by Mary Beth Schwartz
The Cutting Edge. Sometimes it applies to fashion. Sometimes it applies to technology. In Bucks County landscape architecture, it applies to the master plans and renovations of Landscape Design Group, Inc—an innovative, award-winning firm started by two brothers with the same vision 30 years ago.
“On a cold and damp morning in March 1982, my brother Frank and I set to work on our first landscape job—hand digging and operating equipment entirely on our own. That evening we spent designing, drawing, and struggling with the challenges of starting a business. From that simple beginning, Landscape Design Group, Inc. has grown to a full-time staff, responsible for several hundred landscape construction projects last year,” says Principal Michael C. Montemuro.
Landscape Design Group, Inc. is a design/build company. “We are landscape architects, trained in environmental design, horticulture, and site planning. This way, we can have complete control over both the design and construction aspects of a project. The client can enjoy comprehensive, seamless service, from initial consultation to project completion and maintenance,” Montemuro says.
According to Montemuro, the staff at Landscape Design Group, Inc. always is searching for the latest trends. They strive to stay cutting edge on every project they work on. An exciting new aspect of their landscape design is incorporating elements that are sustainable and green—native plant materials, rain gardens, stormwater recharge areas, water harvest for irrigation, pervious paving to control runoff—the list goes on and on.
In the past five years, a crew has been added at Landscape Design Group, Inc. to concentrate on horticultural services. “We maintain the landscape throughout the year on a weekly or biweekly basis—anything that needs to be implemented to keep the integrity of the design. For example, pruning, selective pruning, trimming, keeping beds weed free, and cutting back plant material at specific times of the year. This service only is offered to LDG clients,” Montemuro says.
A common denominator of interest always has been the creation of outdoor living spaces. Clients want to create personal backyard resorts at home, complete with an outdoor living room, kitchen, eating area, or swimming oasis. For the Doylestown Country Club, Landscape Design Group, Inc. created a high-end pool complex to attract new club members. “This project consisted of a master plan pool complex to be built at the same location as an existing old and tired pool. The design elements were many, and the space was limited. The final results were a complete success. We received rave reviews,” Montemuro says.
Another commercial project for the firm was the master plan landscape rehabilitation design at The Inn at Lambertville Station and Lambertville Station Restaurant. “Located just over the bridge in Lambertville, along the main street, this property has very high public visibility. Our goal was to create an inviting and seasonal landscape to promote a strong identity and image. Opening up and framing views to the river was very important. The client was thrilled with the new landscape,” Montemuro says.
Landscape Design Group, Inc. has continued to stay busy through recent economic times. “It is a combination of being sensitive to budget and the importance of prioritizing design elements complemented by a versatile broad spectrum of project type and size. We have not targeted one market in the past few years. We have successfully completed everything from small scale front yard/backyard rehab projects to large scale master plan rehab projects; and small scale new landscape projects to large scale master plans,” Montemuro says.
Associated with several prestigious landscaping organizations, including the American Society of Landscape Architects, Pennsylvania Registered Landscape Architects, Pennsylvania Landscape & Nursery Association, and The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, Landscape Design Group, Inc. has won numerous awards since its 30 years in business. In 2010, the American Society of Landscape Architects, PA/DE Chapter Merit Award for the Aldie Mansion in Doylestown Rehab Project. Also in 2010, the American Society of Landscape Architects, PA/DE Chapter Merit Award for Union Square in New Hope. And recently in 2011, the American Society of Landscape Architects, PA/DE Chapter Merit Award for the Ely Farm Residence in Upper Makefield.
Covering Bucks and Montgomery counties, and over the Delaware River into New Jersey, Landscape Design Group, Inc. is ready for the years ahead. According to Montemuro, they are up to the challenge. With their reputation, strong sense of professionalism, and work ethic, the sky is the limit. Landscape Design Group, Inc. will continue to do what is best for the client, never cut corners, avoid phony sales gimmicks, put their ultimate into every job, and offer a turn key approach—staying on the cutting edge of landscape architecture and construction. For more information, contact Landscape Design Group, Inc., 4284 Burnt House Hill Road,
Doylestown, PA; 215-340-7890or visit www.landscapedesigngroupinc.com.
Mary Beth Schwartz is a freelance home and garden editor who frequently writes for regional magazines.