Business Details
38 Years
experience
Expert Landscape & Garden Design Services in Connecticut & New York
Spring Lake Garden Design was founded by Ian Gribble and Catharine Cooke, whose combined expertise in horticulture and landscape design has transformed properties across Connecticut and New York. With over 50 years of professional gardening experience, the founders bring a holistic approach to every project, emphasizing the integration of home and land to create spaces that reflect the natural beauty of their surroundings. Ian's background in horticulture, including formal training at The New York Botanical Garden, ensures plants are selected for optimal growth conditions, while Catharine's design sensibilities focus on architectural harmony, light, and texture. The firm's commitment to sustainability is evident in projects that prioritize native plants, eco-friendly materials, and the removal of invasive species. Active in their community, the team has contributed to local land trusts, designed award-winning public gardens, and volunteered for initiatives like the Make-a-Wish Foundation.Their work has been featured in publications such as Fine Gardening and Aspire Metro, as well as on numerous garden tours. Clients praise the firm's ability to translate personal visions into functional, aesthetically cohesive outdoor spaces that enhance property value and livability. The company maintains full licensing and insurance, collaborating with licensed engineers and subcontractors to ensure structural integrity and compliance with local codes. From initial consultation to installation, Spring Lake Garden Design prioritizes client collaboration, offering tailored solutions for residential and commercial properties. This dedication to quality, experience, and community engagement has solidified its reputation as a trusted leader in landscape design.
Services
Landscape Design
Hardscape Installation
Garden Consultation
Native Plant Landscaping
Outdoor Living Spaces
Pool Area Design
Stone Wall Construction
Rooftop Garden Design
Eco-Friendly Landscaping
Property Reclamation
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of combined experience in horticulture and landscape design.
- Our holistic approach integrates architecture with natural surroundings for cohesive spaces.
- We prioritize sustainable practices, including native plant selection and invasive species removal.
- Our team collaborates with licensed engineers and subcontractors for structural integrity.
- Award-winning designs featured in Fine Gardening and Aspire Metro magazines.
What people say
Transformed property beautifully
Expert sustainable practices
Award-winning designs
Collaborative approach
Community involvement
Services
Landscape Design
Spring Lake Garden Design creates custom landscape plans that harmonize with existing architecture and natural surroundings. Our process begins with client consultations to understand lifestyle needs and aesthetic preferences. We incorporate native plants, seasonal interest, and sustainable materials to ensure low-maintenance, ecologically responsible spaces that evolve beautifully through the seasons.
Hardscape Installation
We design and install durable hardscape elements including patios, stone walls, pergolas, and pool areas. Our team collaborates with licensed engineers to ensure structural integrity while maintaining aesthetic continuity with the property's architectural style. Projects feature premium materials like blue stone and custom carpentry for functional outdoor living spaces.
Native Plant Landscaping
Our native plant expertise creates resilient ecosystems that support local wildlife while reducing maintenance needs. We assess soil conditions and light exposure to select appropriate species, removing invasive plants and establishing biodiversity. This approach promotes environmental stewardship while creating seasonally dynamic gardens.
Outdoor Living Spaces
We transform backyards into functional entertainment zones with fire pits, dining areas, and shaded lounges. Designs incorporate weather-resistant materials, strategic lighting, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. Each project prioritizes comfort, durability, and aesthetic cohesion with the property's overall design.
Property Reclamation
Our team specializes in revitalizing neglected properties through invasive species removal, soil remediation, and topographical improvements. We address drainage issues, regrade slopes, and establish sustainable planting schemes to convert problematic areas into usable, attractive landscapes that enhance property value.
People
Ian Gribble
Co-Founder / Horticulturist
Ian manages land design and plant selection, leveraging his New York Botanical Garden diploma and UK farming background. He focuses on matching plants to environmental conditions for optimal growth and sustainability.
Catharine Cooke
Co-Founder / Landscape Designer
Catharine leads design projects with a Parsons School of Design background and 16 years in graphic arts. Her expertise includes spatial planning, architectural integration, and creating award-winning garden spaces featured in national publications.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Connecticut and New York, with design consultations available nationwide.
Do you handle both design and installation?
Yes, we provide full-service design and installation, working with trusted local contractors for specialized tasks.
How do you incorporate sustainability?
We prioritize native plants, remove invasives, use eco-friendly materials, and design for natural water management.
Can you work with existing landscapes?
Absolutely. We assess current conditions and create improvement plans that enhance what works while addressing problem areas.
What project sizes do you handle?
We work on properties of all sizes, from small urban gardens to large estates with complex terrain.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, we maintain full licensing and insurance, and work only with vetted professional subcontractors.
