Passion for Ecological Landscape Design

As a lifelong learner, I’m fascinated by the dynamic nature of our native and edible landscapes. As a kid, my mom’s ecological gardens and work on organic farms helped shape my view of how the landscape can be - not only beautiful but safe, healthy and nourishing.

As I earned degrees in Applied Ecology [B.S.] and Landscape Architecture [M.L.A.], I decided to become a certified permaculture designer, to bring a holistic approach to the edible garden landscape, small homestead plans and native habitat restoration. 

Learning in a hands-on way with some of my permaculture heroes, I’ve received both a PDC and APDC [Advanced Permaculture Design Certificate]. This helps me to look beyond just the plants and materials of the landscape, helping home and property owners create positive systems that build soil, store water and create climate resilience while providing healthy food for humans and wildlife alike.

My philosophy is rooted in the reality that we can layer many benefits into a low-maintenance, ecological landscape design that will look beautiful to anyone who sees it, provide a surplus of resources, and become a place of peace and rest for all beings who call it home.

The time has come for our landscapes to do much more than just look pretty. We can be part of a global movement just by making smart landscape choices that not only benefit the environment, but also save money in many cases. This is why I love to listen and share knowledge as part of a collaborative effort with every client. Knowing what you need, and knowing what your property is truly capable of, we can do great things.

May your landscape be a source of peace, good memories, and nourishment.

~Pete

What People Are Saying

  • ML - Roseville, MN

    “

    Since we know zero about landscaping, I'm sure that working with Pete at the outset will ultimately save us thousands of dollars worth of mistakes. The plans are clear and detailed, so we can do everything ourselves if we are able, or we can show the plan to a contractor down the line and they can just plug in exactly what Pete has plotted out. Highly recommend.

    ”

  • SM - River Falls, WI

    “

    Pete created a beautiful landscape design for us with native plants and lovely patios and walkways. He listened carefully to what wanted and spent time on our property to take in its views and growing conditions to create plantings that fit our place and use. He was easy to communicate with knowledge about native landscaping. I highly recommend him

    ”

  • MA - St. Paul, MN

    “

    Pete Widin at Artisan Environments did an excellent job developing a plan that incorporated our diverse design requirements, including accommodating the requests of the Capitol Region Watershed District clean water program. The documents he provided are clear and easy to understand, and will allow us to create the final product ourselves as desired. We highly recommend Artisan Environments!

    ”

  • JQ - Cambridge, MN

    “

    We were fortunate to have learned about Artisan Environments before purchased the future homestead property of our dreams. Pete helped us evaluate everything from the soil types and tree species to the spatial flow and fencing plan. Having discussed potential usage of each area of the property we felt much more confident about our decision to purchase the land and commission a custom landscape design. My only suggestion to other potential clients is that you ask if it'd be possible to pay to have the final design prints laminated since they are masterpieces.

    ”

  • CS - Stillwater, MN

    “

    Pete has been incredible to work with! Not only are we impressed with the plan he developed for us, but we feel confident about implementing it because of the extensive instructions and resource lists he provided. Can’t say enough about the extent of his expertise, and his willingness to share it with us (even after his consulting with us was “officially” done). We’re excited to bring our plan to life, and are so grateful for the care and passion that Pete poured into it. Working with him was a really great experience!

    ”

If you’re interested in professional ecological, native and edible landscape plans for your Minnesota or Wisconsin property, please fill out the form below to initiate a free phone consultation.