Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Landscape Architecture in Cleveland
BEHNKE Landscape Architecture has been a Cleveland-based leader in landscape architecture and planning for over 65 years. Our firm specializes in designing outdoor spaces that are vital, sustainable, and beautiful, serving communities across urban, suburban, and rural environments. With expertise in master planning, green infrastructure, and public-private partnerships, we deliver award-winning solutions for athletic facilities, botanical gardens, healthcare campuses, and more. Our team combines artistry with technical precision, blending ecology, engineering, and horticulture to create functional, aesthetically compelling environments. Recognized with nearly 100 national and regional awards, we remain committed to advancing Northeast Ohios landscapes through innovative design and community collaboration.Our experience spans diverse project types, including historic restoration, alternative transportation systems, and mixed-use developments. We prioritize cost-effective strategies, funding identification, and public engagement to maximize value for clients. Headquartered in Clevelands Tremont neighborhood since 2018, our legacy of excellence continues through a multidisciplinary team of registered landscape architects and designers. We approach every project with a dedication to sustainability, technical rigor, and the creation of spaces that enrich daily life. This philosophy has made us a trusted partner for institutions, municipalities, and developers seeking transformative outdoor environments.
Services
Athletic Facilities
Alternative Transportation
Botanical Gardens
Cemeteries
Green Infrastructure
Historic Restoration
K-12 Schools
Health Care Facilities
Mixed-Use Development
Streetscapes
Details
- Year established: 1959
Highlights and features
- We have over 65 years of experience in landscape architecture and urban planning.
- Our team holds nearly 100 national and regional design awards.
- We specialize in green infrastructure and sustainable development strategies.
- Our multidisciplinary approach integrates art, ecology, and engineering expertise.
- We maintain strong relationships with public and private partners for effective project delivery.
Associations and certifications
- City of Cleveland Certified Small Business
- Cuyahoga County Small Business Enterprise
- Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District Small Business Enterprise
- ODOT-Prequalified for Bicycle Facilities & Enhancement Design
Services
Athletic Facilities
We design athletic facilities that combine functionality with aesthetic appeal. Our expertise includes stadiums, fields, and training complexes tailored to community needs. Projects integrate sustainable materials and ADA-compliant accessibility features.
Green Infrastructure
Our green infrastructure solutions manage stormwater and enhance urban ecosystems. We implement rain gardens, permeable pavements, and bioswales to reduce environmental impact. These systems improve water quality while creating attractive public spaces.
Historic Restoration
We specialize in restoring historic landscapes while preserving cultural significance. Our approach balances modern functionality with period-appropriate materials. Projects include revitalizing gardens, plazas, and memorial sites for contemporary use.
Alternative Transportation
We design pedestrian and cycling infrastructure that connects communities. Our work includes trails, bike lanes, and multi-use paths. These systems promote health while reducing urban traffic congestion and carbon emissions.
Mixed-Use Development
We create vibrant mixed-use spaces that integrate residential, commercial, and recreational areas. Our designs prioritize walkability and green spaces. Projects foster community engagement through thoughtfully planned public gathering areas.
People
Marie Dowling
President
Registered Landscape Architect with expertise in urban design and sustainable development. Leads firm strategy while maintaining active project involvement. ASLA member with LEED accreditation.
Andrew Steingass
Landscape Architect
Experienced designer focused on public spaces and campus planning. Specializes in integrating ecological principles with functional design requirements. Active in professional design organizations.
Chapin Berk
Landscape Architect
Registered professional with expertise in park design and community engagement. Brings technical precision to complex urban redevelopment projects. ASLA member with regional award recognition.
Jeff Knopp
Principal Emeritus
Senior advisor with decades of experience in large-scale infrastructure projects. Provides mentorship while maintaining involvement in key design initiatives. Holds multiple professional certifications.
Tom Zarfoss
Principal Emeritus
Fellow of ASLA with specialization in healthcare campus design. Contributes strategic vision while remaining engaged in select high-profile projects. Recognized for innovative therapeutic landscape solutions.
Questions
What types of projects does BEHNKE specialize in?
We focus on athletic facilities, green infrastructure, historic restoration, alternative transportation systems, and mixed-use developments across urban and rural environments.
How long has BEHNKE been in business?
Our firm has provided landscape architecture services since 1959, with our current iteration established in Cleveland's Tremont neighborhood since 2018.
Do you work on both public and private projects?
Yes, we collaborate with municipalities, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and private developers on diverse projects throughout Northeast Ohio.
What makes BEHNKE different from other firms?
Our multidisciplinary approach combines art, ecology, and engineering with 65+ years of regional experience and nearly 100 design awards recognizing our innovative solutions.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We implement green infrastructure systems, use locally sourced materials, and prioritize native plantings to create environmentally responsible spaces that reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Can you help identify funding sources for projects?
Yes, our team has experience securing grants and identifying public-private partnership opportunities to support project implementation and long-term viability.
