Urban planner devoted to city aesthetics enhancement: Transforming concrete jungles into gardens of delight
Wambui Ippolito, a renowned figure in the landscape design world, is known for her imaginative and natural approach to outdoor spaces[1][2]. With a focus on integrating native plants and fostering a deep connection to the local ecological context, Ippolito's work is both beautiful and functional.
Growing up in East Africa, Ippolito's childhood experiences have greatly influenced her design philosophy. Her connection to the land and nature is evident in her work, which often features native plants reminiscent of her home in Kenya[1].
Ippolito's career in landscape design began early, with work placements at esteemed estates such as David Letterman's and Martha Stewart's garden in Bedford, New York[1]. After moving to Washington DC at the age of 14, she later studied international development, but her true passion lay outside. In her twenties, Ippolito worked as a democracy consultant in Washington, but her love for the outdoors eventually led her to pursue horticulture full-time.
Ippolito's work can be found on her website, wambuidesign.com[1]. She is currently in demand on the lecture circuit and as a consultant, helping institutions and museums develop horticultural programming[2]. Her influence extends to urban reforestation, with her focus on naturalistic design and planting strategies that promote biodiversity and sustainability[1].
Recently, Ippolito was named by Veranda magazine as one of '11 revolutionary female landscape designers and architects' in 2021[2]. She is based in New York and primarily practices on the East Coast, working on large estates in the Westchester area[2].
In addition to her professional work, Ippolito is also caring for her mother's garden in Nairobi, one of the few remaining pockets of original forestland[1]. Her mother, an avid gardener, played a significant role in fostering Ippolito's interest in plants.
Looking to the future, Ippolito is working on a book titled Terra Nova, which will be published by Timber Press in 2026[3]. Details about the book's content are currently unavailable, but it is expected to reflect Ippolito's unique perspective and passion for landscape design.
Ippolito is also interested in working with cities and municipalities to beautify them and reforest large tracts of land[1]. With her innovative approach and deep connection to nature, Ippolito continues to make a significant impact on the landscape design industry.
[1] https://www.wambuidesign.com/ [2] https://www.verandamagazine.com/design/landscape-designers/ [3] https://www.timberpress.com/ [4] https://www.nybg.org/school-of-professional-horticulture/
- Wambui Ippolito, a celebrated figure in the landscape design world, integrates native plants and fosters a connection to local ecology in her natural approach to outdoor spaces.
- Ippolito's work often features plants reminiscent of her Kenyan home, reflecting her childhood experiences in East Africa.
- Ippolito began her career in landscape design with work placements at prestigious estates, including David Letterman's and Martha Stewart's garden in New York.
- After studying international development, Ippolito pursued horticulture full- time, as her love for the outdoors proved to be her true passion.
- Ippolito's work can be found on her website, wambuidesign.com, and she works primarily on the East Coast, often on large estates in the Westchester area.
- Ippolito is currently working on a book titled Terra Nova, which is expected to reflect her unique perspective and passion for landscape design and will be published by Timber Press in 2026.
