Exceptional Landscape Design Solutions for Outdoor Spaces in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, IL, and Surrounding Areas
Tailored Creativity From A
Boutique Landscape Design and Build Studio
At Nathan Wright Landscape Design, our founders, Nathan and Lola Wright, have always been driven by a passion for modern naturalistic landscape design, fostering strong connections with our team and clients, and unlocking creative inspiration through collaboration. Serving both residential and commercial property owners in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, and nearby communities, our landscape team is proud to deliver a seamless design, build, and maintain experience.
Drawing on the rich heritage of celebrated masters from the Lurie Garden and High Line lineage, our approach to naturalistic perennial gardening reflects the design principles of Dutch plantsman Piet Oudolf and Midwest plantsman Roy Diblik. We craft environmentally sustainable gardens with an all-encompassing approach that considers the local climate, bloom times, ongoing maintenance needs, and your specific outdoor lifestyle preferences.
Our clients can expect a smooth and well-organized process, from the preliminary design stage to detailed site planning, expert construction, and options for maintaining their outdoor living spaces.
Our team, led by Registered Landscape Architect Nathan Wright and CEO Lola Wright, consists of designers, horticulturists, and industry experts.
Contact us today to explore how our excellent landscape team can bring innovation and creativity to your outdoor spaces in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, and surrounding communities.
Impeccable Residential and Commercial
Landscape Services from an Experienced Team
With comprehensive services for residential and commercial properties, our in-house team of experts and extensive network of trusted contractors can meet all of your landscaping needs. We're known among landscaping companies in Lincoln Park and the Chicagoland area for our sustainable solutions, collaborative spirit, and high-level design and craftsmanship in everything we do:
Meet Our Founders
Nathan and Lola Wright share a commitment to the transformation and growth of people and place. Their shared commitment has enabled Nathan Wright Landscape Design to be an industry leader attracting extraordinary clients and exceptional team members. Their passion for beautiful work that is well planned and executed motivates every choice they make.
Nathan is a Registered Landscape Architect with a profound appreciation for the complexities and interest of urban environments. While pursuing his Master's Degree in Landscape Architecture, Nathan gained valuable experience working with esteemed designers such as Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects, Lake Flato Architects, and McKay Landscape Architects. Focusing on plant selection and high-quality hardscape materials, Nathan's design style is crafted with a deep respect for the built and natural environment, his clients, and genus loci—the spirit of a place.
Lola is internationally known as a thought leader, speaker, and coach. Her career has spanned roles including international jazz vocalist, community leader, and CEO. Lola is often referred to as a “force of nature”. She has facilitated and taken the stage in front of the most diverse audiences around the globe, worked at some of the world’s leading financial institutions, trained in several well-respected coaching methodologies, and founded multiple businesses. Helping individuals, groups, and organizations navigate transition and change in an honest and raw way is her superpower. She says what others won’t, asks questions others avoid, and holds space for people to develop solutions that work.
Nathan and Lola have four children and own three businesses, all of which are committed to growth.
Meet Our Team
The true essence of our success at Nathan Wright Landscape Design lies in the intersection of our team's unique talents and passion. We deeply appreciate the specialized skills and expertise that our designers, landscape architects, horticulturists, craftspeople, and artists contribute to the team, and we're privileged to collaborate daily in representing the finest landscape services that the Chicagoland area has to offer. Learn more about our team and our collective experience in creating inspiring and captivating landscapes.
Nathan Wright
I love the opportunity to translate so many ideas from paper into a built form where I can learn and grow from my experience. While some lessons are instant, and successes obvious - others can take years, be more subtle, and require patience, discernment, and refinement.
I love being around young people who share my passion for design, plants, and making a difference in the world. I truly believe in what we’re creating and am encouraged by our growth and successes.
When I discovered my passion for landscape architecture in 2005, all of my prior interests and experiences suddenly made sense.
Licensed Landscape Architect, Masters Degree in Landscape Architecture, a Bachelors Degree in Architecture, Alumni of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses.
I love to shape people’s perception and experience of outdoor spaces.
I’m inspired by plants and gardens. I love discovering new combinations of reliable, low maintenance, perennials.
Lola Wright
I love thoughtful design, bringing more beauty into the world, and caring for what is in place. I enjoy creating and experiencing awe even in the simplest of moments.
I love that NWLD stands for plants and people. Our work is beautiful. Our team is brilliant. We have a diverse group of talented and committed people that all contribute to passionate and purposeful work in the world.
I married into the landscaping industry in 2007.
My experience is in organizational development and business. I offer my gifts in strategic thinking, operations, and communications to support our team and our clients.
I love working with human beings. They are dynamic, complex, and always changing. Never dull!
Witnessing our team grow together and support one another inspires me.
Kareen Abiabi
I love how landscapes don’t just complement a structure, but also elevate the spaces around it. Every plant and material is intentionally chosen to perform beautifully across all seasons, creating environments that are alive all year-round.
What I appreciate most about NWLD is the design integrity and intentionality behind every project. The team is generous with knowledge, open to discussion and invested in producing high-quality work. It’s an environment that encourages learning, growth, and meaningful collaboration.
I have been in the landscaping industry since the spring of 2025. Prior to that, I have 6 years of experience in architecture and construction-related work.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and am a licensed Architect in the Philippines.
Light. Whether it’s natural or artificial, light shapes plant composition, defines spaces, and adds drama to the landscape, especially at night.
Seeing a drawing come to life and knowing that people get to live in and experience the space as it was imagined is incredibly fulfilling.
Michael Frerichs
I've always loved working in a field that has allowed me to see a project go from being just a thought to a space that can be lived in and enjoyed. Landscape design has the ability to bring a sense of joy and excitement to people's daily lives and I'm happy to have a small part in that.
Working at NWLD there's a real sense of teamwork and community that makes going into the office something to look forward to.
I've worked in the industry since spring of 2024.
I have a degree in Architecture from the University of Illinois and over 10 years experience in the design field.
I love using my design skills to help people bring their ideas to life.
Living in a major city I love finding ways to incorporate nature and plants into spaces and making them feel more natural and welcoming.
Luis Gonzalez
I love transforming spaces into beautiful, functional environments.
At NWLD, we foster a collaborative team environment.
I've dedicated 6 years to the landscaping industry.
I hold a Certificate(s) from ILCA in Field Staff Skill Training.
My favorite materials to work with are different types of plants and trees.
Nature
Jose Guijosa
I like all the different plants we work with.
I really enjoy working as a team to accomplish our goals.
15 years
n/a
Mulch
To learn something new every day.
Ken Johnson
Creating beautiful outdoor spaces that people can enjoy as an extension of their home.
The staff here is amazing. Everyone here is highly organized, very knowledgeable and supportive of each other.
I've been in the landscape industry for more than 22 years working in both New York and Michigan.
I have a degree in Environmental Policies from Michigan State University.
I like working with dirt and getting my hands dirty.
Simply, my love for the outdoors. I also enjoy working alongside clients throughout the process of the project and being able to share the experience together.
Victor Lara
Landscape is my passion. I love planting , designing, irrigation and lighting.
The way everyone works together, how every person jumps in and gives ideas.
10 years
Irrigation certification
Irrigation and lighting.
My passion and love for landscaping and my daughter Bella.
Terri Marino
I love how thoughtful design can change the way a space feels and functions…from a place you avoid to a space that beckons you to stay, from messy to orderly, or from boring to inspiring. I love that you can create whatever feeling you want with the right plants and hardscape.
I love this team’s commitment to the work. We don’t just go through the motions here - we are dedicated to creating beautiful spaces and excellent experiences for every client. There’s a deep commitment to learning and growing so we keep getting better at what we do.
I’ve been a gardener for decades, and I’ve worked with Nathan Wright Landscape Design since 2023.
I have a BA in Economics from NYU.
Perennial flowers. I love knowing they will bloom again each year and witnessing a perennial garden evolve over time. Year one is such a different experience than year five or ten…gardens grow, change, and are most beautiful and healthy when tended to regularly, just like people!
The joy that a beautiful outdoor space brings to all involved - clients, our team, and the people who see our finished work in real life and online.
Ian Paulo Mendoza
More than just creating beautiful greenspaces, I love how landscapes bring ecological benefits and provide ecosystem services that impact communities well beyond property boundaries.
I appreciate how NWLD and its team bring together diverse professional strengths and capabilities. The guidance and support from each member create a welcoming and collaborative environment.
I've been in the landscaping industry for 7 years.
6 years
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry with a major in Urban Forestry and am a Licensed Forester. I recently completed a Graduate Diploma in Landscape Studies and am now completing my Master’s in Landscape Architecture.
I enjoy working with native plants because they reflect the origin and character of a project site.
My inspiration comes from knowing that the landscapes we design and build can endure beyond our lifetimes, leaving something meaningful for future generations.
Hayden Regina
I have always had a strong affinity for planting design in urban conditions, but I love the rigor in what makes other people respond to it.
The NWLD team is well rounded with a variety of passions and interests which makes for creatively charged conversation and productive debate.
I've been somewhere between botanical gardens and landscape architecture studios for 15 years.
Bachelor of Architecture, Concentration in Landscape Architecture, Illinois Institute of Technology
Landscape Contracting and Environmental Horticulture, City College of San Francisco
Landscape ecologies, particularly in the form of urban relationships, as an intersection rather than a backdrop to the human experience.
Good architecture, unique materiality, ephemeral qualities of nature... the original influencer Martha Stewart, the production of Madonna's Confessions on a Dance Floor album, and the insane talent of Chicago's drag scene.
Theia The Garden Cat
My meows greet everyone who works at Nathan Wright Landscape Design. I enjoy watching over the plants that we use to create landscapes and I really love being a steward of the land.
I love that our naturalistic landscapes attract an abundance of wildlife and pollinators. I make friends with the bugs, birds, and butterflies. The team cares for me as much as they care for the plants!
I was born into this industry four years ago. I first worked with Callandar Garden Design and then I joined Nathan Wright Landscape Design after the team moved into the Callandar Garden Design building. They adopted me, and I found my new family! I am so happy to be here.
While I don’t have any official experience, I have become very skilled at keeping the rodents out of our plants and materials at our property in Logan Square. I’m not only watching over the plants, but I am loving the plants.
I love feeling the grasses on my face. Some of the grasses even taste good! The crew also lets me dig holes in the mulch. I love working with the different seasonal and colorful annuals and seeing them come and go through the yard.
I love witnessing plant growth and people growth! The team works really hard, and I love being a part of all of it.
It's More Than a Job
It's more than a job. When you start a career with us, you'll receive the training and support you need to advance within the company while creating exceptional landscapes throughout the Chicago area. We value mentorship, innovation, relationships, and teamwork. If this inspires you, we hope to hear from you.
Redefining Outdoor Beauty for Our Clients
At Nathan Wright Landscape Design, we work to earn your trust and respect to allow for close-knit collaboration on your outdoor living design and installation. Over the years, we've built close relationships with our clients, and we're delighted to hear they love their landscapes and their experiences with us.
Raising the Bar for Landscape Design in the
Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, IL, and the Surrounding Area
Bucktown, Illinois
Logan Square, IllinoisLogan Square, Illinois
Old Town, IllinoisOld Town, Illinois
Lakeview, IllinoisLakeview, Illinois
West Loop, IllinoisWest Loop, Illinois
Fulton Market, IllinoisFulton Market, Illinois
Oak Park, Illinois River Forest, IllinoisRiver Forest, Illinois
Evanston, IllinoisEvanston, Illinois
Gold Coast, IllinoisGold Coast, Illinois
Nathan Wright Landscape Design specializes in naturalistic perennial garden design, outdoor living installation, irrigation design and repair, and landscape maintenance with a focus on sustainability and client-centered creativity. We proudly serve residential and commercial clients in the entire Chicago, Illinois, area, including these communities:
Visit our Service Area page to learn more, and fill out our contact form when you're ready to grow with us.
Build Your Career In
Landscape Artistry with A Team of Experts
It's more than a job. When you start a career with us, you'll receive the training and support you need to advance within the company while creating exceptional landscapes throughout the Chicago area. We value mentorship, innovation, relationships, and teamwork. If this inspires you, we hope to hear from you. Apply today.
Elevate Your Outdoor Spaces with
Nathan Wright Landscape Design
At Nathan Wright Landscape Design, we are committed to exceptional landscaping artistry, fostering trusted relationships, and a deep sense of responsibility—to the environment, the community, our clients, and ourselves as artists and skilled professionals. We take pride in utilizing our talents and proficiency to create sustainable, inspiring outdoor spaces for residential and commercial properties in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, and surrounding communities.
Embark on a unique and intentional landscaping journey with us, where communication, meticulous planning, and client-focused creativity are at the core of our approach. We provide a comprehensive range of design, installation, and maintenance services that cater to your specific needs, including outdoor living spaces, lawn and garden care, seasonal color, rooftop gardens, irrigation and drainage systems, tree services, seasonal cleanups, and more. We look forward to creating transformative outdoor spaces that align with your vision for your outdoor environment. Get in touch with us today.