10 with the Team: Kate Poppel
June 23, 2026
Meet Kate Poppel, a landscape architect whose work is shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and a deep understanding of people and place. In this interview, she shares what is inspiring her now and how landscape can bring greater depth to daily life.
How would you describe your creative point of view both at work and outside of it?
For me, creativity stems from exploring new places and being around people. Professionally, I thrive in collaboration- it’s a huge part of how ideas evolve. Outside of work, I’m most inspired when I’m experiencing something new, whether that’s traveling to a new city or revisiting an old one with friends. The common thread is people and place.
What are you into right now that’s influencing how you think or create?
The energy of New York City right now is really inspiring. Between the Knicks in the finals and the World Cup, there’s this collective sense of excitement and connection. It feels like the city has softened and people are more open, more social, and there’s a real sense of shared joy. That energy has definitely influenced how I’m thinking and creating lately.
Can you walk us through your process from idea to execution?
It starts with understanding the site. Being there, experiencing it firsthand, and learning from the people who know it best – whether that’s the client or the local community – is essential. From that foundation, ideas develop through conversation and iteration. I’ve learned to slow down and explore different directions rather than settling on the first solution. The process comes together through discussion, refinement, and making sure the final design resonates with everyone involved.
Beyond design, where do you find inspiration?
I pay close attention to details in everyday life fonts, colors, textures, and materials. I’m constantly documenting what I see, especially when I’m traveling. A lot of it connects back to nature. There’s something about natural patterns that continues to influence how I think about design.
Is there a recent project that feels especially like you? Why does it resonate?
Right now, I’m helping to shape the landscape and master plan for a project that focuses on creating a health and performance campus for veterans transitioning into post-military careers. The project is centered around mental and physical wellness, and the ways those ideas translate into the built environment. What resonates with me is how we’re working within the landscape rather than over it, creating spaces that support clarity, movement, and connection.
Which ideas or themes have been on your mind lately?
I keep coming back to biophilic design, and how much of our environment is rooted in natural systems. Lately, I’ve also been thinking more about creating moments of calm within a fast-paced routine. Even something as simple as spending time by the water like taking a pause at the beach during a recent trip can offer a reset and shift how you approach everything afterward.
What are you experimenting with professionally or personally?
At work, I’ve been exploring architecture more deeply alongside my background in landscape architecture and planning. It’s been interesting to look at design at a different scale and level of precision. Outside of work, I’m always thinking about where to go next and how to make travel a consistent part of my life.
What’s energizing you most right now?
Seeing projects come together in real time is incredibly energizing, especially when things move quickly from concept to construction. I also thrive on collaboration. Being able to exchange ideas and problem-solve with others always pushes the work forward.
How have you been spending your time outside of work?
I’ve recently gotten back into yoga, which has helped create some balance. I’ve also been spending time going through old family photos and recipes, which has been a meaningful way to reconnect with my past. I’ve also been experimenting in the kitchen.
Is there a personal you’ve been diving deeper into lately?
Cooking, especially making ice cream from scratch. I’ve been really focused on getting the flavor just right, particularly when it comes to dark chocolate. It’s been a fun process, and I love being able to share something tangible with friends.