chicago, 548 Enterprise, And Related Midwest Break Ground On Industrial Site And Innovation Center In North Lawndale
17 February 2023
View ArticleSolomon Cordwell Buenz completes the heroic Chicago condo conversion of Hood and Howell’s 1925 iconic 34-story Tribune Tower
27 January 2023
View ArticleChicago casino won’t be a ‘glitzy Las Vegas Strip joint’ but a ‘series of experiences,’ developers say
6 December 2022
View ArticleThe North Lawndale Employment Network Sees Through Employment Barriers for the Formerly Incarcerated
12 February 2022
View ArticleShedd Aquarium Reveals Planned Exterior Enhancements for Greater Accessibility, Nature Access and Historic Preservation
02 February 2022
View ArticleNext phase of $6 billion Lincoln Yards megadevelopment to break ground by summer
24 January 2022
View Article"A Shot in the Arm: Temporary Interventions Can Be Long-Term Investments in Neighborhoods" Newcity Magazine
16 September 2021
View Article"Diversity Spotlight: Ernest Wong" Michigan State University College of Social Science
1 July 2021
View Article"Parklets jump-start neighborhood main street" Public Square: A CNU Journal
27 April 2021
View Article"Let's Destroy the Myth of the Asian Americans as the Model Minority" The Dirt
26 April 2021
View Article"The John W. Cook Academy Space to Grow Schoolyard" Smart Policies for a Changing Climate Exhibit
March 2021
View Article"Will City Planning Become More Socially Equitable Post-Coronavirus" Autodesk Redshift
9 July 2020
View Article"John Ronan Architects reveals circular new headquarters for Chicago Park District" The Architect's Newspaper
2 June 2020
View Article"State Street makeover? Downtown business group hires design firm to recommend changes" Chicago Sun Times
14 January 2020
View Article"McKinley Community Play Garden" Landscape Architect and Specifier News
September 2019
"Space to Grow - John W. Cook Academy" Landscape Architect and Specifier News
June 2019
View Article"Emanuel unveils 2-year, $10M revamp of Riverwalk between State Street and Lake Shore Drive" Chicago Tribune
3 August 2018
View Article"Designer Jonathan Nesci brings an adult jungle gym to Chicago’s Ace Hotel" The Architects Newspaper
16 July 2018
View Article"Reimagining Beaubien Woods" Chicago Architect
1 July 2018
"The Landscape View: Bringing the Many Benefits of Parks to the Forefront" Recreation Management Magazine
1 May 2018
View Article"Prairie District Park at McCormick Square, Chicago" Landscape Architect and Specifier News
1 April 2018
View Article"Maintenance Matters" Landscape Architecture Magazine
1 April 2018
"Mixed-income artists’ residences officially break ground in Washington Park" Curbed Chicago
1 January 2018
View Article"A Former Chicago Project Will Become A Museum Dedicated To Public Housing" Fast Company
26 January 2018
View Article"Here are the winners of the 2017 AN Best of Design Awards" The Architect's Newspaper
1 December 2017
View Article"Winners of the 2017 Association of Licensed Architects Design Awards" The Architect's Newspaper
24 October 2017
View Article"Amenities, interior designs unveiled for South Loop’s 1000M" Curbed Chicago
6 October 2017
View Article"New food incubator project ready to break ground in Chicago’s East Garfield Park" Curbed Chicago
22 September 2017
View Article"ASLA Awards/ Professional Awards" Landscape Architecture Magazine
1 September 2017
"Color and Cushion" Landscape Architecture Magazine
May 2017
“Landscape designers named for Obama Presidential Center” Chicago Tribune
30 January 2017
View Article"Chicago's new Viñoly tower breaks ground and gets new name" The Architects Newspaper
5 January 2017
View Article"Garfield Park Conservatory Play and Grow Garden V1.0" Landscape Architect and Specifier News
September 2016
View Article"Zip lines, rock climbing walls and boogie boards added to Chicago playgrounds" Chicago Tribune
9 August 2016
View Article"Reviving Chinatown's Lost Public Green Space on Chicago's South Side" Landscape Architect and Specifier News
March 2016
View Article"Complete Streets, Simplified" Landscape Architecture Magazine
February 2016
"Deep Cut: the history of Chicago is buried under one of its least-known and most astonishing parks" Landscape Architecture Magazine
November 2015
"Chicago's Chinatown library breaks cookie-cutter mold" Chicago Tribute
7 September 2015
View Article"Garfield Park Natural Playscape V1.0, Chicago, Site Design Group, 2015" Playscapes
27 July 2015
View Article"Reading Comes to Life at LaSalle II Magnet School" Landscape Architect and Specifier News
June 2015
View Article"Deep Pockets: Reforming Chicago's Smallest Play Spaces" Landscape Architect and Specifier News
July 2014
View Article"State Street Lightscape" World Landscape Architecture Magazine. 14 - Temporary and Transitory
July 2014
“Illuminating the Windy City.” Landscape Architect and Specifier News.
April 2013, 68-70
View Article"Adams-Sangamon Park" CS Modern Luxury
January 2013, 32-33
“Illuminating the Windy City.” Landscape Architect and Specifier News.
April 2013, 68-70
View Article"Adams-Sangamon Park" CS Modern Luxury
January 2013, 32-33
"The Cityscapes Forum: Chicagoans of the Year in design: Landscape architects Peter Schaudt and Ernest Wong brighten the cityscape and reflect their field's rising profile" Chicago Tribune
22 December 2010
View Article“Best of 2010 Architecture.” Chicago Tribune, 5. Landscape Urbanism: Strategies
12 December 2010
“The Cityscapes Forum:High Praise For The New Palmisano Park” Chicago Tribune
30 November 2010
View ArticleSwanson, Brad. “Mary Bartelme Park & Playground.” Landscape Architect and Specifier News
October 2010, 20-22
"Cityscapes Forum: West Side story: A new park, with dynamic geometry and bold interactivity, creates an urban oasis amid wall-to-wall condos" Chicago Tribune
27 August 2010
View ArticleDingman, Ian. “20 Great Towns and Neighborhoods.” Chicago Magazine
April 2010
"Historical Perspective Ernest Wong" Luxe Chicago Style Makers, Luxe Interiors + Design
10 March 2010, 114-115
Kent, Cheryl. Screen Play. Architecture Magazine
December 2004
“Dan Ryan Expressway Landscape Guidelines”, Folio: National ASLA. Volume 3
2004,18-19
Ernest C. Wong, Guest Lecturer. “Grant Park Framework Plan”, Harvard Graduate School of Design and Illinois ASLA
6/25/01
Gibson, Lydialyle. “Residents Mull Grant Park’s Potential.” Chicago Journal, Vol. 1, No. 1, 1.
8 March 2001
Ernest C. Wong, Guest Lecturer. “Grant Park Framework Plan”, Harvard Graduate School of Design and Illinois ASLA
6/25/01
Gibson, Lydialyle. “Residents Mull Grant Park’s Potential.” Chicago Journal, Vol. 1, No. 1, 1.
8 March 2001
“Public Spaces. Spaceshaper Interview: Chicago’s Ping Tom Memorial Park”. Insites brochure - Landscapeforms, vol 1, issue 2
2003
“Ping Tom Memorial Park”. Building Stone Magazine
2002
“Ping Tom Memorial Park”. Building Stone Magazine
2002
Hinshaw, Mark, & Wong, Ernest C. “A Cultural Revolution: In Chicago’s Chinatown, carving a public space out of an urban wasteland.” Landscape Architecture, 30-36
July 2002
Ernest C. Wong, Guest Lecturer. “Grant Park Framework Plan”, Harvard Graduate School of Design and Illinois ASLA
6/25/01
Gibson, Lydialyle. “Residents Mull Grant Park’s Potential.” Chicago Journal, Vol. 1, No. 1, 1.
8 March 2001
“Ping Tom Memorial Park. The City in a Garden: A Photographic History of Chicago’s Parks. By Julia S. Bachrach. Santa Fe, NM: Center for American Places, 127.
2001
“Chinatown Cheers New Park On River.” Chicago Sun-Times, Section 2, 4
6 September 1999
“Chinatown Cheers New Park On River.” Chicago Sun-Times, Section 2, 4
6 September 1999
Bey, Lee. “Gateway to a Greener Chinatown.” Chicago Sun-Times, 16
17 August 1998
Architecture Awards - BSI Study Tour, 16-20
July/August/September 2002
“Ping Tom Memorial Park”, LandForum: Designed Landscape Forum III. Volume 13, 95
2002