Business Details
Expert Landscape Architecture Solutions in East Orange, NJ
Edgewater Design is a landscape architecture firm dedicated to creating solutions that harmonize with both natural and built environments. With expertise in Civic, Institutional, Commercial, and Residential projects, we combine over three decades of collective experience in landscape architecture, urban design, and ecological planning. Our team, led by Founding Principal Jan Saltiel Rafel, ASLA, LEED AP, brings specialized knowledge in sustainable design, having worked on parks, corporate campuses, and private estates across the New York Metropolitan area. We prioritize collaboration with architects, engineers, and ecologists to deliver landscapes that enhance biodiversity, address climate challenges, and improve community well-being. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our LEED AP certification and recognition as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise in New Jersey and New York.By integrating native plant species with innovative materials and construction techniques, we ensure long-term functionality and aesthetic value in every project. Our hands-on approach spans concept design through construction administration, supported by deep familiarity with budgeting, permitting, and modern horticultural practices. We believe well-designed landscapes are essential to fostering environmental resilience and enriching human connections to place. Our portfolio demonstrates consistent success in translating complex site conditions into functional, ecologically responsible spaces that serve diverse community needs. This dedication to excellence has established us as trusted partners for clients seeking sustainable, context-sensitive design solutions.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Urban Design
Ecological Restoration
Green Infrastructure
Art in Landscapes
Highlights and features
- We specialize in diverse landscape architecture sectors including civic, institutional, and residential projects.
- Our team collaborates with architects, engineers, and ecologists for comprehensive design solutions.
- We integrate native species and sustainable practices to enhance biodiversity and climate resilience.
- LEED AP-certified professionals ensure environmentally responsible design expertise.
- Proven success in delivering built projects with budget and timeline adherence.
Associations and certifications
- LEED AP
- WBE
- DBE
- SBE
Services
Landscape Architecture
Our landscape architecture services create functional, aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces that balance human needs with environmental stewardship. We develop master plans, planting schemes, and hardscape designs for civic, commercial, and residential projects. Our approach integrates ecological principles with innovative design to create spaces that evolve positively over time.
Urban Design
Urban design solutions focus on creating walkable, sustainable communities through thoughtful public space planning and streetscape improvements. We address connectivity, accessibility, and environmental quality in urban environments. Our work enhances the relationship between built structures and public realms while supporting climate resilience goals.
Ecological Restoration
Ecological restoration services rehabilitate degraded ecosystems using native plant communities and natural hydrological patterns. We specialize in transforming industrial sites into thriving habitats that support biodiversity. Our techniques improve water quality, reduce erosion, and create educational opportunities for local communities through living landscapes.
Green Infrastructure
Green infrastructure implementation addresses stormwater management and climate adaptation through natural systems integration. We design bioswales, rain gardens, and permeable paving systems that reduce urban runoff while enhancing public spaces. These solutions provide measurable environmental benefits and long-term cost savings for municipalities and developers.
Art in Landscapes
Art integration services incorporate permanent installations and functional art elements into outdoor environments. We collaborate with artists to create site-specific works that enhance spatial experiences and community identity. Our approach ensures artistic elements complement ecological functions and withstand environmental conditions for lasting impact.
People
Jan Saltiel Rafel
Founding Principal
ASLA-certified landscape architect with 30+ years of experience in parks, corporate campuses, and residential estates. Holds a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from University of Florida and registered in NJ, NY, and PA.
Mukta Jadhav
Associate
Architecture-trained landscape architect with expertise in plant design and sustainable materials. Holds a Master of Landscape Architecture from Rutgers University and specializes in merging architectural principles with ecological design.
Questions
What services does Edgewater Design offer?
We provide landscape architecture, urban design, ecological restoration, green infrastructure planning, and art integration in landscapes for civic, commercial, and residential projects.
Are you certified in sustainable design practices?
Yes, we hold LEED AP certification and prioritize native plant species, permeable materials, and stormwater management systems in all our projects.
How do you collaborate with other professionals?
We work closely with architects, engineers, ecologists, and artists to create multidisciplinary solutions that address both aesthetic and functional requirements.
What geographic areas do you serve?
Our primary service area includes the New York Metropolitan region, covering New Jersey, New York City, and surrounding counties.
Can you handle both design and construction phases?
Yes, we offer full-service landscape architecture from concept design through construction administration, ensuring project vision continuity.
How do you address climate resilience in designs?
We incorporate climate-adaptive plant selections, sustainable drainage systems, and materials with low environmental impact to create resilient landscapes.
