Lake Erie Land Company

Imagine open prairie where children can explore the wonders of nature but remain close to their neighborhood homes. Imagine a resurgence of native species unseen for decades and a place where homes, shops, and business centers will evolve slowly instead of overnight. A place where the most advanced thinking about environmental design, urban planning and landscape ecology are working in harmony with each other instead of at odds. These elements are the smart growth building blocks for the environmentally sustainable community called Coffee Creek.

Working with an impressive array of consultants over a period of several years, the landscape architect developed a groundbreaking master plan to promote diversity and integrate northwestern Indiana residents with a preserved and restored natural ecosystem. The ambitious plan includes a conservancy park, overlooks, boardwalks, bridges, trails, streetscaping, and plazas all constructed with natural materials for flexibility, beauty, and ease of movement.    

Serving as an inspirational model for future developments, this 640-acre community has been recognized nationally by the Urban Land Institute, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Department of Energy.