Growing up, Joel spent the majority of his time split between being outdoors in the Des Moines area and working on art projects. It wasn’t until a high school art class assignment did he realize the professions of landscape architecture and land planning existed, and that they combined his two great interests: the outdoor environment and exercising his creativity. His professional career has taken him from central Iowa to Kansas City and now, northern Colorado.
Today, Joel enjoys the collaboration and iterative nature of the design process to problem solve and create engaging outdoor environments. His boundless curiosity and plethora of interests allow Joel to look at unique challenges from different angles to evaluate the best possible solutions.
What gets you up in the morning?
The furry alarm clock that is Joel’s golden retriever, Daisy.
Professional affiliations, awards, community involvement:
- American Society of Landscape Architects, Associate Member
- Iowa ASLA Merit Award, 2019
Education:
- Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, Iowa State University
Hobbies:
- Hiking
- Cooking
- Reading
- Basketball
Alex started his college career as a history and education major to become a teacher and had never heard of Landscape Architecture. A friend had introduced him to the Landscape Architecture program at Colorado State University and he was drawn to its creative and vast professional outlet. Discovering that spaces can and are designed with intent to connect people, cultures, and communities to each other and the environment around them was a huge force in his pursuit of the profession.
What gets you up in the morning?
Alex enjoys the constant evolution and diversity of each project that comes in. The projects are as varied and unique as the people they are being designed for. This keeps it interesting and a constant learning experience for him. He enjoys the collaborative work atmosphere that allows everyone to be able to teach and be taught which is invaluable to the growing profession.
Education:
- Pursuit of Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from Colorado State University
Hobbies:
- Patiently waiting for the World Cup every 4 years
- Avid brewery Enthusiast
- Camping
Kendra’s passion for design and creativity was evident from an early age, which led her to pursue a degree in graphic arts. It wasn’t until after graduating that she discovered landscape architecture, but it immediately captured her interest. This field allowed her to channel her design skills into her daily work. For Kendra, great design is all about crafting positive user experiences, something she deeply enjoys both creating and experiencing firsthand.
What gets you up in the morning?
Everyday is an opportunity to grow towards a goal.
Education:
- Bachelors of Performing and Visual Arts in Graphic Design, University of Northern Colorado
Hobbies:
- Wakeboarding
- Boating
- Anything with her dog, Chesney
Born and raised in Thornton, Colorado, I found joy exploring the outdoors. I especially loved visiting my grandparents’ house and extensive garden, where I was able to cultivate and grow different plants. Later in life, I became interested in both art and engineering. As I pursued a path in the latter, I realized physics and math were a strength but not a passion, leading me to find landscape architecture. The combination of drawing, plants, and science has become the perfect fit and career for me to continue to pursue.
What gets you up in the morning?
Every day brings a new opportunity to grow, improve and dive deeper into my passions.
Professional affiliations, awards, community involvement:
- National ASLA Student Awards, Merit Award
Education:
- Bachelors of Science in Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University
Hobbies:
- Houseplant care
- Drawing
- Hiking
- Photography
I was born in Wausau, Wisconsin and raised in Parker Colorado. I grew up alongside two sisters and a brother. I spent every summer visiting my grandparents’ cabin in “the middle of no-where” Nebraska. With no cable or early 2000s computer games to keep me occupied, I found my love for exploring the Landscape while fishing, swimming, and picking berries. Like many, I had never heard of Landscape Architecture before I started college but found my original idea of a Botany degree faired far to chemistry heavy. Landscape Architecture was suggested to me by my mother, (who I think secretly just wanted a free yard re-design), however, being able to combine my passions for nature and design in my career has been a dream come true and I count my lucky stars every day for it.
What gets you up in the morning?
Usually, my chihuahua Binky pawing at my face to get back under the covers.
Education:
- Bachelors of Science in Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University
Hobbies:
- Fishing
- Playing video games
- Drawing
Robin was part of the original team that established Ripley Design in the 1990. She assisted Linda Ripley in the establishment of the new company that teamed with Architects Frank Vaught and Joe Frye. The team developed a strategic plan and a vision of what they wanted Ripley Design to be, a place for individuals to grow and thrive and fulfill their potential. Robin continues to be involved in the day to day and long term business planning for the company.
What gets you up in the morning?
Robin enjoys working with the creative team at Ripley Design, as well as the clients, and consultants. Ripley Design works as a team and allows each member to pursue their passions. It’s all about the people you work with every day.
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Arizona State University
- Post Graduate Studies – Accounting, Colorado State University
Shelby began her administrative journey in 1998 and credits her experience in several different industries as her best asset. She gained valuable human resources knowledge working in managed healthcare and insurance sales. Shelby also learned adaptability to specialized skills and industries during her time at jewelry manufacturers and environmental consultant companies. Shelby came to Ripley Design, Inc. after 9 years as a stay-at-home mother.
What gets you up in the morning?
Shelby’s main loves of life are her husband, daughter, and dog. She enjoys providing people with needed help and support in order to make their goals easier to attain.
Growing up in Denver, Colorado, Lila enjoyed spending time with her friends and loved ones experiencing the state’s natural beauty. She worked as an administration assistant on campus while attending college in Arizona, which allowed her to acquire useful skills and knowledge. Lila understands that each component of the business is equally significant. Having recently begun her professional career, she is eager to expand her skill set and advance her career at Ripley Design, Inc.
What gets you up in the morning?
Every day I learn something new, which improves my perspective. Also, my roommates cat meowing at my door.
Education:
Bachelor of Business Administration and Marketing, Grand Canyon University
Hobbies:
- Baking
- Traveling
- Volleyball