June 5, 2017

Meet John Copley of Copley Wolff Design Group in Downtown

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to John Copley.

John, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As you can see from my picture, I have always loved digging in the dirt, being outside, and creating unforgettable outdoor spaces. I received a degree in both Landscape Architecture and Architecture and I started my own Landscape Architectural design firm and studio in 1984. In 2002, I joined forces with Lynn Wolff to form Copley Wolff Design Group. Our first significant project was the surface restoration for the Central Artery/Tunnel and the subsequent design of the Wharf District Parks on the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Other notable projects in the historic Back Bay include the restoration of Frog Pond and the TADpole Playground in the Boston Common, the site design for Restoration Hardware on Newbury/Boylston Street, and the design of the St. James Street Garden at Liberty Mutual. Currently, we are providing landscape planning and design services for major mixed-use developments in Boston’s South End, the Seaport, East Boston, and the Bulfinch Triangle.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The easy part is designing. It’s what I love to do. The entire journey has been both challenging and rewarding. The biggest challenge with running a Landscape Architecture firm is finding and retaining clients, getting the work done and believe it or not, getting paid! Growing the business through personal relationships is sometimes difficult but can also be fun. I have made some great friendships along the way.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Copley Wolff Design Group – what should we know?
Copley Wolff Design Group is a landscape architecture and planning firm that plans and designs urban, mixed-use, academic, housing, green roof and roof deck, healthcare, corporate, children’s play and discovery, park, and waterfront landscape projects. Our client list includes developers, municipalities, architects, and academic, cultural, public, and private institutions. We create memorable landscapes for human interaction, comfort, and inspiration.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Developing a thorough understanding of what the client and the community wants and then providing imaginative designs with the highest quality.

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