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Founder/Principal
RLA, FASLA
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, Pennsylvania.
For over 30 years, Christopher LaGuardia, has been committed to the advancement of landscape architecture on the eastern end of Long Island.
In practice, he integrates the needs and habitat of people with the natural landscape in clear and understandable terms.
Over the years, the LaGuardia Design Group’s award-winning work has garnered both local and national recognition for its environmentally conscious approach. Chris lectures widely about the importance of the profession as it relates to climate change, sustainability and quality of life issues.
Board positions held include the Lake George Land Conservancy, the Lake George Club, and the Cultural Landscape Foundation in Washington, D.C.
Away from work Chris enjoys spending time with his growing family, collecting local art works, competitive tennis, mediocre golf and boating.

Partner
ASLA
Jane has been a vital member of the executive team at LaGuardia Design since 1996. Her work spans many facets of the company including management, finance, marketing and public relations. Prior to her work at LaGuardia Design Jane taught Horticulture at a public high school, worked in the retail trade and provided consultation services for private estates.
Jane holds degrees in ornamental horticulture from Cobleskill College and a Bachelor’s Degree in agriculture from the University of Georgia where she studied under plant guru Dr.Michael Dirr.

Partner
RLA, ASLA, ISA CA
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York State
Alex Bluedorn is a Partner at LaGuardia Design, as well as a licensed Landscape Architect and Certified Arborist in New York State. With nearly two decades of experience, Alex leads design teams through every project phase, from initial concept to construction documentation.
His award-winning work has earned ASLA Honor Awards and been featured in publications such as Architectural Record and Hamptons Cottage & Gardens. Alex has also served as a juror for the ASLA-NY Awards.
Alex graduated with distinction from the University of Rhode Island, where he received the Rhode Island ASLA Award for Excellence in the Study of Landscape Architecture and served as a teaching assistant for plant identification and design theory courses.
Outside of work, Alex resides in Sag Harbor with his wife and two daughters. In his spare time, he enjoys surfing, paddleboarding, and fitness.

Principal
RLA, ASLA, LEED Green Associate
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York State
Matthew's interest in landscape architecture started with a love of the outdoors and an appreciation for how things are built. He graduated from Cornell University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture and joined the LaGuardia Design team shortly after. In 2017, he became a licensed Landscape Architect in New York State and later earned his LEED Green Associate credential, reinforcing his commitment to thoughtful, sustainable design. Today, as a Principal at LaGuardia Design, Matthew helps lead projects from concept through construction, working closely with clients and project teams to ensure each landscape is thoughtfully designed and successfully executed.
Over the past decade at LaGuardia Design, Matthew has been involved in all phases of the design and construction process, from early concepts through project completion. He enjoys collaborating with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to create landscapes that feel natural, function well, and stand the test of time. He believes the best outdoor spaces aren't just beautiful - they're places people genuinely want to spend time in, whether that's gathering with family, entertaining friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment outside.

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Associate
ASLA
Bryan received his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in 2022. He completed his senior thesis study on contemporary biodiversity management in San Francisco. The study was a product of his interests in native plant community design and ecosystem services.
Growing up in the valleys of central New York, Bryan developed an appreciation for the natural landscape. He pursued landscape architecture as it combines his passion for design and environmental science. During the years before joining the office, he was able to travel abroad to countries such as Spain, Italy, and Brazil. He further developed his appreciation for different cultures including their history, language and food. His experiences have influenced his understanding of landscape design.
Outside of the office he enjoys experiencing the outdoors, pursuing creative outlets, and planning his next trip abroad. He is excited to join a team of passionate individuals on the forefront of contemporary landscape design.

Senior Associate
ASLA
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York State
Sama graduated from University of Tehran with a degree in Urban Planning & Design in 2016. During her last year of undergraduate studies, she fell in love with landscape architecture and moved to the United States to pursue a master’s in landscape architecture at Cornell University. After graduating from Cornell in 2019, Sama spent a year working with multidisciplinary design teams on public landscape projects in New York City. Sama’s education and professional experience have instilled in her a passion for the intricacies in landscape design and the coalescence of the natural and cultivated landscapes.
Sama finds inspiration from her travels across countries and loves to find the stories behind each landscape. In her free time, Sama enjoys figure skating, dancing, yoga, and cycling.

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Associate
ASLA, AIA
Born and raised on the East End of Long Island, Bryce developed an appreciation for the Hamptons' unique landscapes and architecture at an early age. Growing up on construction sites with his father, a custom home builder, sparked his passion for design and craftsmanship. He earned a B.S. in Architecture from Roger Williams University and now applies that foundation to the practice of landscape architecture.

Outside of the office, you may catch him partaking in sport, soaking in some fine art, or stopping to smell the roses.

Associate
Maricca, a University of Santo Tomas alumna with a BS in Architecture, is an accomplished architect with a diverse portfolio that includes commercial, residential, and subdivision projects. She has worked alongside top developers in the Philippines, gaining extensive experience.
Now joining a team of landscape architects, Maricca is eager to apply her expertise and creativity in this new role.
Outside of her professional life, she enjoys traveling and discovering new cities.

Associate
ASLA
Originally from Northern Michigan, Hana grew up with an appreciation for natural systems and a love for the restorative feel of coastal landscapes. Spending time outdoors, and experimenting with fiber design in a local art studio, sparked her interest in how landscape and craft connect, eventually leading her toward a career in landscape architecture.
Hana earned a Master's of Landscape Architecture from the University of Oregon and a Bachelor's in Environmental Science from the University of Michigan. She began her career in Boston, MA, where she gained experience in public parks and community-driven design, deepening her passion for collaborating with users to create socially and ecologically resilient urban spaces.
Outside the studio, Hana is usually on the move, wandering Prospect Park with a coffee in hand and snacks in tow, or involved in a competitive game of Euchre with friends and family.

Associate
ASLA
Elliot holds professional degrees from Cornell University and the Harvard University Graduate School of Design. He joins the LaGuardia Design team after several years in Boston with leading firms including MVVA, Sasaki and OJB, where he contributed to diverse projects across scales and typologies.
Outside of the studio, Elliot enjoys tennis, recreational soccer, and relishing his role as the favorite uncle to his niece.

Intern
Amelia is a recent graduate of Cornell University, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture, with a concentration in Conservation and Ecology Studies. There, she worked as a studio teaching assistant and worked in digital fabrication, which cemented her passion for hands-on design. She is also a 2025 CELA Fountain scholar.
Growing up in Roslyn, NY, she was an avid gardener and artist, which led her to the field of landscape architecture. As a Long Island native, she is excited to explore the landscapes of the East End.
Outside of the studio, you can find her rock climbing, writing postcards, or lost in her sketchbook.

Public Relations
After spending her childhood weekends walking around job sites and garden tours, it only seemed natural for Charlotte to take a more active role in the office and she officially joined the LDG team.
In 2014 Charlotte graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Education and Psychology from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA. Upon graduation Charlotte returned home to Sag Harbor to pursue her career as a yoga instructor. She has recently completed her Master’s Degree in Clinical Nutrition and has a keen interest in helping people pursue their health goals. Charlotte's Thrive East Nutrition explores Integrative and Clinical Nutrition standards, and her office is based out of Water Mill. When she is not meeting with clients, Charlotte spends her time at LaGuardia Design managing the social media accounts and handling various office projects.

Associate
Jake has a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture from Bulacan State University. With nine years of professional experience, he has been involved in a wide range of projects including residential and commercial developments, public parks, and large-scale master planning.
Growing up in the rural landscapes of the Philippines, surrounded by the richness of nature, he draws deep inspiration from his upbringing. This connection to the natural environment continues to influence his design philosophy -creating spaces that harmonize functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic value.
Outside of work, he is an avid adventurer who enjoys nature trekking, free diving, surfing, paragliding, and aquascaping.

CFO
Lauren is a valuable member of the LaGuardia Design Team. She manages the firm's billing and book-keeping, and is always coming up with new ways to help the firm financially.

TEAM

As the studio’s work has been increasingly recognized, LaGuardia Design Group has grown, with offices in Water Mill and New York City. The firm is led by a talented team including Chris LaGuardia, Jane LaGuardia, partner Alex Bluedorn, and principals Matthew Horvath and John Hamilton. LDG’s portfolio includes residential, cultural, hospitality, and commercial landscapes across Manhattan, New England, Florida, and the Caribbean.

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Principal
RLA, ASLA
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York State
Connecticut
John joined the LaGuardia Design studio in 2017, after spending multiple years working in the design-build industry on the East End of Long Island. He received his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from SUNY Environmental Science and Forestry in 2013 including time spent living and studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain.
He has managed multiple award winning projects at the firm including ‘Dune Meadow’ (NY ASLA Honor Award 2022), ‘Marine Meadow’ (NY ASLA Honor Award 2021), ‘Cove Hollow Farm’ (Luxe RED Regional Winner 2023), and ‘Jule Pond’ (Interior Design Mag Best of Year Residential Landscape 2024).
Recently promoted to Principal of the firm, John helps guide colleagues in the office from the concept phase through to construction administration. He routinely works with teams of consultants, jurisdictional agencies, and project stakeholders on all aspects of site planning and project implementation.
John has managed large scale residential construction projects throughout the Northeastern US while at LDG. He is a licensed Landscape Architect and currently resides in Nissequogue, NY.

NYC Studio Director
RLA, ASLA
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York State, New Jersey, and Connecticut
Carl is a Registered Landscape Architect in New York and Connecticut, with extensive experience in landscape construction management and sustainable design practices.
Carl comes to LaGuardia after leading park construction and conservation initiatives for a private non-profit which included projects in New York, Maine, South Carolina, Chile, Uruguay, and Argentina.
An active member of the ASLA, Carl previously served as president and now serves as treasurer of the New York Chapter. He joined LaGuardia in 2022 to lead the New York studio in Manhattan where he lives with his wife.

Director of Marketing & Site Services
ASLA
Kerry Godfrey is the Director of Marketing & Site Services at LaGuardia Design Group, where she leads the firm's marketing, communications, brand strategy, and public relations efforts. Since joining the firm in 2020, she has played an integral role in elevating LDG's national presence through award submissions, digital marketing, social media, publications, and events.
In addition to overseeing marketing initiatives, Kerry manages the outdoor furniture and accessories division for LaGuardia Site Services, coordinating every phase of the process - from sourcing and procurement to logistics, installation, and white-glove client service. Working closely with leading luxury outdoor brands, she helps create thoughtfully curated outdoor living environments that complement each landscape.
Kerry earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art & Photography from the University of Delaware. Her passion for travel and design was shaped through living abroad before returning to her hometown of Southampton. Her creative background, global perspective, and attention to detail continue to inform her work, bringing a thoughtful, design-driven approach to both marketing and client experience.

Senior Project Manager
RLS, ASLA
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York State
Justin earned his Bachelor's in Architecture and Environmental Design from the University at Buffalo before pursuing a Masters of Landscape Architecture at Cornell University. After graduating in 2019, he joined the firm, where he combines his backgrounds in architecture and landscape architecture to create thoughtful, integrated designs that seamlessly connect the built and natural environments.

Justin has managed private residential, hospitality, and resort projects throughout New York, South Florida, and the Caribbean, giving him extensive experience designing across a wide range of landscapes, project types, and environmental conditions. His work has contributed to multiple award-winning projects, including recognition in The Architect's Newspaper 2018 Best of Design Awards through a collaboration with SCAPE on the Public Sediment for Alameda Creek project.

Originally from Sloatsburg, New York, Justin now resides on the East End of Long Island with his wife. Outside the office, he enjoys golfing, fishing, and seeking out his next outdoor adventure.

Associate
ASLA
Parker graduated in the spring of 2020 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Landscape Architecture. Soon after, he joined LaGuardia Design Group and moved out of Ohio for the first time.
He was interested in the unique and abundant architecture of the Hamptons as well as the fitting landscapes that accompanied it. During the summer of 2019, Parker interned in Southampton, solidifying his plans to move to New York full time. Through his love for nature photography, hiking, and design, Parker stumbled upon the profession right before college and has been dedicated to the field of landscape architecture ever since. He believes that the natural aesthetic, incorporated with environmentalism, and functionality creates the most inspiring designs.
In his free time, Parker likes to play sports, explore local sites, take pictures, and socialize with friends. His fondness for photography has led him to travel the country to national parks out west in search of the best hikes and beautiful views.

Associate
ASLA
Originally from Columbus, Indiana, Stephen developed his passion for landscape architecture while earning a Bachelor of Arts in Urbanism from Indiana University, where he was recognized as a William Plater Scholar, Sam Jones Civic Engagement Scholar, and MURI Scholar. He later earned a Master of Landscape Architecture from Boston Architectural College and a Master of Urban Design from the City College of New York.
Stephen is an active leader within ASLA New York, where he serves on the Executive Board and as Co-Chair of the Programs Committee. He is passionate about advancing the profession through advocacy, education, and collaboration with allied organizations, while creating opportunities that strengthen connections within the design community.
Outside of the studio, Stephen enjoys exploring cities, traveling, and experiencing new landscapes—continually drawing inspiration from the relationship between people, culture, and place.

Associate
ASLA
Anir Dighe, a native of India, earned a Bachelor's Degree in Architecture from Pune University. Driven by his passion for blending the built environment with natural landscapes, he pursued a Master's Degree in Landscape Architecture at the Boston Architectural College. There, his work earned him an American Society of Landscape Architects Merit Award and an Excellence in Thesis Award.

Drawing inspiration from his Indian heritage and cultural landscapes, Anir's expertise spans both architecture and landscape architecture, making him a valuable addition to the LDG team. His unique Indian perspective, rooted in his culture, adds a distinctive dimension to our team, fostering a dynamic blend of Long Island natives and international talents.

Associate
Severo has over twenty years of experience in Architecture and Landscape Architecture. He's participated in a wide range of large scale projects in Southeast Asia and China from preliminary Conceptual Design stage to Design Development stage through Working Drawings.
He has a broad experience in large scale projects ranging from Community Parks, Mixed-Use Commercial Development, Wetland Parks, Resort Hotels and High-End Residential Development. As a LEED- Accredited Professional he's able to integrate sustainable principles into the design projects. Joining LaGuardia Design Group in 2023, his solid architectural background, which fosters an artistic and technical insight in Landscape Design and Master Planning, will be a great asset to the team.

Associate
Arnie graduated with a Bachelor Degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of the Philippines - Diliman. She is a current member of the Philippine Association of Landscape Architects (PALA) and International Federation of Landscape Architects - Asia Pacific Region (IFLA-APR).
Joining Laguardia Design Group in January of 2023, Arnie brings her many years of experience in landscape architecture to the company. Her design knowledge, project management skills along with 3D and rendering experience, make her a great asset to LDG. Her ultimate goal is to create beautiful landscapes and outdoor spaces for people to be together and enjoy.

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Senior Project Manager
RLA, ASLA, LEED Green Associate
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York State
Thackston is a graduate of Clemson University, where he received a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. After working in Boston, MA as a landscape designer for Crowley Cottrell he went on to pursue a Masters of Landscape Architecture from Cornell University. Thackston’s education and professional experiences have instilled in him a passion and love for design and a belief in the transformative power of good design.
Thackston’s work has been recognized by awards such as the American Society of Landscape Architects Student Honor Award in 2015, a Boston Society of Landscape Architects Honor Award in 2016, and was named a 2016 University Olmsted Scholar by the Landscape Architecture Foundation.
Originally a native of South Carolina, Thackston draws inspiration from the rural landscapes that surrounded him growing up and influenced his pursuit of Landscape Architecture. Thackston now calls Sag Harbor home and enjoys exploring Long Island’s diverse and beautiful landscapes.

Senior Project Manager
RLA, ASLA
[PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE]
New York State
Sarah graduated Magna Cum Laude from SUNY-ESF in May 2016, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. While at SUNY-ESF, Sarah traveled to Christchurch, New Zealand to complete her capstone on temporary transitional projects. She is interested in integrating her knowledge of environmental sustainability and resiliency into beautiful and meaningful designs.
A native to Long Island, Sarah grew up in Lake Grove, NY. Prior to joining LaGuardia Design in October 2016, Sarah participated in two internships in New York City, where she gained firsthand experience in high end residential design and city planning.

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