# Upland Design

> Park Planning and Landscape Architecture For The Modern World

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## Pages

- [Team](https://uplanddesign.com/team/): Meet Our Team Landscape Architect registered in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Find Out More About...
- [Contact Us](https://uplanddesign.com/contact-us/): Call us - email us - let's connect! CHICAGO OFFICE 1229 N North Branch St, Ste 220A Chicago, IL 60642...
- [Join Our Team](https://uplanddesign.com/join-our-team/): Interested In Working With Our Team Employment Opportunities Upland Design is currently seeking to add to our team of creative...
- [Michelle Kelly](https://uplanddesign.com/michelle-kelly/): Michelle Kelly Email mkelly@uplanddesign. com Projects Wolf's Crossing Community Park, Naperville Park District Blackberry Farm Master Plan & Phase I...
- [Heath A. Wright](https://uplanddesign.com/heath-wright/): Heath A. Wright, ASLA Email hwright@uplanddesign. com Projects Illinois Tollway Tree Initiative IDOT District 3 Misc. Landscape Improvements / Pollinator...
- [Maria Blood](https://uplanddesign.com/maria-sovan/): Maria Blood, PLA Email mblood@uplanddesign. com Projects Wolf's Crossing Community Park, Naperville Park District Lamb's Farm Master Plan: Libertyville, Illinois...
- [Liz Dafoe](https://uplanddesign.com/liz-dafoe/): Liz Dafoe, ASLA Email ldafoe@uplanddesign. com Projects Chicago Park District Artificial Turf Fields IDOT District 3 Misc Landscape Improvements /...
- [Tom Dvorak](https://uplanddesign.com/tom-dvorak/): Tom Dvorak Email tdvorak@uplanddesign. com Projects Playground Renovations, Bolingbrook Park District Prairie Lakes Aquatic Renovation Site Work, Des Plaines Park...
- [Vanessa Trovato](https://uplanddesign.com/vanessa-trovato/): Vanessa Trovato Email vtrovato@uplanddesign. com Projects Community Park Playground Renovation, Westchester Park District Palmer Park Renovations, City of Palos Park...
- [Daniel Wilson](https://uplanddesign.com/daniel-wilson/): Daniel Wilson Email dwilson@uplanddesign. com Projects Phase I & Phase II Landscape Improvements I-88 and I-355, Illinois Tollway Landscape Improvements;...
- [Privacy Policy](https://uplanddesign.com/privacy-policy/): Upland Design Privacy Policy Privacy Policy & Terms Of Use We believe strongly in protecting your privacy. That’s why we’re...
- [Services](https://uplanddesign.com/services/): Do You Have A Project We Can Help With? CONTACT UPLAND DESIGN TODAY Creating outside spaces. Upland Design creates exciting,...
- [Home](https://uplanddesign.com/): Do You Have A Project We Can Help With? CONTACT UPLAND DESIGN TODAY Go Outside Creating amazing outdoor spaces that...
- [About](https://uplanddesign.com/about/): Landscape Architecture & Planning Over 25 years of finding and implementing exceptional solutions Go Outside Creating great outdoors spaces that...
- [Project Partners](https://uplanddesign.com/project-partners/): Do You Have A Construction Project We Can Help With? Get a free quoteEach city and village has a unique...
- [Work](https://uplanddesign.com/work/): Go Outside
- [News](https://uplanddesign.com/news/): Building Inspiring Spaces We bring fresh ideas and possibilities with the technical expertise you need in landscape architecture and planning....

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## Posts

- [Maria Blood and Elizabeth Dafoe Promoted To Principal](https://uplanddesign.com/maria-blood-and-elizabeth-dafoe-promoted-to-principal/): PRESS RELEASE Upland Design Ltd founding principals Michelle A. Kelly and Heath A. Wright are honored to announce the promotion...
- [Rain Gardens](https://uplanddesign.com/rain-gardens/): Rain gardens have multiple benefits that can solve common drainage problems from a community playground to the edge of a...
- [Centennial Park: An Oasis in a Park Desert](https://uplanddesign.com/centennial-park-an-oasis-in-a-park-desert/): Centennial Park, located at 155 E. St. Charles Road, was named in honor of the park districts 100th year anniversary...
- [Public Engagement during COVID 2021](https://uplanddesign.com/public-engagement-during-covid-2021/): Public Engagement during COVID 2021 Energize and Innovate Your Input Process in the Time of COVID-19 and Beyond. Public engagement...
- [Goodbye 2020 and Welcome 2021](https://uplanddesign.com/goodbye-2020-and-welcome-2021/): Goodbye 2020 and Welcome 2021 There are so many things from 2020 that we all would like to leave behind....
- [Community Engagement Strategy](https://uplanddesign.com/community-engagement-strategy/): Upland Design’s Strategy To Get The Community Involved Upland Design has created engaging spaces for communities for the past 22...
- [Swallow Cliff Gets A Second Set of Stairs](https://uplanddesign.com/swallow-cliff-gets-a-second-set-of-stairs/): Swallow Cliff is a 100ft-high bluff that formed around 12,000 years ago from glacial action. Today it is best known...
- [Orland Park Nature Center Celebrates Soft Opening](https://uplanddesign.com/orland-park-nature-center-celebrates-soft-opening/): On June 3rd, the Orland Park Nature Center celebrated its soft opening. Mayor Keith Pekau led the opening with the...
- [Upland Design Assists the Illinois Tollway Tree Project](https://uplanddesign.com/upland-design-assists-the-illinois-tollway-tree-project/): Arbor Day 2018 marked the announcement of major changes to Illinois highways. The Illinois Tollway released a master plan to...
- [Landscape Structures Visit](https://uplanddesign.com/landscape-structures-visit/): Last week, Upland team members Michelle, Maria and Liz visited playground equipment manufacturer Landscape Structures headquarters and factory in Delano,...
- [Palatine Has Two New Playgrounds](https://uplanddesign.com/palatine-has-two-new-playgrounds/): Need another reason to Go Outside? Visit two new playgrounds within the Palatine Park District system. Lindberg Park and Dutch...
- [Mansfield Park New Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/mansfield-park-new-playground/): Want to hang out in the trees? Visit Mansfield Park new playground! Located on Church Street, the Morton Grove Park...
- [Splash Pads Are Opening](https://uplanddesign.com/splash-pads-are-opening/): The sun is starting to come out and it is finally warming up in the Midwest. This flow through splash...
- [Wheeling Town Center](https://uplanddesign.com/wheeling-town-center/): Wheeling Town Center is a transit- oriented mixed-use development featuring 100,000 square feet of retail and 301 residential apartments units....
- [PARK(ing) Day in Downtown Plainfield](https://uplanddesign.com/parking-day-in-downtown-plainfield/): On September 21, Upland Design participated in PARK(ing) Day for the second time. Starting in 2005, PARK(ing) Day is an...
- [Community Build a Success!](https://uplanddesign.com/community-build-a-success/): Over the weekend, Liz Dafoe from Upland Design participated in a community build in her hometown of Frankenmuth, MI. Over...
- [West Chatham Park – Turf Field Almost Finished](https://uplanddesign.com/west-chatham-park-turf-field-almost-finished/): New Artificial Turf West Chatham Park on Chicago's Southside is undergoing a transformation. The previous natural turf football practice field...
- [West Chatham Park – New Artificial Turf](https://uplanddesign.com/west-chatham-park-news/): New Artificial Turf West Chatham Park is getting new multi-purpose artificial turf fields with the planning help of Upland Design....
- [Thank You M.I.P.E .!](https://uplanddesign.com/thank-you-m-i-p-e/): On January 12, 2017, the Midwest Institute of Park Executives (M. I. P. E. ) announced that firm principals Michelle...
- [Engstrom Park Grand Opening](https://uplanddesign.com/engstrom-park-grand-opening/): Engstrom Park Grand Opening This past weekend, the Batavia Park District celebrated the re-dedication of its 14 acre Engstrom Park....
- [Houston Street Planters](https://uplanddesign.com/houston-street-planters/): Houston Street Planters This week the City of Batavia, Batavia Park District, Batavia MainStreet, and other local volunteers came together...
- [Building Dynamic Playgrounds](https://uplanddesign.com/building-dynamic-playgrounds/): Building Dynamic Playgrounds Check out Michelle’s great article about Dynamic Play featured in March’s issue of Parks and Recreation Magazine!...

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## Portfolio

- [Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/stephanies-garden-and-nature-education-spaces/): Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces Your Content Goes Here Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces Upland Design assisted the...
- [Naperville Streetscape Standards](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/naperville-streetscape-standards/): Naperville Streetscape Standards Your Content Goes Here Naperville Streetscape Standards Upland Design worked closely with City staff and team engineers...
- [West Chatham](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/west-chatham/): West Chatham Your Content Goes Here West Chatham Park - Artificial Turf Athletic Fields Located in Chicago adjacent to several...
- [Aux Sable Springs Park](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/aux-sable-springs-park/): Aux Sable Springs Park Your Content Goes Here Aux Sable Springs Park In 2018, Upland Design, Engineering Resources Associates, and...
- [St. Francis- Sustainable Parking Lot & Entry Signage](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/st-francis-sustainable-parking-lot-entry-signage/): St. Francis Sustainable Parking Lot & Entry Signage Your Content Goes Here Sustainable Parking Lot and Entry Signage The University...
- [Hiawatha Park](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/hiawatha-park/): Hiawatha Park Your Content Goes Here Hiawatha Park Playground & Splash Pad Working with community members, the alderman and the...
- [Shabbona Park](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/shabbona-park/): Shabbona Park Your Content Goes Here Shabbona Park Shabbona Park is a major activity center for the Dunning community in...
- [West Main Park Master Plan](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/west-main-park-master-plan/): West Main Park Master Plan Your Content Goes Here West Main Park Master Plan Upland Design led a master plan...
- [Park & Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Batavia Park District](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/park-recreation-comprehensive-master-plan-batavia-park-district/): Park & Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Batavia Park District Your Content Goes Here Park and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Upland...
- [Clarendon Hills](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/clarendon-hills/): Clarendon Hills Your Content Goes Here Clarendon Hills Multi-Use Building Site Planning Located in downtown Clarendon Hills, a formerly vacant...
- [Jackie Robinson Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/jackie-robinson-playground/): Jackie Robinson Playground Your Content Goes Here Jackie Robinson Playground Upland Design designed an exciting play experience at Jackie Robinson...
- [Iron Oaks](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/iron-oaks/): Iron Oaks Your Content Goes Here Iron Oaks Irons Oaks is a joint project of the Homewood–Flossmoor and Olympia Fields...
- [Carpenter Park and Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/carpenter-park-and-playground/): Carpenter Park and Playground Your Content Goes Here Carpenter Park and Playground Working closely with the Village of Carpentersville, Upland...
- [Brentwood Park Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/brentwood-park-playground/): Brentwood Park Playground Your Content Goes Here Brentwood Park Playground With its natural area backdrop of forest preserve and creek...
- [Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria Landscape](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/lou-malnatis-pizzeria-landscape/): Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria Landscape Your Content Goes Here Project Gallery http://uplanddesign. com/wp-content/uploads/Lou-Malnatis-Landscape-Chicago. jpghttp://uplanddesign. com/wp-content/uploads/Lou-Malnatis-Chicago. jpghttp://uplanddesign. com/wp-content/uploads/Lou-Malnaits-PIzzeria-Streetscape. jpghttp://uplanddesign. com/wp-content/uploads/Lou-Malnatis-Landscape-Plan. jpg
- [Outback Steakhouse Landscape](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/outback-steakhouse-landscape/): Outback Steakhouse Landscape Your Content Goes Here Outback Steakhouse Landscape As part of the development of a new Outback Steak...
- [Landscape Planning at Van Dyke Place](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/landscape-planning-at-van-dyke-place/): Landscape Planning at Van Dyke Place Your Content Goes Here Landscape Planning at Van Dyke Place Located across from Village...
- [Hydrosystems Laboratory Expansion and Renovation](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/hydrosystems-laboratory-expansion-and-renovation/): Hydrosystems Laboratory Expansion and Renovation Your Content Goes Here Hydrosystems Laboratory Expansion and Renovation The University of Illinois is undertaking...
- [Richland Elementary Outdoor Classroom](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/richland-elementary-outdoor-classroom/): Richland Elementary Outdoor Classroom Your Content Goes Here Richland Elementary Outdoor Classroom Richland School is creating a nature based dynamic,...
- [Lambs Farm Barnyard Master Plan](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/lambs-farm-barnyard-master-plan/): Lambs Farm Barnyard Master Plan Your Content Goes Here Lambs Farm Barnyard Master Plan Lambs Farm is a non-profit organization...
- [Kiwanis Park Master Plan](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/kiwanis-park-master-plan/): Kiwanis Park Master Plan Your Content Goes Here Kiwanis Park Master Plan Kiwanis Park has served the DeKalb community as...
- [Lions Park](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/lions-park/): Lions Park Your Content Goes Here Lions Park A major renovation to the existing three ball fields along with the...
- [Chicago Fire Soccer Complex](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/chicago-fire-soccer-complex/): Chicago Fire Soccer Complex Your Content Goes Here Chicago Fire Soccer Complex Chicago Fire redeveloped a vacant manufacturing building as...
- [Wolf’s Crossing Community Park](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/wolfs-crossing-community-park/): Wolf’s Crossing Community Park Your Content Goes Here Wolf’s Crossing Community Park Upland Design along with Engineering Resource Associates and...
- [Moline Multi-Modal Station](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/moline-multi-modal-station/): Moline Multi-Modal Station Your Content Goes Here Moline Multi-Modal Station Upland is working with Legat Architects to assist the Moline...
- [Memorial Park Renovation](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/memorial-park-renovation/): Memorial Park Renovation Your Content Goes Here Memorial Park Renovation As the prime consultant for all phases of work as...
- [Blackberry Farm](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/blackberry-farm/): Blackberry Farm Your Content Goes Here Blackberry Farm Blackberry Farm is a 40 year old living museum and historically themed...
- [Baker Woods](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/baker-woods/): Baker Woods Your Content Goes Here Baker Woods As part of the 400-acre Baker Woods Forest Preserve, the Kendall County...
- [Hoover Forest Preserve and Fox River Trail](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/hoover-forest-preserve-and-fox-river-trail/): Hoover Forest Preserve & Fox River Trail Your Content Goes Here Hoover Forest Preserve and Fox River Trail Hoover Forest...
- [Sunrise Beach & Park Waterfront Master Plan](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/sunrise-park/): Sunrise Beach & Park Waterfront Master Plan Your Content Goes Here Sunrise Beach & Park Waterfront Master Plan Sunrise Park,...
- [Gateway Signs and Landscape Enhancement Catalog](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/gateway-signs-and-landscape-enhancement-catalog/): Gateway Signs & Landscape Enhancement Catalog Your Content Goes Here Gateway Signs and Landscape Enhancement Catalog To assist the Village...
- [Sandwich Park District](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/sandwich-park-district/): Sandwich Park District Your Content Goes Here Recreation Level of Service Review and Park Maps Established in 1966, the Sandwich...
- [West Chicago Stairs](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/west-chicago-stairs/): West Chicago Stairs Your Content Goes Here West Chicago Stairs Downtown West Chicago is part of the Turner Junction Historic...
- [Standard Oil Gasoline Station](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/standard-oil-gasoline-station/): Standard Oil Gasoline Station Your Content Goes Here Standard Oil Gasoline Station This National Historic Register Landmark, the former Standard...
- [NIU Outdoor Recreation Sports Complex](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/niu-outdoor-recreation-sports-complex/): NIU Outdoor Recreation Sports Complex Your Content Goes Here Outdoor Recreation Sports Complex Upland Design led the master planning process...
- [Sandholm Woods](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/sandholm-woods/): Sandholm Woods Your Content Goes Here Sandholm Woods Sandholm Woods is a 2-acre neighborhood park created to add much needed...
- [Ford Heights Baseball](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/ford-heights-baseball/): Ford Heights Baseball Your Content Goes Here Ford Heights Baseball Upland Design assisted the Ford Heights Park District with their...
- [Engstrom Park Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/engstrom-park-playground/): Engstrom Park Playground Your Content Goes Here Engstrom Park Playground Upland Design led the master planning and site redevelopment of...
- [Adelmann Park Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/adelmann-park-playground/): Adelmann Park Playground Your Content Goes Here Adelmann Park Playground Upland Design led the master planning and site development of...
- [Wheeling Town Center](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/wheeling-town-center/): Wheeling Town Center Your Content Goes Here Wheeling Town Center As lead landscape architect on the multi-disciplinary team, Upland Design...
- [Leland Elementary Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/leland-elementary-playground/): Leland Elementary Playground Your Content Goes Here Leland Elementary School Playground As part of the Spaces to Grow program, Leland...
- [Morril Elementary Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/morril-elementary-playground/): Morril Elementary Playground Your Content Goes Here Morril Elementary School Playground Upland Design worked as part of a team for...
- [Wheeler Park Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/wheeler-park-playground/): Wheeler Park Playground Your Content Goes Here Wheeler Park Playground Wheeler Park is a large community park within the Geneva...
- [Wynwood Park Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/wynwood-park-playground/): Wynwood Park Playground Your Content Goes Here Wynwood Park Playground Working closely with Winfield staff, Upland Design prepared a master...
- [Fairview Park Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/fairview-park-playground/): Fairview Park Playground Your Content Goes Here Fairview Park Playground Fairview Park is a neighborhood park that serves a large...
- [Columbus Manor Park](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/columbus-manor-park/): Columbus Manor Park Your Content Goes Here Columbus Manor Park Columbus Manor was completely renovated over a two year period...
- [Harbert Road](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/harbert-road/): Harbert Road Your Content Goes Here Village of Peotone Creating a Greenbelt to Gather, Connect, and BelongChikaming Township envisioned a...
- [Union Pier](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/union-pier/): Union Pier Your Content Goes Here Village of Peotone Chikaming Township, New Buffalo Township, and Berrien County partnered to reimagine...
- [Village of Peotone](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/village-of-peotone/): Village of Peotone Your Content Goes Here Village of Peotone How One Small Village Landed $2. 5 Million to Reimagine...
- [Montrose Multi-Use Artificial Turf Field](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/montrose-multi-use-artificial-turf-field/): Montrose Multi-Use Artificial Turf Field Your Content Goes Here Montrose Multi-Use Artificial Turf Field Set along Lake Michigan, Montrose Field...
- [Orland Park Nature Center](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/orland-park-nature-center/): Orland Park Nature Center Your Content Goes Here Orland Park Nature Center Upland Design brought the Village of Orland Park’s...
- [Signage and Landscape Enhancements at Corporate West Drive](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/signage-and-landscape-enhancements-at-corporate-west-drive/): Signage and Landscape Enhancements at Corporate West Drive Your Content Goes Here Signage and Landscape Enhancements at Corporate West Drive...
- [Moline Transportation Plan Update](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/moline-transportation-plan-update/): Moline Transportation Plan Update Your Content Goes Here Moline Transportation Plan Update Upland Design worked as part of the SBC...
- [Garnsey Park Playground](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/garnsey-park-playground/): Garnsey Park Playground Your Content Goes Here Garnsey Park Playground Garnsey Park is both a neighborhood park and a community...
- [Illinois Department of Transportation, Various Projects](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/illinois-department-of-transportation-various-projects/): Various IDOT Projects Your Content Goes Here Illinois Department of Transportation, Various Projects As the landscape architectural sub-consultant to Hey...
- [Peck Farm North](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/peck-farm-north/): Peck Farm North Your Content Goes Here Peck Farm North Geneva Park District planned the expansion of Peck Farm to...
- [Entry Plaza and Landscape Enhancements](https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/entry-plaza-and-landscape-enhancements/): River Forest Public Library Entry Plaza & Landscape Enhancements Your Content Goes Here Entry Plaza and Landscape Enhancements River Forest...

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## FAQs


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## Avada Slides

- [Harbert Road](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/entry-plaza-and-landscape-enhancements-2-2/)
- [Union Pier](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/entry-plaza-and-landscape-enhancements-2-2-2/)
- [Jefferson Park](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Sandholm](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Tom Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/maria-slide-3/)
- [Liz Slider](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/liz-slider/)
- [Maria Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/maria-slide/)
- [Team](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/team/)
- [Peck Farm North](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/west-chatham-2-3-2/)
- [Aux Sable Springs Park](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/west-chatham-2/)
- [Wolf’s Crossing Community Park](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/west-chatham-2-3/)
- [Home1.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home2.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home3.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home5.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home6.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home7.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home8.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home9.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home11.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Home12.2](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2/)
- [Columbus Manor Park](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/west-chatham-2-2/)
- [Home10.21](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-3-2/)
- [Vanessa Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/maria-slide-3-2/)
- [Daniel Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/maria-slide-2/)
- [Mansfield](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/1804-2/)
- [Join Our Team](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/team-2/)
- [Stephanie’s Garden](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/stephanies-garden/)
- [Home10.22](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/home1-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2-3/)
- [West Chatham](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/west-chatham/)
- [West Main Park Master Plan](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/2493/)
- [Park and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/park-and-recreation-comprehensive-master-plan/)
- [Carpentersville](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/carpentersville/)
- [Clarendon Hills](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/clarendon-hills/)
- [Montrose Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/montrose-slide/)
- [Illinois Department of Transportation](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/illinois-department-of-transportation/)
- [Sustainable Parking Lot and Entry Signage](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/sustainable-parking-lot-and-entry-signage/)
- [Morril](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/morril/)
- [Hiawatha](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/hiawatha/)
- [Fairview](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/fairview/)
- [Wynwood](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/wynwood/)
- [Leland](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/leland/)
- [Brentwood](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/brentwood/)
- [Bakerwoods](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/bakerwoods/)
- [Sandholm Woods](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/sandholm-woods/)
- [Lou Pizza Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/lou-pizza-slide/)
- [Outback Steakhouse Slider](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/outback-steakhouse-slider/)
- [Van Dyke Place Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/van-dyke-place-slide/)
- [Blackberry Farms Top Slider](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/van-dyke-place-slide-2/)
- [Hydro Slider](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/hydro-slider/)
- [Richland Slider](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/richland-slider/)
- [Lambs Farm](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/lambs-farm/)
- [Orland Park Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/orland-park-slide/)
- [Kiwanis Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/kiwanis-slide/)
- [Lions Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/lions-slide/)
- [Chicago Fire Slider](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/chicago-fire-slider/)
- [Corporate West Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/corporate-west-slide/)
- [Michelle Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/michelle-slide/)
- [Heath Slider](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/heath-slider/)
- [Ford Heights](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/1820/)
- [Hoover Preserve](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/hoover-preserve/)
- [Sunrise Beach Slide](https://uplanddesign.com/slide/sunrise-beach-slide/)
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# Detailed Content


## Pages

- Published: 2025-10-27
- Modified: 2025-10-27
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/team/

Meet Our Team Michelle Kelly, PLAFounding PrincipalLandscape Architect registered in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Find Out More About MichelleHeath A. Wright, PLAFounding PrincipalLandscape Architect registered in Illinois and Michigan Find Out More About HeathMaria Blood, PLAPrincipalLandscape Architect registered in Illinois, Ohio, and Wisconsin Find Out More About MariaLiz Dafoe, PLAPrincipalLandscape Architect registered in Illinois, Oregon, and Minnesota Find Out More About LizTom DvorakProject ManagerLandscape Designer Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Find Out More About TomClaire ScottLandscape Designer IILandscape Architect registered in Illinois IDOT S-14 Documentation of Contract Quantities – Inspector Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Elias MartinProject Manager Project Manager Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Natalie Freeman, PLALandscape Designer IILandscape Architect registered in Illinois Mia OchoaLandscape Designer ILandscape Designer I Cesar GomezLandscape Designer ILandscape Designer I Grace BurkardLandscape Designer ILandscape Designer I Jessica AguadaLandscape Designer IILandscape Designer II Jessie FlatleyLandscape Designer ILandscape Designer I Joe JensenConstruction AdministratorConstruction Administrator Mary HenneberryDocument TechnicianDocument Technician Sierra ChmelaLandscape Designer I Landscape Designer I Srijana ThapaLandscape Designer IILandscape Designer II

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- Published: 2025-10-17
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/contact-us/

Call us - email us - let's connect! CHICAGO OFFICE 1229 N North Branch St, Ste 220A Chicago, IL 60642 1. 312. 350. 4088info@uplanddesign. com Mon – Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm PLAINFIELD OFFICE 24042 W. Lockport St, Suite 200 Plainfield, IL 60544 1. 815. 254. 0091 info@uplanddesign. com Mon – Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm Go Outside Let us know how we can assist you today /* */ Step 1 of 2 50% Name* First Last Phone*Email* Please leave a message:* Name VerificationTo minimize spam submission to Upland Design, please provide your name a second time. Name First Last Verify You Are Human /* { mutations. forEach( ( mutation ) => { if ( mutation. type === 'attributes' && visibilityTestDiv. offsetParent ! == null ) { debouncedTriggerPostRender; observer. disconnect; } }); }); observer. observe( document. body, { attributes: true, childList: false, subtree: true, attributeFilter: , }); } else { triggerPostRender; } } );} ); /* ]]> */ var map_fusion_map_691489fb372c1; var markers = ; var counter = 0; var fusionMapNonce = '66640dff55'; function fusion_run_map_fusion_map_691489fb372c1 { jQuery ('#fusion_map_691489fb372c1' ). fusion_maps( { addresses: , animations: true, infobox_background_color: '', infobox_styling: 'default', infobox_text_color: '', map_style: 'custom', map_type: 'terrain', marker_icon: '/wp-content/uploads/Upland-Design-Map-Pin2. png', overlay_color: '', overlay_color_hsl: {"hue":0,"sat":0,"lum":100}, show_address: false, scale_control: false, scrollwheel: false, zoom: 9, zoom_control: false, } ); } google. maps. event. addDomListener(window, 'load', fusion_run_map_fusion_map_691489fb372c1);

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- Published: 2025-05-20
- Modified: 2025-11-11
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/join-our-team/

Interested In Working With Our Team Employment OpportunitiesUpland Design is currently seeking to add to our team of creative personnel that understands what it means to grow in their roles while making an impact in the landscape architecture world. We practice our craft daily and utilize those skills to focus on strategic planning for urban change and project design built for all to enjoy. Upland Design Ltd is a women owned business and is committed to a diverse workforce. As an equal opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. Current OpeningsMid Level Landscape Architect Senior Landscape Architect

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- Published: 2023-01-11
- Modified: 2023-01-12
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/michelle-kelly/

Michelle Kelly FOUNDING PRINCIPAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Email mkelly@uplanddesign. com Projects Wolf's Crossing Community Park, Naperville Park District Blackberry Farm Master Plan & Phase I Construction: Fox Valley Park District Peck Farm Interpretive Center Outdoor Theater: Geneva Park District Lake Katherine Botanic Garden and Nature Center Master Site Plan: Palos Heights, Illinois Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center Master Plan & Phase I Construction: Olympia Fields, Illinois Lamb's Farm Master Plan: Libertyville, Illinois Sunrise Park and Beach Waterfront Master Plan: Lake Bluff Park District Otter Cove Island Master Plan & Phase I Construction: St. Charles Park District Miller Meadows & Thatcher Woods Master Plan and Phase I Construction: Forest Preserves of Cook County Spring Lake Park Development: Fox Valley Park District Sandholm Woods Park and Garden: Geneva Park District Lawler Park & Splash Pad Renovation: Chicago Park District Morrill and Leland School Sustainable School Sites: Chicago Public Schools Historic Peck Farm Amphitheater: Geneva Park District River Forest Public Library Garden, River Forest, Illinois Experience Michelle has been creating parks and designing public open space for over 20-years. From public meetings through design development and construction observation, she succeeds in creating great outdoor opportunities for each community. Her professional work includes park master planning, formal garden design, water access natural area planning along with green technology, sports fields and courts, children’s play areas, forest preserve development, parking lot design, and municipal building landscapes. Credentials Certified Playground Safety Inspector since 1995 Registered in Illinois, Michigan, Indiana and Iowa LEED Green Associate Education Bachelor of...

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- Published: 2023-01-11
- Modified: 2023-01-12
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/heath-wright/

Heath A. Wright, ASLA FOUNDING PRINCIPAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Email hwright@uplanddesign. com Projects Illinois Tollway Tree Initiative IDOT District 3 Misc. Landscape Improvements / Pollinator Sites Hoover Forest Preserve Trails, Decks and Bridges: Yorkville, Illinois Riverview Farmstead Master Plan and Development: Will County Forest Preserve District, Naperville Maintenance Facility Landscape Plan: Bolingbrook Park District Baker Woods and Ellis Equestrian Center Master Plan, OSLAD & Construction: Kendall County Forest Preserve District Four Rivers Environmental Center: Forest Preserve District of Will County Jay Woods Master Plan & Construction: Kendall County Forest Preserve District Tree Survey, Naperville Road & East Deihl Road: Naperville, Illinois Braeburn Park Renovation: Batavia Park District Memorial Park - Phase I and Phase II Improvements: Batavia Park District District One – Landscape Projects: Illinois Department of Transportation – Cook and Will County, Illinois Experience Heath has been instrumental in the implementation of a wide range of landscape architectural and planning projects including sports field complexes, multi-use and recreational trail systems, play grounds, forest preserves, and park renovations. At Upland Design, Heath has led the creation of construction documents and oversight of construction administration on many complex projects. Prior to working at Upland Design, Heath was the Bolingbrook Park District’s project manager. Credentials Registered Landscape Architect IDOT S-14 Documentation of Contract Quantities - Inspector ISA Certified Arborist Professional Activities American Society of Landscape Architects International Society of Arboriculture Midwest Institute of Park Executive (MIPE) Plainfield Park District Commissioner Illinois Parks and Recreation Association, Parks Section Member Village Preservation Association, Plainfield, Illinois...

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- Published: 2023-01-11
- Modified: 2023-01-12
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/maria-sovan/

Maria Blood, PLA PRINCIPAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Email mblood@uplanddesign. com Projects Wolf's Crossing Community Park, Naperville Park District Lamb's Farm Master Plan: Libertyville, Illinois Memorial Park - Phase II: BataviaPark District River Forest Public Library: River Forest, Illinois Thatcher Woods Forest Preserve Master Plan and Renovation: Forest Preserves of Cook County Miller Meadow Forest Preserve Master Plan and Renovation: Forest Preserves of Cook County Swallow Cliff Stair Renovation: Forest Preserves of Cook County Rolling Knolls Phase I Development: Forest Preserves of Cook County Freedom Path Veteran's Housing: Hines, Illinois Lou Malnati's Pizzeria Landscape Plan: Chicago, Illinois Northern Illinois University Intramural Sports Complex: Dekalb, Illinois Memorial Park Sports Field Phase II Development: Batavia Park District Experience Maria has been a professional in public park and landscape planning since 2008. Her past and current work is focused towards creating public spaces. Her project experience also includes comprehensive district-wide master planning as well as site design through construction for playgrounds and sports fields. Maria has been with Upland Design since September 2011. Her career has been focused to serving public parks and recreation clients and enjoys being involved in the creation of outdoor spaces. Credentials NRPA Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Registered Landscape Architect LEED AP BD+C Education Bachelor of Landscape Architecture University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2008 Professional Activities American Society of Landscape Architects South Suburban Park Recreation Professional Association Member Slovenian Cultural Center Volunteer Other Projects Renaissance Park, Rotary Park & Hawthorne Playground Renovation: Lockport Park District Otter Cove Island Master Plan...

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- Published: 2023-01-11
- Modified: 2023-01-12
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/liz-dafoe/

Liz Dafoe, ASLA PRINCIPAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Email ldafoe@uplanddesign. com Projects Chicago Park District Artificial Turf Fields IDOT District 3 Misc Landscape Improvements / Pollinator Sites Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center Master Plan & Phase I Construction: Olympia Fields, Illinois Kishwaukee Health and Wellness Center Site Master Plan: Dekalb, Illinois Carpenter Park Master Plan, OSLAD and Phase I Construction: Carpentersville, Illinois Shabbona Park Playground Renovation & Splash Pad: Chicago Park District Wheeler & Weaver Park Playground Renovation: Geneva Park District Quad City Multi-Modal Station Concept Plan: Moline, Illinois Senka Park Renovation & Artificial Turf Field: Chicago Park District Homer Township Public Library Landscape: Homer Glen, Illinois Baker Woods and Ellis Equestrian Center Site Improvements: Kendall County Forest Preserve District Health Science Center Landscape at Black Hawk College: Moline, Illinois Experience Liz’s work has centered on parks and recreation design since 2006. Her experience includes park and playground design, sports fields, grants, accessibility audits, and transition plans. She has completed park development from concepts through construction drawings for a variety of sites and communities. Throughout her career, Liz has brought her love of play to work. Liz has been with Upland Design since 2011. Registered Landscape Architect Illinois Credentials NRPA Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Registered Landscape Architect Education Bachelor of Landscape Architecture Michigan State University, 2006 Professional Activities American Society of Landscape Architects Children's Outdoor Play Environments Professional Network Officer IDOT S-14 Documentation of Contract Quantities – Inspector MSU Landscape Architecture Alumni and Advisory Board Other Projects Morrill and Leland Elementary...

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- Published: 2023-01-11
- Modified: 2023-01-12
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/tom-dvorak/

Tom Dvorak PROJECT MANAGER Email tdvorak@uplanddesign. com Projects Playground Renovations, Bolingbrook Park District Prairie Lakes Aquatic Renovation Site Work, Des Plaines Park District Wolf's Crossing Community Park, Naperville Park District Milwaukee Alley Plaza, Chicago Department of Transportation Knights Park ADA Improvements, Sandwich Park District Aux Sable Springs Park, Village of Minooka Pickerill Pigott Development, Kendall County Forest Preserve District Experience Tom joined Upland Design, Ltd. upon graduation and has found his niche in park and recreation design. His project experience includes park master planning through construction, playground design, sports fields and courts, and audits. He enjoys engaging with each community during the planning process and his focus is on designing exceptional recreation opportunities that cater to specific community needs. Education University of Wisconsin-Madison Bachelor of Science in Landscape ArchitectureWith hundreds of successful projects, we know how to create, outside.

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- Published: 2019-11-16
- Modified: 2019-11-16
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/vanessa-trovato/

Vanessa Trovato LANDSCAPE DESIGNER Email vtrovato@uplanddesign. com Projects Community Park Playground Renovation, Westchester Park District Palmer Park Renovations, City of Palos Park Kasey Meadows Park OSLAD Renovation, Hickory Hills Park District Thornton Park Master Plan, City of Ottawa Kosciuszko Park Renovation, Chicago Park District Homewood Estates Master Plan and OSLAD Grant, Homewood Flossmoor Park District Experience Vanessa brings experience from neighborhood and campus design, to park and playgrounds, and public plazas. She enjoys collaboration and furthering design through the public engagement process. Vanessa enjoys working with the community to bring ideas to life. Credentials American Society of Landscape Architects, Member Education Pennsylvania State University Bachelor of Landscape ArchitectureWith hundreds of successful projects, we know how to create, outside.

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- Published: 2019-11-15
- Modified: 2022-05-30
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/daniel-wilson/

Daniel Wilson LANDSCAPE DESIGNER Email dwilson@uplanddesign. com Projects Phase I & Phase II Landscape Improvements I-88 and I-355, Illinois Tollway Landscape Improvements; Phase III I-90 tree plantings, Illinois Tollway Buffalo Creek Reservoir Reconstruction; Phase III, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Trails End Park Improvements, Bartlett Park District McKinley Park Artificial Turf, Chicago Park District Lions Park Renovation, Cary, Illinois Experience Daniel has worked on projects from concept design through construction documents. He has a knowledge of plant material and soils which he uses as an inspector for projects on the Illinois Tollway. Daniel enjoys creating spaces that enhance the user's experience. Credentials IDOT Documentation of Contract quantities Certificate (S-14) IDOT Module I: Fundamentals of Storm Water Pollution and Erosion and Sediment Control Education Bachelor of Landscape Architecture West Virginia University Associates of Arts in Horticulture Potomac State College of WVUWith hundreds of successful projects, we know how to create, outside.

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- Published: 2018-04-20
- Modified: 2022-07-11
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/privacy-policy/

Upland Design Privacy PolicyPrivacy Policy & Terms Of Use We believe strongly in protecting your privacy. That’s why we’re committed to the Direct Marketing Association’s “Privacy Promise to American Consumers. ” We have agreed to: (1) provide customers with the notice of their ability to opt out of information rental, sale, or exchange with other marketers; (2) honor customers’ requests not to share their information with other marketers; and (3) honor customers’ requests not to receive mail, telephone, or other solicitations from Upland Design. Collecting Information About You In general, you can visit many of our web pages without telling us who you are or revealing any personal information about yourself. We may track the Internet domain address from which people visit us and analyze this data for trends and statistics, but individual users will remain anonymous, unless you voluntarily tell us who you are. Please be assured of the caution we use regarding the personal information you provide during the checkout process. This information is used to process your order and email you a confirmation of the order plus the shipping information. In addition, other internal uses for personal information received through our website may arise, which may include analyzing Web viewing trends and informing you of our new products to help enhance your shopping experience with Upland Design. Cookies The Upland Design website uses a common form of data called “cookies”, which are small amounts of information stored on your hard drive which were sent to your Internet...

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- Published: 2017-12-01
- Modified: 2017-12-28
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/services/

Do You Have A Project We Can Help With? CONTACT UPLAND DESIGN TODAYServices Overview Creating outside spaces. Upland Design creates exciting, purposeful, and sustainable outdoor spaces and places. We listen to your needs to create the unique places where communities find value, where people want to go outside. Each site is unique; each assignment is different. If you are creating public or private outdoor spaces, we’ll be with you, as an overall project coordinator, as a principal consultant, or by providing expertise and leadership within a multidiscipline design team. With hundreds of successful projects, we know how to create, outside. Playgrounds & Park Planning Dynamic Playground Design through Construction Observation Park Master Planning through Construction Observation Nature Based Design CPSI Playground Safety Audit Comprehensive Park System Master Plans Bicycle and Multi-use Trail Design Garden Design Waterfront Design and Water Access Natural Area and Forest Preserve Access Campground Design Wayfinding and Interpretive Signage Design Grant Writing and Assistance Local, State and Federal Permitting for Outdoor Spaces Sports Complex Design – Master Planning through Construction Sports Field Design: Baseball, Softball, Football, Lacrosse, Rugby, Soccer, Flag Football Sport Court Design: Basketball, roller hockey, bocce ball, horse shoe Artificial and Natural Turf Fields Education Campus Master Planning Design through Construction Landscape Planning and Design Fitness Trails Healing Gardens Children's Spaces and Playgrounds Kitchen and Teaching Gardens Meeting and Event Space Design Streetscape & Transportation Streetscape Design Transit/Train Station Design Multi-Modal Network Design Roadside Landscape Evaluation and Enhancements Historic Site Planning and Landscapes Tree Inventories...

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- Published: 2015-12-04
- Modified: 2019-04-15
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/

Do You Have A Project We Can Help With? CONTACT UPLAND DESIGN TODAYGo Outside Creating amazing outdoor spaces that engage communities, improve the quality of life and invite people to go outside over and over is our focus. Loading... Naperville Streetscape Standards Streetscape & Transportation View Similar Projects View This Project Ford Heights Baseball Sports & Recreation View Similar Projects View This Project Garnsey Park and Playground Playgrounds View Similar Projects View This Project Gateway Signs and Landscape Enhancement Planning View Similar Projects View This Project Morril Elementary Park Renovations Education View Similar Projects View This Project Hoover Forest Preserve Parks View Similar Projects View This Project Explore Recent Work Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces2025-11-05T08:54:37-06:00 Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces Gallery Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces Academic, Playgrounds Naperville Streetscape Standards2025-10-21T07:35:43-05:00 Naperville Streetscape Standards Gallery Naperville Streetscape Standards Civic, Comprehensive Master Planning, Public Engagement, Streetscapes & Transporation Aux Sable Springs Park2025-11-05T08:29:45-06:00 Aux Sable Springs Park Gallery Aux Sable Springs Park Grants, Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement, Retail & Commercial, Sports VIEW ALL PROJECTSWe create spaces that connect people outdoors. Every client has a unique site with distinct goals. We listen and work closely with you for a collaborative process from beginning concept plans to project completion. Great communication, collaboration, and teamwork are built into each task. Places to play Recreational opportunities to serve every age and inspire active communities Places to learn Engaging settings that encourage exploration and learning with great designPlaces to work Landscape designs for the...

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- Published: 2015-12-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/about/

Landscape Architecture & PlanningOver 25 years of finding and implementing exceptional solutionsGo Outside MISSION Creating great outdoors spaces that engage communities is our core mission. We create these outside spaces with passion, intelligence, and sensitivity. We start by listening to you and incorporating the needs of your community. Whether creating, renovating or transforming, we develop spaces that inspire communities to go outside. Our knowledge of the Midwest region, problem solving skills, and attention to detail produces effective solutions. HISTORY Upland Design Ltd was established in 1998 by Michelle A. Kelly and has grown through the years by providing high quality service and design to our clients. Our first client was the Kendall County Forest Preserve District designing the Richard Young Forest Preserve in Yorkville, Illinois. Since then, we have been lucky to assist many public and private clients to find just right solutions. In 2008 we moved our offices to an historic building in downtown Plainfield which allowed us to grow our staff of landscape architects and horticulturists. In 2014 we opened a Chicago office to better serve our Chicago and Cook County clients. COLLABORATION When you partner with Upland Design, we provide a full range of resources, bringing in just the right specialists for each unique project. We see our role as both leaders and listeners so that clients, sub-consultants and contractors are part of the team process for a collaborative solution. We have the experience necessary to lead the team or act as part of a larger team...

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- Published: 2015-12-04
- Modified: 2017-12-01
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/project-partners/

Do You Have A Construction Project We Can Help With? Get a free quoteEach city and village has a unique sense of place and distinct goals. We listen to you and ask questions that reveal the personality of your community. This collaboration allows us to go outside of the ordinary. It inspires great spaces that bring out the best in each place. UplandDesign invites you to see the wide array of completed client project that range from parks and playgrounds to streetscapes and landscape architecture. City of Aurora Aurora Transportation Center Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan Bartlett Park District Regency Oaks Playground Windy Oaks Playground Bartlett Reserve Playground Batavia Park District Memorial Park Master Plan and Renovation Engstrom Park Master Plan West Main Community Park Master Plan Levi Newton Park Riverwalk Playground Murphy Memorial Shelter Millview Park Playground Riverwalk Renovation Riverwalk Plaza Renovation Trusted Partners Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco. Get A Quote TodayAt vero eos et accusamus et iusto odio dignissimos ducimus qui blanditiis praesentium voluptatum deleniti atque corrupti quos dolores et quas.

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- Published: 2015-12-04
- Modified: 2021-01-04
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/work/

Go Outside AllAcademicCivicComprehensive Master PlanningGrantsParksPlanningPlaygroundsPublic EngagementRetail & CommercialSportsStreetscapes & TransporationStephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces2025-11-05T08:54:37-06:00 Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces Gallery Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces Academic, Playgrounds Naperville Streetscape Standards2025-10-21T07:35:43-05:00 Naperville Streetscape Standards Gallery Naperville Streetscape Standards Civic, Comprehensive Master Planning, Public Engagement, Streetscapes & Transporation Aux Sable Springs Park2025-11-05T08:29:45-06:00 Aux Sable Springs Park Gallery Aux Sable Springs Park Grants, Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement, Retail & Commercial, Sports West Chatham2025-10-17T11:21:46-05:00 West Chatham Gallery West Chatham Sports St. Francis- Sustainable Parking Lot & Entry Signage2025-10-17T11:25:37-05:00 St. Francis- Sustainable Parking Lot & Entry Signage Gallery St. Francis- Sustainable Parking Lot & Entry Signage Academic, Streetscapes & Transporation Shabbona Park2025-10-21T08:37:15-05:00 Shabbona Park Gallery Shabbona Park Academic Hiawatha Park2025-10-20T13:09:15-05:00 Hiawatha Park Gallery Hiawatha Park Parks, Playgrounds Clarendon Hills2025-10-17T12:14:43-05:00 Clarendon Hills Gallery Clarendon Hills Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation Park & Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Batavia Park District2025-10-17T12:03:47-05:00 Park & Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Batavia Park District Gallery Park & Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Batavia Park District Planning West Main Park Master Plan2025-10-17T11:36:32-05:00 West Main Park Master Plan Gallery West Main Park Master Plan Parks, Public Engagement, Sports Jackie Robinson Playground2025-10-17T13:05:53-05:00 Jackie Robinson Playground Gallery Jackie Robinson Playground Academic Brentwood Park Playground2025-10-17T19:41:51-05:00 Brentwood Park Playground Gallery Brentwood Park Playground Parks, Playgrounds Carpenter Park and Playground2025-10-17T13:05:20-05:00 Carpenter Park and Playground Gallery Carpenter Park and Playground Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement, Streetscapes & Transporation Iron Oaks2025-10-17T13:09:10-05:00 Iron Oaks Gallery Iron Oaks Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement Lions Park2025-10-17T12:20:02-05:00 Lions Park Gallery Lions Park Sports Kiwanis...

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- Published: 2015-12-04
- Modified: 2019-04-15
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/news/

1201, 2023 Maria Blood and Elizabeth Dafoe Promoted To Principal Gallery Maria Blood and Elizabeth Dafoe Promoted To Principal Uncategorized Maria Blood and Elizabeth Dafoe Promoted To Principal2023-01-12T00:58:12-06:00Uncategorized| PRESS RELEASE Upland Design Ltd founding principals Michelle A. Kelly and Heath A. WrightRead More 1101, 2023 Rain Gardens Gallery Rain Gardens News Rain Gardens2023-01-12T00:16:35-06:00News| Rain gardens have multiple benefits that can solve common drainage problems from a communityRead More 2812, 2022 Centennial Park: An Oasis in a Park Desert Gallery Centennial Park: An Oasis in a Park Desert News Centennial Park: An Oasis in a Park Desert2022-12-28T11:06:12-06:00News| Centennial Park, located at 155 E. St. Charles Road, was named in honor ofRead More 904, 2021 Public Engagement during COVID 2021 Gallery Public Engagement during COVID 2021 News Public Engagement during COVID 20212021-04-09T11:04:58-05:00News| Public Engagement during COVID 2021 Energize and Innovate Your Input Process in the TimeRead More 701, 2021 Goodbye 2020 and Welcome 2021 Gallery Goodbye 2020 and Welcome 2021 News Goodbye 2020 and Welcome 20212021-01-12T10:40:48-06:00News| Goodbye 2020 and Welcome 2021 There are so many things from 2020 that weRead More 1311, 2020 Community Engagement Strategy Gallery Community Engagement Strategy News Community Engagement Strategy2020-11-18T10:01:38-06:00News| Upland Design’s Strategy To Get The Community Involved Upland Design has created engaging spacesRead More 12NextBuilding Inspiring Spaces We bring fresh ideas and possibilities with the technical expertise you need in landscape architecture and planning. View Project Gallery

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## Posts

- Published: 2023-01-12
- Modified: 2023-01-12
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/maria-blood-and-elizabeth-dafoe-promoted-to-principal/
- Categories: Uncategorized

PRESS RELEASE Upland Design Ltd founding principals Michelle A. Kelly and Heath A. Wright are honored to announce the promotion of Senior Landscape Architects, Maria Blood and Elizabeth Dafoe, to equity partners and principals. Michelle Kelly shares, “2023 is the 25th anniversary of the firm-making this an amazing time to expand the leadership. Liz and Maria and been integral to the growth of the firm, and have built so much of their careers here. We are thrilled to have them take on these larger roles with Heath and I. ” Maria and Liz started with Upland Design at the same time eleven years ago and have grown in their roles through the years as the firm has grown. With offices in both Chicago on Goose Island and in historic downtown Plainfield, the two have helped grow the firm’s work across Illinois as well as Indiana and Michigan. Maria is instrumental in leading projects with multi-disciplinary teams at Upland. With fourteen years of experience, she has focused on engaging with clients and communities to create wonderful outdoor public spaces. From large community parks to campus sites and public plazas, Maria uses her creativity to successfully guide a project through master planning to a built project. She directs the Plainfield design team. Maria graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. She is a Registered Landscape Architect in Illinois, a Certified LEED AP BD+C and an NRPA Certified Playground Safety Inspector. Liz directs the Chicago design team...

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- Published: 2023-01-11
- Modified: 2023-01-12
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/rain-gardens/
- Categories: News
- Formats: Image

Rain gardens have multiple benefits that can solve common drainage problems from a community playground to the edge of a parking lot. They are beneficial for our pollinator friends, and they are also good for preventing soil erosion. Rain gardens work by using deep-rooted plant species inside of a depressed bed that traps storm water. This process gathers the moving water, which also works to prevent run off. When properly installed, the ground water will be gradually absorbed in a day or less. Because of the quick absorption, mosquito habitat is minimized. The water is filtered by the roots before being absorbed, which can also help to clean contaminated waters before it makes its way into the aquifers and natural waterways. With a sewer system that dates back to 1880 in some parts of the city, Aurora, Illinois has incorporated the IEPA (Illinois Environmental Protection Agency) economical plan to help keep the Fox River safe by incorporating rain gardens to the city landscape. This is reducing the amount of pollution that reaches the river, feeding the pollinators, and adding low maintenance- natural beauty to the street corners. Additional benefits include using these gardens as a means to slow neighborhood traffic. The city’s rain garden designs create bump-outs at the intersections, automatically making drivers slow down at the crosswalks. Rain gardens can be created anywhere that water regularly pools. At Lawn Manor park site in Oak Lawn, Illinois, Upland created a rain garden to assist with infiltration and insect habitat. A...

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- Published: 2022-12-28
- Modified: 2022-12-28
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/centennial-park-an-oasis-in-a-park-desert/
- Categories: News
- Formats: Image

Centennial Park, located at 155 E. St. Charles Road, was named in honor of the park districts 100th year anniversary (Giuliani,D. 2021) It has been 30 years since the Elmhurst Park District established a new park and the neighborhood around the new park was part of a park desert, meaning prior to this space being imagined, residents of this neighborhood were unable to access a park without crossing railroad tracks or a busy intersection. Studies have shown that when community members have access to parks, it can “help reduce obesity and incidence of chronic disease by providing opportunities to increase rigorous physical activity in a variety of forms... Public parks and recreation are the gateways to a healthier America, and they ensure that communities are truly livable”. (National Recreation and Park Associate (NRPA), n. d. ). Upland Design was honored to be a part of imagining what this park could be. Our team engaged with residents, stakeholders, and neighborhood kids to find out what they wanted at the park site. With the help of E. Hoffman Inc. , general contractors to build the project, Centennial Park now boasts a ton fun including a 2-12 playground with custom climbing structure, fitness equipment, game tables, green roofed shelter, and a mini-splash pad. For More Information An Elmhurst 'Park Desert' No More Official. Patch. Retrieved September 20, 2022

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- Published: 2021-04-09
- Modified: 2021-04-09
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/public-engagement-during-covid-2021/
- Categories: News
- Formats: Image

Public Engagement during COVID 2021 Energize and Innovate Your Input Process in the Time of COVID-19 and Beyond. Public engagement meetings are designed to share information and gather input from the community of future projects. What does the community want in a park or plaza? What are their concerns and why? Giving the community opportunities to provide input is a key element in successful open space design. Public Meeting Formats So how do you generate public engagement? Four formats can be utilized to garner community input. These include Public Open Houses, Online Presentations, Online Surveys, and Multi-faceted options. Open Houses are an excellent option during COVID-19, as it allows residents to attend across a span of time, rather than being in the room all at once. This is great for voting and mingling in a larger room or outside setting. Open houses also have the option to be held via Zoom, allowing people to attend at any time within the live hours. Online Meetings are another useful format during COVID and beyond. This allows a wider audience to attend that may not normally be able. With so many new formats for virtual meetings, you can pick which one offers benefits most suitable to your needs. Options include Google Meets, Microsoft Teams, Free Conference Call, and the most popular platform, Zoom. Presentations should utilize visual graphics that are shared so everyone gets the same information. Input is garnered through voting and dialogue options, as well as questions and answers that are...

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- Published: 2021-01-07
- Modified: 2021-01-12
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/goodbye-2020-and-welcome-2021/
- Categories: News
- Formats: Image

Goodbye 2020 and Welcome 2021 There are so many things from 2020 that we all would like to leave behind. Masks? Social Distancing? And the whole darn Pandemic! What was a challenging year has also brought some leaps in our work including technology, Zoom, working from home and one of the most important: the way communities have embraced their outdoor spaces! Streetscapes turned into outdoor dining. Parks become the central destination for outings. Nightly walks and waving to neighbors... and lots of new pets! The offices at Upland Design may be different now, but our work has not faltered. Our team has adapted to the new era so that we may continue to deliver the same high-quality work on which we pride ourselves. Just how has 2020 changed Upland Design? One word: Zoom. Thanks to the age-of-the-internet, the transition from in-person interactions to virtual has been almost seamless (not accounting for how often Fluffy interrupts a meeting). Upland Design has taken our process virtual, with public input meetings being held via Zoom to comply with new regulations. In these digital interactions, we are still able to survey participants in real-time and generate feedback. Overall, we utilize the tools available to ensure communities are heard, so we may design engaging spaces with their needs and wants in mind. With so much time spent indoors, communities have developed a new appreciation for the ability to Go Outside. Working from home, children's homeschooling and community activities have generated a need for interaction in...

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- Published: 2020-11-13
- Modified: 2020-11-18
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/community-engagement-strategy/
- Categories: News
- Formats: Image

Upland Design’s Strategy To Get The Community Involved Upland Design has created engaging spaces for communities for the past 22 years. Our goal is to improve the quality of life by encouraging people to Go Outside. Community input is a vital step to the design process. So, how do we incorporate the collective mind in our designs? By talking to them! Public outreach plays a vital role in creating spaces that reflect the needs of each community. From the initial stakeholder meeting to the last input meeting, several steps make up Upland's Community Engagement Strategy. Upland Design’s toolbox for community outreach is broad. It includes small focus group meetings, public open houses, presentations, online surveys, and real-time public meeting surveys. An option that some communities engage well with is a project focused web site for larger planning projects where community members might want to check in on the planning as work moves forward. Another tool is having a steering committee of community members that can be the eyes, ears, and cheerleaders to get more people involved and steer the project for cohesive results. Getting the word out is crucial for public input meetings. We can create the graphics needed for newspapers, social media, and email blasts, as well as reaching out to local social media groups ourselves. In these pandemic times, Upland utilizes technology to host meetings with online group meetings tools. Presentations include concept sketches, photos, aesthetic options, and real-time polls and surveys. These engaging practices ensure that the...

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- Published: 2020-09-02
- Modified: 2020-09-02
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/swallow-cliff-gets-a-second-set-of-stairs/
- Categories: Construction, News
- Formats: Image

Swallow Cliff is a 100ft-high bluff that formed around 12,000 years ago from glacial action. Today it is best known by its 125 limestone stairs built in 1930 as part of a CCC project. The original limestone stairway is historic and allows visiting athletes to work out in a natural setting. Whether visitors take just one trip or beat personal records with 17 trips, the 125-step staircase is a non-stop challenging workout. The Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC) took note of the popularity of this fitness attraction and wanted to expand for visitors and reduce congestion. ! In 2016, Upland designed a second set of stairs and an access path to complete the unique fitness circuit. Adding the second set, FPCC aimed to complete the workout circuit, providing a one-way incline and decline while reducing the congestion on the hill. The second set of 168 limestone stairs designed by Upland sits just west of the original incline. With versatility in mind, this new addition offers patrons a landing every 10 steps. Many who come enjoy the chance to rest at any point without interrupting the flow of traffic. With the current COVID pandemic, the Forest Preserve has signed the well-used double stairway for one-way use. Palos Park celebrated the official ribbon-cutting of Upland’s design on June 25, 2016. Since then, thousands of visitors have enjoyed the opportunity to Go Outside for their workouts. In early July of 2020, Swallow Cliff reopened to the public after a 4-month closure due...

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- Published: 2020-06-19
- Modified: 2020-06-19
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/orland-park-nature-center-celebrates-soft-opening/
- Categories: Construction, News
- Formats: Image

On June 3rd, the Orland Park Nature Center celebrated its soft opening. Mayor Keith Pekau led the opening with the village’s Board of Trustees, Open Lands Commission, and Upland’s own Michelle Kelly, Liz Dafoe, and Heath Wright. Trustee Kathleen Fenton had the honor of cutting the red ribbon. The two-acre site will join Orland Park’s 650 acres of parkland, featuring a mix of the village’s wetlands and grasslands. Upon arrival, visitors escape the suburban roadways to meet the sounds of local wildlife. Ornithophiles can enjoy a dedicated bird watching station, complete with binoculars overlooking the adjacent wetlands. This bird habitat was generously donated by Steven and Matina Gianakas in honor of their late son, George. Spiraling around the center, a crushed limestone trail guides visitors through native gardens featuring savannah shade trees, prairie grasses, and wetland plants. The shaded picnic areas casts shadows from custom leaf patterns cut in the canopies. Nestled in the middle of the rehabilitated land are a central plaza, amphitheater, and outdoor classroom space. Now open to Orland Park, this nature center will provide an oasis for local fauna while bringing the public closer to nature.

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- Published: 2020-05-30
- Modified: 2022-05-09
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/upland-design-assists-the-illinois-tollway-tree-project/
- Categories: Construction, News

Arbor Day 2018 marked the announcement of major changes to Illinois highways. The Illinois Tollway released a master plan to add 58,000 trees within the next three years. Upland Design plays a crucial role in the installation of these trees along the I-90 corridor. Upland's professional services provide Construction Management with two contracts. As the Resident Engineer, Upland's team oversees the inspection of plant material, suitable location identification, and field adjustments. Additionally, Upland Design works with contractors maintaining the plant material for successful outcomes of a greener Tollway. The tree planting and maintenance work will continue for the next four years and the master plan implementation will help stabilize local soils, filter stormwater, control snowdrifts, and improve the beauty of Illinois.

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- Published: 2019-10-29
- Modified: 2019-10-29
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/landscape-structures-visit/
- Categories: Construction, News

Last week, Upland team members Michelle, Maria and Liz visited playground equipment manufacturer Landscape Structures headquarters and factory in Delano, Minnesota. The Upland Design team accompanied Rick Bieterman from Nutoys Leisure Products and met with Pat Faust, President of Landscape Structures, and David Smith, Vice President of Sales to see what's new at LSI. We also met with custom design staff, tested out their in office slide and toured the factory to watch the magic happen. LSI is 100% employee owned business and watching the passion which everyone works was inspiring. We also were inspired while visiting parks and playgrounds to design even more fun play spaces for the communities we work for. What a great job we have!

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- Published: 2019-10-01
- Modified: 2022-05-04
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/palatine-has-two-new-playgrounds/
- Categories: Construction, News

Need another reason to Go Outside? Visit two new playgrounds within the Palatine Park District system. Lindberg Park and Dutch Schultz Park's both have brand new playgrounds with the help of Upland Design. Each include lots of climbing and sliding! At Lindberg the shelter and walks have been renovated as well. If you travel to Dutch Schultz, you will also find a new fitness area just across from the playground. Go Outside while the weather is still beautiful!

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- Published: 2019-08-17
- Modified: 2019-10-01
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/mansfield-park-new-playground/
- Categories: Construction, News

Want to hang out in the trees? Visit Mansfield Park new playground! Located on Church Street, the Morton Grove Park District’s newest play area is getting lots of kids enjoying this new playground that the Upland team helped create. With a 14′ tall tunnel slide and lots of climbing options, the site is getting families from all over Morton Grove visiting since it opened last weekend. Seating and picnicking in the shade make this site a comfortable place for adults to hang out while the kids explore the new playground. There is a sand play area and eight swings including a friendly two person swing. Go Outside!

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- Published: 2019-06-18
- Modified: 2019-06-18
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/splash-pads-are-opening/
- Categories: Architecture, Construction, News

The sun is starting to come out and it is finally warming up in the Midwest. This flow through splash pad and playground development was organized and largely donated by the Frankenmuth Jaycees and designed by Upland Design. Last week's grand opening was just in time for the end of school and the community is loving it's new park! Local artists painted a beautiful mural on the side of the restroom / changing area that includes "water droplets" with names of those who helped fund the park renovations. The splash pad equipment from Rain Drop includes a combination of above ground features, at grade flush sprayers and accessible interactive elements so fun can be had by all. Benches and shade sails surround the play area for those looking to stay dry and a playground and sensory garden compliment the splash area. The sequenced elements control the gallons of water being used.

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- Published: 2019-05-06
- Modified: 2019-05-06
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/wheeling-town-center/
- Categories: Architecture, Buildings, Construction, News

Wheeling Town Center is a transit- oriented mixed-use development featuring 100,000 square feet of retail and 301 residential apartments units. The new development is located between the Wheeling Metra Station, Park District recreation spaces and the Village Hall. With a new cinema and restaurants currently underway, it is going to be a great destination for fun and entertainment. Upland Design has been working with the developer and CallisonRTLK for the past four years creating outdoor public spaces as well as a private outdoor courtyard for the apartment building. With stone walls, shade shelters, artificial turf and detailed paving designs, it has been both fun and rewarding to work on.

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- Published: 2018-10-03
- Modified: 2022-05-09
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/parking-day-in-downtown-plainfield/
- Categories: Architecture, Buildings, Construction, News
- Tags: Construction, playground

On September 21, Upland Design participated in PARK(ing) Day for the second time. Starting in 2005, PARK(ing) Day is an annual worldwide celebration that encourages professionals, students, and community members to transform parking spaces into a parklet for the day. PARK(ing) Day is a fun, creative outlet to transform a small portion of vehicular real estate into a space for users to recreate. Our theme this year was Dynamic Play, which celebrated key elements that define great park and play spaces. These include: moving parts, nature, social inclusion, imagination, seating, safety, space, and diversity. Our parklet included outdoor games such as life-size checkers and baggo that included moving pieces and social inclusion. We had benches for seating and our favorite Little Tikes dinosaur, Sara, to welcome visitors. Sara was set on Rubber safety tiles, a common playground surface that meets ASTM required impact attenuation. To inform locals of what dynamic play is, informational signage of each of the dynamic play elements were scattered throughout our two-stall-park. The team had a fun day in the parklet with locals from nearby shops and restaurants who made pit stops to join us. Check out our Instagram @uplanddesignltd to see more pictures our parklet and give us a follow to see on-going projects! Go to www. asla. org to learn more about PARK(ing) Day and see how other firms around the country designed their parklets!

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- Published: 2018-08-15
- Modified: 2022-05-09
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/community-build-a-success/
- Categories: Architecture, Buildings, Construction, News
- Tags: Construction, playground

Over the weekend, Liz Dafoe from Upland Design participated in a community build in her hometown of Frankenmuth, MI. Over 40 volunteers came together to help construct play equipment from Landscape Structures. A 2-5 year old Weevos structure, 5-12 year old Venti Structure and swings were all pieced together and placed on Saturday. Upland Design has been assisting the Frankenmuth Jaycees with plans for a new splash pad, playground and sensory garden. The Jaycees have raised almost a million dollars for the park improvements and restroom building located behind the high school in Memorial Park. Construction started earlier this spring with the help of numerous donations and volunteer hours. Play surfacing and concrete at the splash pad are next on the schedule with completion scheduled for this summer. Drone photos provided by Brent Weiss.

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- Published: 2018-05-14
- Modified: 2022-05-30
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/west-chatham-park-turf-field-almost-finished/
- Categories: Architecture, Buildings, Construction, News
- Tags: Construction, Honored, House Building

New Artificial Turf West Chatham Park on Chicago's Southside is undergoing a transformation. The previous natural turf football practice field and baseball diamond are being revamped with artificial turf. This new field was designed to accommodate soccer, football and baseball/softball field with a 300' outfield. It also includes over a foot of gravel to act as storm water detention to meet city codes. Currently, the field numbers and tick marks are being inlaid with the infield cut in. New sports lighting, scoreboard and bleachers are also being made ready for the first games to be played. Field improvements are scheduled to be complete by the end of the month. Thanks to All-Bry Construction for the aerial photograph and great work on this project for the Chicago Park District.

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- Published: 2017-12-06
- Modified: 2022-07-05
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/west-chatham-park-news/
- Categories: Architecture, Buildings, Construction, News
- Tags: Construction, Honored, House Building

New Artificial Turf West Chatham Park is getting new multi-purpose artificial turf fields with the planning help of Upland Design. Permeable gravel is being placed at the new fields by Albry Construction this week. Mayor Rahm Emanuel along with Michael Kelly of the Chicago Park District, and Forrest Claypool of Chicago Public Schools led the ground breaking with an enthusiastic group of neighbors, students, teachers, and coaches all cheering on the project. The sports fields include layouts for football, soccer, and baseball with a walking loop around the outside which ties into existing walks at the park. The project will open for play in 2018.

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- Published: 2017-01-13
- Modified: 2018-01-05
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/thank-you-m-i-p-e/
- Categories: News

On January 12, 2017, the Midwest Institute of Park Executives (M. I. P. E. ) announced that firm principals Michelle Kelly and Heath Wright are their 2016 Outstanding Associates. This award is presented to a vendor member who has made exceptional contributions to the organization throughout the year. Upland Design staff continues to enjoy supporting M. I. P. E. while attending workshops as well as facility and park tours. Meeting new parkies and learning firsthand from planning and maintenance staff is a benefit that keeps us coming back. Thanks for providing us with this honor. http://www. parkexecutives. com/

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- Published: 2016-08-18
- Modified: 2022-05-30
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/engstrom-park-grand-opening/
- Categories: Architecture, Buildings, Construction, News
- Tags: Construction, Honored, House Building

Engstrom Park Grand Opening This past weekend, the Batavia Park District celebrated the re-dedication of its 14 acre Engstrom Park. Upland Design led the multi-phase renovation and is pleased to be involved in another great project in Batavia. In order to accommodate a summer full of festivals and the soccer season schedule, the site improvements were designed and constructed over multiple years. To celebrate the completion of the final phase, the Batavia Park District hosted refreshments and a series of fun games under the newly updated shelter. Kids enjoyed the new playground which features a new structure, zip line and poured-in-place rubber surfacing. Residents are connected by the refreshed park trail system to all the newly updated baseball fields, basketball court and redesigned parking lots. In addition to aesthetic and component upgrades, Upland Design coordinated drainage improvements including sustainable strategies and rain gardens. Come check out the new improvements at Engstrom Park located on Main Street and Millview Drive in Batavia.

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- Published: 2016-06-09
- Modified: 2022-05-09
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/houston-street-planters/
- Categories: Architecture, Buildings, Construction, News
- Tags: Construction, Honored, House Building

Houston Street Planters This week the City of Batavia, Batavia Park District, Batavia MainStreet, and other local volunteers came together to install new plantings along Houston Street in Batavia. The City of Batavia saved approximately $33,000 by using volunteers rather than hiring a crew. The planter updates now include Boxwood, Roses, Catmint, Alliums, and Daylilies to add pops of color all season. This fall bulbs are scheduled to be installed to extend the seasonal floral display. Check out more photos on Batavia Park District’s facebook page. This streetscape work was part of two planting plans that Upland Design assisted the City with in their downtown.

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- Published: 2016-03-09
- Modified: 2022-05-30
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/building-dynamic-playgrounds/
- Categories: Architecture, Buildings, Construction, News
- Tags: Construction, Honored, House Building

Building Dynamic Playgrounds Check out Michelle’s great article about Dynamic Play featured in March’s issue of Parks and Recreation Magazine! It features Hiawatha Park as a great example of utilizing the some of the nine key elements highlighted for building dynamic playgrounds.

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## Portfolio

- Published: 2025-11-04
- Modified: 2025-11-05
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/stephanies-garden-and-nature-education-spaces/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic, Playgrounds

Stephanie’s Garden and Nature Education SpacesStephanie’s Garden and Nature Education Spaces Upland Design assisted the Kendall County Forest Preserve and their volunteer led group to create a plan and fund raising package for Stephanie’s Garden, an outdoor education and play space for the kids of Kendall County and the Forest Preserve pre-school classes. The project planning incorporated a number of focus group meetings with the volunteers and Forest Preserve staff. The interactive meetings allowed everyone to share their ideas and vision for the project. Then the designers created plans and images that would help the group fund raise through grants, donations and events. The Forest Preserve District adopted the plans and fund raising and building got underway. To date, a fully accessible mud kitchen, butterfly house, and butterfly garden have been built. The plans and images created for the different learning and play zones in Stephanie’s Garden highlight learning as an integral part of play. Project Details CLIENT Kendall County Forest Preserve District PROJECT TYPE Education Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-20
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/naperville-streetscape-standards/
- Portfolio Categories: Civic, Comprehensive Master Planning, Public Engagement, Streetscapes & Transporation

Naperville Streetscape StandardsNaperville Streetscape Standards Upland Design worked closely with City staff and team engineers to create new streetscape standards for the 40 blocks of downtown Naperville. An in-depth site analysis took place along with categorizing streetscape furniture and trees. Using public input meetings, focus groups and stakeholders meetings, the many choices were narrowed to one set of standards to be used throughout downtown. The new planning document give flexibility to the streetscape for the varied width of right of ways throughout the downtown. Standards include paver selection and design layout, seat walls, site furniture, landscaping and new festival spaces. Project Details CLIENT City of Naperville PROJECT TYPE Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-16
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/west-chatham/
- Portfolio Categories: Sports

West ChathamWest Chatham Park - Artificial Turf Athletic Fields Located in Chicago adjacent to several schools, this park was in need of better sports facilities for the students and neighbors. To this end, the project includes a large artificial turf field with a combination of football, soccer and baseball. Reorientation of an existing softball field, the addition of sports netting and landscape improvements rounds out the $2. 5 million project. From concept planning through construction administration, Upland Design married Chicago Park District standards with best design practices to provide a cutting edge facility. IT includes portable pitching mounds, removable bases, 30’ tall safety netting along with accessible paths, spectator areas and dugouts. As the prime consultant and experts in artificial turf, Upland leads the concept planning, construction drawings, City of Chicago permitting and construction administration for the refreshed sports field site. Project Details CLIENT Chicago Park District PROJECT TYPE Sports & Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-16
- Modified: 2025-11-05
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/aux-sable-springs-park/
- Portfolio Categories: Grants, Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement, Retail & Commercial, Sports

Aux Sable Springs ParkAux Sable Springs Park In 2018, Upland Design, Engineering Resources Associates, and Charles Vincent George Architects began a master planning process for an open space site along the Aux Sable Creek. The Village of Minooka and Kendall County Forest Preserve had jointly purchased the natural areas along the creek and woodlands while the Village solely owned the farm land. The team implemented a input process to garner feedback on project amenities and enhancements inviting the public to public open house meetings with written surveys. The plan was developed with the Village Park Committee weighing in at various stages until the final plan was adopted. Upland then wrote an OSLAD grant which was awarded. The team created construction documents and the project was permitted. Phase I construction was completed in January of 2021. The current project includes a canoe launch, two parking lots, asphalt and crushed stone trails, a council ring, playground, savannah and wetland enhancements, three ball fields, a soccer field and a lacrosse field. Project Details CLIENT Village of Minooka with Kendall County Forest Preserve PROJECT TYPE Parks, Playgrounds, Sports & Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-15
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/st-francis-sustainable-parking-lot-entry-signage/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic, Streetscapes & Transporation

St. Francis Sustainable Parking Lot & Entry SignageSustainable Parking Lot and Entry Signage The University of St. Francis, located in Joliet, Illinois, is a growing campus near downtown. Upland Design was brought in to overhaul the main vehicular entrance to the Motherhouse and Welcome Center. To meet expanding parking needs as well as a drop off to the Welcome Center, Upland Design worked with staff to provide an economical solution on the uniquely shaped site. The University also desired to lead by example with sustainable practices by including permeable pavers in the parking lot, LED lighting, and onsite detention. All of these were incorporated into the plans while creating a welcoming space for visitors, students and staff. A new gateway sign was added at the corner of Route 30 and Taylor Street that ties into the historic stone architecture of the Motherhouse. Landscaping at the building entry, sign and perimeter of the parking lot provide a welcoming but low maintenance backdrop to the facility. Project Details CLIENT University of St. Francis, Joliet, Illinois PROJECT TYPE Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-14
- Modified: 2025-10-20
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/hiawatha-park/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Hiawatha ParkHiawatha Park Playground & Splash Pad Working with community members, the alderman and the Chicago Park District, Upland Design created an innovative playground design that incorporates vibrant play equipment and poured rubber mounds to create a unique and exciting experience. Undulating mounds and ramps connect climbers and slides to each other and the shade plaza. Kids can loop through the area as they explore and challenge themselves on the varying sizes of climbers and balancing events. The new playground also includes traditional swings, a tire swing and an accessible seat swing. A play panel house with talk tubes provide a quiet 2-5 year old play zone. The new central shade plaza provides a drinking fountain, tables, 20’ cantilevered shade sail and new splash pad. The splash pad gives the neighborhood kids a place to get cool with two cycled features that the kids can turn on with a foot button. Project Details CLIENT Chicago Park District PROJECT TYPE Playground Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-14
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/shabbona-park/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic

Shabbona ParkShabbona Park Shabbona Park is a major activity center for the Dunning community in Chicago and has a large special needs program for area children. Upland Design assisted the Chicago Park District renovating 15,000 square feet of the park with an exciting new playground and splash pad. With neighborhood and park staff input, the renovation fits what residents want. The splash pad, a former wading pool was upgraded to provide accessible paving with multiple jets and spray misters for kids of all ages and abilities. The playground now provides a tot area, a 5-12 year old structure as well as music panels and plenty of swings. The large play structure’s main entrance has a ramp to provide access to much of the elevated play. At the same time, a challenging 8’ deck offers views of the park before kids slide back to the ground. The playgrounds many benches, game tables, and seat walls offer plenty of seating for waiting parents. Rubber surfacing runs throughout the playground providing a resilient and playful surface. Project Details CLIENT Shabbona Park PROJECT TYPE Residential Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-09
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/west-main-park-master-plan/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Public Engagement, Sports

West Main Park Master PlanWest Main Park Master Plan Upland Design led a master plan process with the Batavia Park District for the expansion of an existing community park site. The eastern third of the park is in place, but the western portion has not been built. The future park site will have a County road divide it when the population expands, so planning for both current and future circulation was important. Community sports groups as well as the local high school gave input for the future sports complex. The final plan expands sports and park opportunities with the following elements: Three Lighted Baseball Fields One Lighted Multi-Use Field Five Practice Soccer fields Rugby Field Paved Walking Loop with Fitness Stations Cross Country Running Course Community Playground Community Picnic Shelter Restroom, Concession and Storage Building Maintenance Facility Permeable Paving Parking Lot Rain Garden and Native Grass Areas Project Details CLIENT Batavia Park District PROJECT TYPE Parks Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-09
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/park-recreation-comprehensive-master-plan-batavia-park-district/
- Portfolio Categories: Planning

Park & Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Batavia Park DistrictPark and Recreation Comprehensive Master Plan Upland Design was hired as part of a team to assist the Batavia Park District create a new comprehensive park and recreation plan. Upland Design is undertaking the parks and amenities inventory and assessment. This includes review of all existing park sites, reviewing existing and future needs and recommending updates and improvements to each park site. Once complete, a detailed capital development list was created along with cost estimates for capital development budgets. Upland Design has worked with the Batavia Park District since 2004 assisting with new park development, existing park renovations, OSLAD grant projects and capital development planning. Project Details CLIENT Batavia Park District PROJECT TYPE Planning Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-09
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/clarendon-hills/
- Portfolio Categories: Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

Clarendon HillsClarendon Hills Multi-Use Building Site Planning Located in downtown Clarendon Hills, a formerly vacant lot has been transformed into a multi-use four story building. The first floor includes commercial/retail space along with seven live/work apartments. Upper floors are made up of 35 one and two bedroom luxury apartments. The site planning includes an outdoor entry space for each ground floor unit along with public plaza space with seating, landscaping and a pergola for shade. With its downtown location, streetscape elements were included to fit into the existing urban fabric while saving trees and providing on street parking. Project Details CLIENT Brad Smith PROJECT TYPE Commercial Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-08
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/jackie-robinson-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic

Jackie Robinson PlaygroundJackie Robinson Playground Upland Design designed an exciting play experience at Jackie Robinson Park for the neighborhood as well as the kids at Mount Vernon Elementary School. The new playground creates a challenging environment with climbers up and slides down. The bright orange and green equipment include a 10′ high deck, swings and a group spring event to keep kids moving. Rubber surfacing was specified to improve safety and reduce maintenance while making the whole playground ADA accessible. Amenities also include a seat wall, plaza space with picnic tables, accessible walk and drinking fountain. The uniform color surfacing was one of many items picked through popular vote at public input meetings. The green surface blends easily with the surrounding lawn and makes the orange play piece pop. Project Details CLIENT Mount Vernon Elementary School PROJECT TYPE Education Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-07
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/iron-oaks/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement

Iron OaksIron Oaks Irons Oaks is a joint project of the Homewood–Flossmoor and Olympia Fields Park Districts. The nature center combines adventure, recreation and education at the 40 acre site in Olympia Fields with day camps, adventure course workshops, and nature programs to the greater Chicagoland community. With the help of multiple input sessions including a values based planning approach, Upland Design developed a master plan guided by the experienced Irons Oaks staff and dedicated volunteers. The master plan’s focus is strongly led by the site’s existing natural hydrology and topography. To help entice community members to visit the site, a new Nature Based Play Area is located near the parking lot. The play area focuses on introducing users to the site and nature. Utilizing the natural ravine, its Look Out Tree House creates an exciting entrance for visitors. Project Details CLIENT Homewood–Flossmoor and Olympia Fields Park Districts PROJECT TYPE Park New Elements Include: Amphitheater, Community Shelter, Nature Based Play Area, Overlook Deck, Outdoor Classrooms, Council Ring, Event Plaza, Additional Parking, Trails and Boardwalk, Restrooms, Wayfinding and Entry Signage Upland Design’s recommendations were environmentally sensitive and highlighted the site’s natural ecosystem. The overall project goals of maximizing active space for programming needs while enhancing the natural systems and inviting the public to use the site while improving accessibility were met. Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-07
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/carpenter-park-and-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement, Streetscapes & Transporation

Carpenter Park and PlaygroundCarpenter Park and Playground Working closely with the Village of Carpentersville, Upland Design created a new master plan for their centrally located historic park. The new master plan design took into account existing programs and users of the park. Amenities include a nature playground, picnic shelter, bag games, basketball courts, disc golf, and softball field. A four season sensory garden was designed to enclose the veteran’s memorial area to create a more intimate area and separation with the rest of the active park. Asphalt paths around the park were included to connect the park to regional trails including the Fox River Trial. Improvements to the creek that flow through the park were also added to improve the aesthetics as habitat for pollinators. Project Details CLIENT Village of Carpentersville PROJECT TYPE Playground Carpenter Park Playground The new Carpenter Park playground was created as part of a larger OSLAD grant project. The playground has a nature theme with a mix of colors and textures as well as a landform elevation change. It incorporates built play equipment, plantings, boulders, wood tree circles, stone walks and overhead trellis entry features. Rubber surfacing designed as a flowing river allows kids to take steppers across the water. The highest play surface on the play equipment provides a vantage point to see the whole park. Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-07
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/brentwood-park-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Brentwood Park PlaygroundBrentwood Park Playground With its natural area backdrop of forest preserve and creek edge, Brentwood Park has the perfect place for a nature playground. The Upland Design team led public open houses and meetings to gain input from staff and stakeholders to ensure the site reflected the needs and desires of the community. The playground includes rock climbing areas with hand painted creatures nestled among the play pieces. These include caterpillars, spiders, salamanders, snakes and dragon flies. Creatures were added to hopscotch as well as to the retaining walls to continue the imaginative nature theme. Rubber surfacing flows like water down the hill where a slide and hand grips give kids reason to play longer. A large shaded patio overlooking the play area was added for game tables and seating. Project Details CLIENT Batavia park District PROJECT TYPE Playground Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/lou-malnatis-pizzeria-landscape/
- Portfolio Categories: Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria LandscapeProject Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-20
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/outback-steakhouse-landscape/
- Portfolio Categories: Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

Outback Steakhouse LandscapeOutback Steakhouse Landscape As part of the development of a new Outback Steak House, Upland Design was brought on to assist the engineering team with landscape plans to meet the City of Joliet requirements while setting the feel for the site with plants. A mixture of shade trees, ornamentals trees, shrubs, perennials and grasses were combined to bring color throughout the seasons to the site. The landscape design meets the City ordinances for parking lot, site and buffer landscape requirements, while the final layout compliments the building architecture and site planning. Project Details CLIENT Robert E. Hamilton Consulting Engineers PROJECT TYPE Commercial, Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/landscape-planning-at-van-dyke-place/
- Portfolio Categories: Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

Landscape Planning at Van Dyke PlaceLandscape Planning at Van Dyke Place Located across from Village Hall on a major thoroughfare in Plainfield, this commercial development needed a classic streetscape and strong landscape presence. The site includes ten standalone buildings, shared parking lots, and numerous outdoor spaces to compliment the restaurants. Each outdoor space and the right of way sidewalks have design elements to keep the space interesting and beautiful while meeting the Village landscape requirements. Elements include planters, stone walls, raised beds, street trees, entry arches, seating and outdoor dining. Project Details CLIENT Van Dyke Place PROJECT TYPE Commercial, Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/hydrosystems-laboratory-expansion-and-renovation/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic, Streetscapes & Transporation

Hydrosystems Laboratory Expansion and RenovationHydrosystems Laboratory Expansion and Renovation The University of Illinois is undertaking the renovation and expansion of the Civil Engineering Hydrosystems Laboratory which will include a pedestrian bridge to the Newmark Civil Engineering Building. Upland Design Ltd is assisting the Reifsteck Reid & Company Architecture team with design of a pedestrian plaza, connections between the Hydrosystems and Newmark buildings with at grade pedestrian paths, landscape improvements and site furniture. An important exterior element is the connection of the engineering quad with the Main Street corridor where both pedestrians and vehicles need easy access. The new plans take this connection along with pedestrian comfort into account for a welcoming transition between spaces. Shown here are the images of the exterior improvements designed by Upland Design and prepared for presentation to the University. Project Details CLIENT University of Illinois Urbana Champaign PROJECT TYPE Education, Streetscapes & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/richland-elementary-outdoor-classroom/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic

Richland Elementary Outdoor ClassroomRichland Elementary Outdoor Classroom Richland School is creating a nature based dynamic, outdoor classroom space within the interior courtyard of their elementary building. Upland Design worked closely with staff and stakeholders to develop a master plan to guide planning and fundraising for the School. Through an interactive process, program elements and design ideas were explored to develop a peaceful and interactive space for students. The design includes an entry garden with reading nook, multiple classroom spaces, working gardens and larger group amphitheater space. A rain garden with native plants and butterfly garden are included to add sustainable and educational components. The planning includes a comprehensive cost estimate to assist with fund raising and prioritization. Project Details CLIENT Crest Hill, Illinois PROJECT TYPE Education Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/lambs-farm-barnyard-master-plan/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Lambs Farm Barnyard Master PlanLambs Farm Barnyard Master Plan Lambs Farm is a non-profit organization that serves people with developmental disabilities through vocational, residential, recreational and social opportunities. The Farmyard is the public face of Lambs Farm as it invites the Chicago regional community in to enjoy visiting live farm animals and participate in activities such as train rides, mini-golf and carousel rides. The Board and staff determined that aging facilities were in need of renovation. Upland Design was brought in create a master plan to guide the Farmyard visioning, renovation and redevelopment. Since its inception, the Farmyard at Lambs Farm has created fond memories for residents and visitors alike. The development of the master plan process was done with sensitivity to the amenities, style and emotion that bring people to the Farmyard. Over eight months, the design team met with staff, Board and volunteers through creative workshops, various stakeholder sessions and committee meetings allowing collaborative input. During the master plan process, project goals were created and centered on a balance between: Providing family entertainment Expanding the user age range Creating interactive elements Expanding educational opportunities Improving user comforts and accessibility Establishing a year round venue The master plan book includes a new layout for the Farmyard along with activity, amenity and staffing suggestions. A strategic phasing plan and cost estimate are included to assist with development. This comprehensive plan will allow the Farmyard to reach a wider audience, provide year round entertainment and fun, expand participant jobs and work...

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/kiwanis-park-master-plan/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds, Sports

Kiwanis Park Master PlanKiwanis Park Master Plan Kiwanis Park has served the DeKalb community as the major soccer complex for many years while the site was on leased land. With the purchase of the land to establish permanent open space, the Park District wanted to create a master plan that fit not just soccer, but the larger population as a true community park. Upland Design led the planning efforts with staff, stakeholders, and community input meetings. The process included preparing numerous concept plans as the project moved toward consensus with the various stakeholders. The final plan includes the ability to have eight full size soccer fields as well as lacrosse, football, and rugby. Recreation opportunities are then expanded in the new master plan to include basketball, pickle ball, a challenge course, mile walking loop, splash pad, playground, picnic shelter, restrooms, storage and expanded parking. Project Details CLIENT DeKalb Park District PROJECT TYPE Sports and Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/lions-park/
- Portfolio Categories: Sports

Lions ParkLions Park A major renovation to the existing three ball fields along with the field amenities is the core of this project at Lions Park. The Cary Park District wanted to bring the fields up to date while improving playability. Upland Design led the team of consultants to create new plans, gather community input and move the project from idea to a completely built facility. Key improvements include removal and replacement of the infield mix, new drainage, renovation and expansion of the restroom and concession building, all new paving at the ball field plaza, a new shade shelter, new dugouts, netting along the baselines of all three fields, new backstop fencing and landscape improvements. These sports complex updates invite the community to go outside and play! Project Details CLIENT Cary Park District PROJECT TYPE Sports and Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/chicago-fire-soccer-complex/
- Portfolio Categories: Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

Chicago Fire Soccer ComplexChicago Fire Soccer Complex Chicago Fire redeveloped a vacant manufacturing building as well as adjacent sites on Talman Avenue along the Chicago River with a new sports complex. The 4. 7 acre site includes parking, artificial turf soccer fields with a winter dome, access plaza along the river, and an amenity building to serve the site. Upland Design assisted the design team through both phase I and phase II planning to create the outdoor river plaza as well as landscape plantings to meet the City of Chicago landscape ordinance. Plantings along Talman include shades trees, ornamental shrubs, perennials and ornamental metal fence which buffer the parking lot. Additional plantings were designed to enhance the building façade and the new river side plaza. Finally, planters were designed for the river side plaza where visitors can find seating and shade. Project Details CLIENT Chicago Fire, Chicago, Illinois PROJECT TYPE Commercial, Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/wolfs-crossing-community-park/
- Portfolio Categories: Grants, Parks, Public Engagement, Sports

Wolf’s Crossing Community ParkWolf’s Crossing Community Park Upland Design along with Engineering Resource Associates and Charles Vincent George Architects collaborated with the Naperville Park District to create a master plan for a new 33 acre community park. We led two public meetings and two focus group meetings to garner input from key stakeholders and the general public. The plan incorporated these comments as well as feedback from online surveys and the Park District. The final plan met the goals and budget and the team began construction documents including the following elements: Community PlaygroundCommunity Picnic ShelterRecirculating Splash PadRestroom Building & Storage BuildingBaseball FieldMulti-Purpose FieldsBasketball CourtsPickleball CourtsTennis CourtsPaved Walking LoopChallenge CourseFitness StationsSled HillWarming ShelterRain GardenOutdoor ClassroomThe design team prepared construction documents for 2019 bidding and the bids came in under. The Park District applied and was awarded a 2019 OSLAD grant for the park development. The park opened in October of 2020. Project Details CLIENT Naperville Park District PROJECT TYPE Parks, Sports & Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-03
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/moline-multi-modal-station/
- Portfolio Categories: Civic, Streetscapes & Transporation

Moline Multi-Modal StationMoline Multi-Modal Station Upland is working with Legat Architects to assist the Moline community with the design of a multi-modal station to serve the Quad Cities. The proposed station consists of a new hotel and commercial space along with exterior public plaza and streetscape elements. Upland created plans and images through concept planning to assist the City determine best solutions. Site furniture, seat walls, lighting, bike racks and landscape plantings are incorporated into the site for ease of pedestrian flow and a feeling of welcome. Project Details CLIENT Moline Multi-Modal Station PROJECT TYPE Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-03
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/memorial-park-renovation/
- Portfolio Categories: Sports

Memorial Park RenovationMemorial Park Renovation As the prime consultant for all phases of work as well as for the Conditional Use Permit that was required for sports lighting changes, Upland Design was pleased to help with the major renovation of this 35year old community park. Upland Design led the design team of landscape architects and engineers to create and implement a master plan, develop construction documents, obtain permits and get the project built. Both the general public along with sports groups gave input during the master planning process. It is a highly used park within the community for both programming and drop-in recreation. It was important to the community to renovate the existing amenities while making the park more accessible. Phasing was necessary not only because of funding availability, but because a portion of the fields were to remain open for play during construction. Phase I construction included comprehensive accessibility improvements whose primary element is a multi-use trail loop around the park. This trail connects all the amenities provided at the park and is highly used as an exercise loop within the neighborhood. Rebuilding of the two tennis courts including fencing, paving and nets took place during phase I. This also included a new sports lighting system to illuminate both courts. The third element during this phase was to resurface the parking lot and provide accessible parking. Phase II construction included renovation of the softball fields with new backstops, dugouts, spectator seating areas, new site furniture. The infield areas were...

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- Published: 2025-10-01
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/blackberry-farm/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Planning, Public Engagement

Blackberry FarmBlackberry Farm Blackberry Farm is a 40 year old living museum and historically themed amusement park in Aurora, Illinois. The site is situated on 64 acres that are well landscaped with an arboretum feel. The Fox Valley Park District engaged Upland Design along with co-lead Jack Rouse Associates to create a master improvement and renovation plan. Public input was sought through open house forums as well as on-site surveys. The final master plan booklet incorporates each facility element and provides a map for identifying the phased implementation. The Fox Valley Park District adopted the plan, and funded implementation of the first phase. Upland Design led the development of construction documents for phase one elements including the new boat dock, boat house shelter, pedal tractor area, special event plaza, and community performance shelter. Located at the edge of Lake Gregory and adjacent to the Blackberry Creek the new event area is in the floodplain and was designed to take flood waters. Other amenities include an event plaza, a performance shelter and renovation of the pedal tractor area. Finally, a creative farm themed adventure playground was created to engage the 5-10 year old visitors to explore and play. Project Details CLIENT Fox Valley Park District PROJECT TYPE Planning Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-10-01
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/baker-woods/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Baker WoodsBaker Woods As part of the 400-acre Baker Woods Forest Preserve, the Kendall County Forest Preserve District acquired a private residence and horse facility. Upland Design’s master plan guided the conversion of the private estate to a public equestrian facility. Plans outlined phasing of site improvements after working with the Owner’s staff to determine priority items. This resulted in an inviting public entrance, new banquet facility and maintenance areas being part of the phase I development. Phase II included a trail system and creek crossing that allowed for access to the entire site prior to its farmland being transitioned into prairie. Following Owner approval of the master plan, Upland Design prepared construction documents and assisted with bidding and construction observation. The implementation of improvements, allows the site to be used as a public equestrian center and a rentable event space. District residents now use the facility for receptions, business meetings and equestrian lessons. Project Details CLIENT Kendall County Forest Preserve District PROJECT TYPE Park Amenities built as part of the Phase I include: Permeable Paving Parking Area 36’ x 48’ Storage Building Restroom Building Accessible Walks Entry Drive improvements Fenced Outdoor Storage Area Seating and Picnic Areas Landscaping The Phase II project elements include: Multiuse/Equestrian Trails 150’ Bridge and Boardwalk spanning wetlands Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-30
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/hoover-forest-preserve-and-fox-river-trail/
- Portfolio Categories: Grants, Parks, Playgrounds, Retail & Commercial

Hoover Forest Preserve & Fox River TrailHoover Forest Preserve and Fox River Trail Hoover Forest Preserve, a former Boy Scout campground, was purchased by the Kendall County Forest Preserve District with the intention of making it an accessible public camp ground, an outdoor education center, and a major link along the regional multi-use Fox River Trail. With over 50’ of grade change from the parking lot to the Fox River overlook, ADA design was a big part of the project. At the same time, protection of archeological sites as well as native species were key components for planning and construction. Upland Design assisted in the master planning process, OSLAD grant presentation materials and implementation of the plan. Project components include: Mile trail along the Fox River Fishing Deck at the Fox River Overlook Deck at Bluff Woodland Classroom Area Four Group Camp Sites - all accessible 20-single camp sites - 2 accessible 70-car Parking Lot with Bio-Swales Site Way- Finding Signage Stormwater Management with Native Plantings Project Details CLIENT Kendall County Forest Preserve District PROJECT TYPE Parks Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-30
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/sunrise-park/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement

Sunrise Beach & Park Waterfront Master PlanSunrise Beach & Park Waterfront Master Plan Sunrise Park, one of Lake Bluff’s most used and loved park was in need of an updated Master Pan to guide the site towards an accessible and sustainable future that respected the history and natural elements of the park. Upland Design guided the Park District through a public input process to create a master site plan that met these goals. The design team worked with the community and the advisory council to create three concepts that were narrowed down into one Master Plan and design guidelines booklet. The Site Program includes: New stone groin and Island Stone Breakwater Additional site amenities Fenced dog beach with dog shower Beach Access stairs and overlook seating New restrooms and shelter Sand Volleyball Nature Playground Swim Platform Lookout Point and Fishing Access Project Details CLIENT Lake Bluff Park District PROJECT TYPE Parks Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-30
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/gateway-signs-and-landscape-enhancement-catalog/
- Portfolio Categories: Civic, Public Engagement, Streetscapes & Transporation

Gateway Signs & Landscape Enhancement CatalogGateway Signs and Landscape Enhancement Catalog To assist the Village of Plainfield develop new gateway and entrance signs, and a landscape enhancement catalog, Upland Design was brought into lead the visioning meetings and build consensus with stakeholders. The process began with defining the Village using words and images to better understand the aesthetic that was desired. Using wireless technology, stakeholders were able to participate during the meetings for fully interactive sessions. After 4 meetings, a final Gateway sign and smaller entry sign were approved by the committee. The signage package along with a landscape enhancements catalog were presented to the board to guide future implementation. The new signs incorporate stone and metal to express local history connection with a progressive look to the future. The complementary bold shapes of the gateway and entry signs create a cohesive look for the various locations around town. Project Details CLIENT Village of Plainfield PROJECT TYPE Planning Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-30
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/sandwich-park-district/
- Portfolio Categories: Civic, Comprehensive Master Planning

Sandwich Park DistrictRecreation Level of Service Review and Park Maps Established in 1966, the Sandwich Park District serves the Sandwich community providing parks and recreation programing. The Board hired Upland Design to assist the District with comprehensive review of parks and facilities with creation of park inventory maps, use area maps, and a bikeway and trail map. Detailed capital budgeting was then created and a focus group meeting held with the Board to identify priority planning objectives to guide the District over the next five years. Upland Design visited each park site to inventory existing conditions, review recent ADA audit elements and create a photo record of park conditions. Park amenity maps were then created for major recreation categories as well as a map and information page for each site. Park radius maps were detailed using GIS systems with a review of the entire community. A capital project list along with detailed cost estimates were finalized. The list accounted for previous Park District projects, ADA projects and projects identified during site analysis. With Board input, the priorities were then set for a five year plan. Project Details CLIENT Sandwich Park District PROJECT TYPE Planning Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-30
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/west-chicago-stairs/
- Portfolio Categories: Civic, Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

West Chicago StairsWest Chicago Stairs Downtown West Chicago is part of the Turner Junction Historic District. When two sets of stairs and their adjacent streetscape needed renovation, the City brought in Upland Design to create designs to improve aesthetics, meet current ADA requirements and fit into the local Historic District. The implemented designs include new paving, stairs, railings, limestone walls, and plant material, all adjacent to privately owned buildings. The larger north stair has a fountain and seating at the Main Street side of the stair. Both the City and the West Chicago Historical Preservation Commission were involved during the design process. Project Details CLIENT City of Chicago PROJECT TYPE Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-30
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/standard-oil-gasoline-station/
- Portfolio Categories: Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

Standard Oil Gasoline StationStandard Oil Gasoline Station This National Historic Register Landmark, the former Standard Oil Gasoline Station, in downtown Plainfield underwent a transformation with the help of Arris Architects and Upland Design. The building is contributing to Downtown Plainfield’s National Register Historic District and is located on the former alignment of both Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway. Upland Design assisted with exterior streetscape and landscape improvements. Amenities included new paver walks, site furniture, fencing, mock gas pumps and landscape plantings. The plantings include roses, grasses, perennials and evergreen shrubs for year round interest. The finished site has become a gem in downtown Plainfield with color, texture and personality. Project Details CLIENT Village of Plainfield PROJECT TYPE Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-30
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/niu-outdoor-recreation-sports-complex/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic, Sports

NIU Outdoor Recreation Sports ComplexOutdoor Recreation Sports Complex Upland Design led the master planning process along with the development of construction documents for the $6. 5 million renovation and expansion of outdoor intramural recreation facilities at the Northern Illinois University Campus in DeKalb, Illinois. The project began as a 19 acre expansion to the existing 20 acres of existing fields. The facility is the central outdoor intramural space for the 24,000 students on campus. To meet the needs of the diverse population, each field area is designed for many sports including lacrosse, soccer, flag football, disc golf, baseball, softball, quidditch and rugby. Lighted artificial turf playing surfaces are at the core of the site so that scheduling can both meet the student’s scheduling needs and serve as a place for summer camps and special events. Irrigated natural grass fields compliment the turf areas. Accessible paved walks were incorporated throughout the site. Additional amenities include pedestrian and sports lighting, field drainage, shaded meeting areas, fencing, site furniture, site access control and a support building with restrooms, meeting space and storage. A number of stone walls and columns were detailed to mimic the designs found throughout campus. Project Details CLIENT Northern Illinois University PROJECT TYPE Sports & Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-30
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/sandholm-woods/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement

Sandholm WoodsSandholm Woods Sandholm Woods is a 2-acre neighborhood park created to add much needed open space in an historic Geneva neighborhood. Upland Design created numerous concepts to explore potential open space uses that encouraged the community to explore nature and play in this small park site. Public open house meetings allowed for community input. Working with the Geneva Park District staff, citizens and the Park Board, Upland assisted in bringing consensus for the new park master plan. Upon entering the park, visitors may choose three paths; they can enter the maze garden, travel north toward the gazebo or south toward the climbing rocks. The walking paths encourage imagination and playfulness with stone textured concrete and a mossy green finish. The walks wind through the park connecting two neighborhood access points, a maze garden and a climbing rock area. Guests explore tree groves including ironwoods, native oaks, serviceberry’s and traverse through clematis covered tunnels. When visitors are ready for a rest, they visit the contemplative sculpture area where they will find stone seat walls and large stone boulders that look as if they were too big to move and had to be built into the walks. As a true nature ground, this park encourages all visitors to explore the site over and over again. Site amenities include: Rain Garden Contemplative Sculpture Garden Natural Climbing Rock Area Shrub Maze Garden Clematis Covered Tunnels Historic Wrought Iron Gates Gazebo Landscape Plantings Parking Area Project Details CLIENT Geneva Park District PROJECT TYPE Park...

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- Published: 2025-09-29
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/ford-heights-baseball/
- Portfolio Categories: Streetscapes & Transporation

Ford Heights BaseballFord Heights Baseball Upland Design assisted the Ford Heights Park District with their first capital project by leading the design team and guiding both staff and meeting multiple grant requirements. So that the new field would support games for a variety of ages, multiple base locations and a moveable mound were included. The field was carefully positioned away from a utility easement with wood poles while still keeping optimum orientation for the players. Contributors of grants, reduced fees, leadership and labor include: • The Baseball Tomorrow Fund • Cubs Charities through its Diamond Project grants program • Pitcher Jason Hammel donated prize money from a Hefty charity contest • McHugh Construction • RE Hamilton Consulting Engineers • Cook County Sheriff staff and S. W. A. P. program • US Army Reserve • Ford Heights Park District board members • Upland Design Ltd Project Details CLIENT Ford Heights Park District PROJECT TYPE Sports & Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-29
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/engstrom-park-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement

Engstrom Park PlaygroundEngstrom Park Playground Upland Design led the master planning and site redevelopment of this community park site adjacent to Batavia High School. Neighbors were invited to contribute ideas and the Park District staff helped create priorities and phasing during the public input process. The playground renovation created a meeting space for fun with new play equipment and poured in place surfacing throughout. Play pieces include a large play structure with net climbers, slides, pods, and loops of active play on the main structure. A large swing area includes accessible swings, belt swings and bucket seats for toddlers. A large net climber was saved in place and linked together with the new playground within one big rubber surfacing play area. The entry plaza hosts four hopscotch games that form the logo of the Park District in four bright colors. Project Details CLIENT Batavia Park District PROJECT TYPE Playground Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-29
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/adelmann-park-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Adelmann Park PlaygroundAdelmann Park Playground Upland Design led the master planning and site development of this community park site in Lockport, IL. The Park District staff helped create priorities and phasing during the public input process. The playground created a meeting space for fun with new play equipment. Play pieces include a large play structure, slides, pods, and loops of active play on the main structure. A large swing area includes accessible swings, belt swings and bucket seats for toddlers. The new playground was installed with a rubber surfacing play area. Project Details CLIENT Lockport Park District PROJECT TYPE Playground Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-25
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/wheeling-town-center/
- Portfolio Categories: Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

Wheeling Town CenterWheeling Town Center As lead landscape architect on the multi-disciplinary team, Upland Design leads the creation of plans and presentations for the outdoor spaces at this multi-use development in the core of the municipal district. Located at the south side of West Dundee Road, it will serve as a new town center for Wheeling. Design work includes site and streetscape planning for commercial, restaurants and residential spaces. A key element of the plan is the Village Green, a plaza and green space created to serve as a meeting space for the town. Amenities include landscape plantings, a sculptural focal point, site furniture, lighting, street trees and paving. In addition to the public spaces, Upland Design is creating private recreation spaces for the new multi-story residential building. Facilities include an outdoor pool, fireplace, plaza seating, shade structures, bocce ball, a mini-golf green and meeting areas. Project Details CLIENT Village of Plainfield PROJECT TYPE Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-17
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/leland-elementary-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic, Playgrounds

Leland Elementary PlaygroundLeland Elementary School Playground As part of the Spaces to Grow program, Leland Elementary site and playground was renovated and enhanced to improve storm water drainage and enhance the play environment. Upland Design worked as part of a team for the Chicago Public Schools to renovate the outdoor spaces and playground. Funded in part by the City of Chicago Department of Water Management and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, the site enhancements improve the management of rainfall and runoff with green storm water infrastructure. At the same time, the outdoor school yard is enriched with outdoor garden space, seating, raised garden beds, native plantings and new recreational components. Elements include outdoor classroom and meeting spaces, playground pavement games, basketball areas, play equipment, running track, and a large hill area of rubber surfacing. Raised planters were incorporated to add a hands on element to the curriculum. The project won a Friends of the Chicago River Silver Ribbon. Project Details CLIENT Client Company Name PROJECT TYPE Residential Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-17
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/morril-elementary-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Academic

Morril Elementary PlaygroundMorril Elementary School Playground Upland Design worked as part of a team for the Chicago Public Schools to renovate the outdoor spaces and playgrounds at Morrill Elementary Spaces to Grow project. Funded in part by the City of Chicago Department of Water Management and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, the site enhancements improve the management of rainfall and runoff with green storm water infrastructure. At the same time, the outdoor school yards were enriched with outdoor garden space, seating, permeable paving, bio-swales, native plantings and new recreational components. Elements include outdoor classroom and meeting spaces, playground pavement games, basketball areas, fitness equipment, running track, multipurpose artificial turf area, play equipment and rubber surfacing. Raised planters were incorporated to add a hands on element to the curriculum. Additionally, accessibility improvements were included in the amenities layout. Project Details The project won a Friends of the Chicago River Silver Ribbon and an ACEC Special Achievement Award. CLIENT Chicago Public School District PROJECT TYPE Education Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-15
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/wheeler-park-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Wheeler Park PlaygroundWheeler Park Playground Wheeler Park is a large community park within the Geneva Park District system. Using the nine key elements of Dynamic Play, Upland Design created a new playground with a space exploration theme. The tallest element, a spaceship, is three floors of fun. The fun continues with planets and asteroids coming out of the engineered wood fiber where the space ship landed. There is a learning component as visitors are invited to find our solar system’s planets scattered in the playground. Accessibility is a key component for this project with a ramp onto the space ship and lots of ground level fun elements for interactive play. Seating and shade can be found throughout the play area giving parents and kids places to hang out, rest and watch the fun. Project Details CLIENT Geneva Park District PROJECT TYPE Playground Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-15
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/wynwood-park-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds, Sports

Wynwood Park PlaygroundWynwood Park Playground Working closely with Winfield staff, Upland Design prepared a master plan for Wynwood Park. As the home of multiple baseball diamonds this site receives visitors from a wide area for tournaments as well as from the neighborhood. To meet community needs, the parking lot, sport courts and playground were transformed with this project The park renovation included a new playground with a challenging new net climber that compliments swings, slides and climbers. The playground surface includes both fiber surfacing and rubber surfacing. To add more activities for visitors and day camp users, a fun splash pad area with elements for toddlers and older kids was incorporated. The new system includes an electronic control system with timer and new water meter. Splash pad water drains to the nearby rain garden area. Project Details CLIENT Winfield Park District PROJECT TYPE Playground & Parks Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-14
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/fairview-park-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Fairview Park PlaygroundFairview Park Playground Fairview Park is a neighborhood park that serves a large multi-family population area in St. Charles, Illinois. Despite a large user group there were previously just a few built elements. To activate the park site, new recreational amenities were explored and shared with the public through an open house format. Residents shared an overwhelming enthusiasm for a new playground so that was the first feature built. This followed with a second phase play area expansion. The equipment layout is focused on creating loops of play from one piece to another and over a rubber play mound. Overhead, custom flowers dance in the trees to create a magical feel to the park. Multiple types of swings are included to give kids of all abilities the chance for movement through the air. Seating, shade and a drinking fountain are nearby to give caregivers comfortable spaces to rest. A partially fenced lawn panel provides space for more play and buffers the child area from the street. Project Details CLIENT St. Charles Park District PROJECT TYPE Playground Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-12
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/columbus-manor-park/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement, Sports

Columbus Manor ParkColumbus Manor Park Columbus Manor was completely renovated over a two year period with two phased projects. The first phase included renovation of pathways, a new playground, musical play space and shelter. The second phase includes renovation of the ballfield dugouts, drinking fountains, a new splash pad, fitness area, sensory garden and basketball court. The Park District was awarded an IAPD Gametime grant in 2017 for development of a highly inclusive playground. Upland Design worked closely with the Park District as well as Game Time representatives to refine the play equipment for just the right elements. The new playground includes a ramped entry with rubber surface mounding as well as poured in place rubber surfacing throughout. Play equipment was designed to expand the play for all users including spinning, sliding, swinging, climbing, sound, texture, and quiet spots to step away from the play. Project Details CLIENT Oak Lawn Park District PROJECT TYPE Parks, Playgrounds, Sports & Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-10
- Modified: 2025-11-04
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/harbert-road/
- Portfolio Categories: Streetscapes & Transporation

Harbert RoadCentennial Park: An Oasis in a Park Desert Creating a Greenbelt to Gather, Connect, and Belong Chikaming Township envisioned a welcoming and connected streetscape along Harbert Road, a section along the Red Arrow Highway in Berrien County, Michigan. The vision was to create a greenbelt where local history, landscape plantings, and pocket parks would merge for the community to gather, connect, and below. Partnering with The Antero Group, Upland Design assisted in moving the Township’s vision from early concepts through to a complete master plan. The design process blended technical planning with community input. Upland developed streetscape layouts, pocket park concepts, and trailhead connections while shaping aesthetic boards that explored furniture, lighting, paving, and planting palettes. Public meetings and surveys provided valuable feedback, ensuring the final design reflected both the Township's goals and residents' priorities. By balancing function with beauty, the plan sets the stage for a streetscape that honors Harbert’s character, improves pedestrian safety, and fosters a stronger sense of place. Project Details CLIENT Chikaming Township PROJECT TYPE Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery Loading the next set of gallery items... Load More

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- Published: 2025-09-10
- Modified: 2025-11-04
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/union-pier/
- Portfolio Categories: Streetscapes & Transporation

Union PierCentennial Park: An Oasis in a Park Desert Chikaming Township, New Buffalo Township, and Berrien County partnered to reimagine the intersection of Red Arrow Highway and Union Pier Road as a welcoming gateway and gathering spot for the community. With strong public support from the very first meeting, the project set out to create a more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly area, along with a visually cohesive destination. As the landscape architect consultant for the team led by The Antero Group, Upland Design provided public engagement and streetscape design services. The role centered on shaping the pedestrian realm with thoughtful site planning, paving, furniture standards, landscaping, and lighting that celebrate Union Pier’s coastal character while supporting safe and functional circulation. The design process began with a thorough site analysis and base mapping, followed by the development of multiple aesthetic and furniture concepts. These boards provided options for paving materials, planting palettes, lighting, and furnishings. The options were shared with stakeholders and the public for review. Community surveys and open house meetings helped refine the vision in a unified direction. Public input guided the designs until just the right mix was found. Upland Design worked closely with Antero Group to finalize a Streetscape Master Plan that balanced vehicular needs with vibrant pedestrian areas. Color renderings, furniture, lighting standards, and proposed paving patterns established a clear framework for implementation. Key Improvements include: Defined pedestrian areas with safe, separated walkways. Introduction of specialty paving and site furniture that reflects Union Pier’s character. Landscape and...

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- Published: 2025-09-10
- Modified: 2025-11-05
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/village-of-peotone/
- Portfolio Categories: Streetscapes & Transporation

Village of PeotoneCentennial Park: An Oasis in a Park Desert How One Small Village Landed $2. 5 Million to Reimagine Its Downtown When the Village of Peotone dreamed of a thriving, walkable downtown that would attract visitors and energize its economy, they knew they needed more than just ideas. The Village needed funding, expertise, and a plan that would resonate with the community. Upland Design jumped at the chance to assist this rural town in Will County. Working with local leaders, the Upland team created a captivating master plan and then identified, wrote and won a $2. 5 million dollar grant through the DCEO Rebuild Illinois Main Street to bring this vision to life. The Village of Peotone faced a familiar challenge in many small towns: a once-bustling downtown corridor that no longer reflected the vitality or potential of the community. Outdated infrastructure, limited pedestrian access, lack of aesthetic cohesion, and underutilized public spaces hindered economic development. The Village and Upland got to work creating meaningful plans that established a comprehensive vision to implement positive change. The project encompassed multiple phases: thorough site analysis stakeholder and community engagement The creation of three distinct design concepts These concepts featured unique lighting, paving materials, gateway and street signage, site furniture, pedestrian access and seating, high-quality parkway treatments, and designated festival areas. A community Zoom webinar was conducted to gather public input, ensuring the designs reflected the community's vision. A final master plan for the downtown was completed and updated. Upland Design then...

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- Published: 2025-09-05
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/montrose-multi-use-artificial-turf-field/
- Portfolio Categories: Sports

Montrose Multi-Use Artificial Turf FieldMontrose Multi-Use Artificial Turf Field Set along Lake Michigan, Montrose Field was one of Chicago's first artificial turf fields. Chicago Park District brought Upland Design in to lead the consultant team in renovation of this popular multi-use field. The existing system was reviewed and the stone base, drainage and curb were determined to be viable for reuse. The existing infill mix of rubber and sand and artificial turf carpet were completely removed. With minor restoration to the stone base and curb, new carpet and infill were brought in along with new multi-use goals and bleachers. New field markings include soccer, football and lacrosse to encourage high use of the field for the community. New accessible walks were added to connect seating areas with the existing parking and lakefront bike trail. Project Details CLIENT Chicago Park District PROJECT TYPE Sports and Recreation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/orland-park-nature-center/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Orland Park Nature CenterOrland Park Nature Center Upland Design brought the Village of Orland Park’s master plan to life by creating an outdoor nature center for the community from an old commercial site. The two acre site was developed to utilize local materials and sustainable detailing like permeable pavers, and to limit the impact to adjacent wetlands while bringing users closer to nature. The presents a green theme throughout with permeable paving parking and central plaza, an amphitheater and outdoor classroom space, and bird watching station. Custom, leaf pattern structures offer shade at the picnic area and classroom. Throughout construction document creation, special attention was paid to ensure the right materials were used to create a unique experience. Trails spiral away from the plaza to bring visitors to a natural overlook that takes advantage of views of the neighboring preserves. Sensory native garden areas and boardwalks bring visitors closer to the flora and fauna of the site. The surrounding land is planted with native plants including savannah shade trees, prairies grasses and native wetland plants to rehabilitate the site and connect it with neighboring protected lands. The nature center is an oasis of habitats for both animals, birds, insects and humans alike. Project Details CLIENT Village of Orland Park PROJECT TYPE Park Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-09-04
- Modified: 2025-10-20
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/signage-and-landscape-enhancements-at-corporate-west-drive/
- Portfolio Categories: Retail & Commercial, Streetscapes & Transporation

Signage and Landscape Enhancements at Corporate West DriveSignage and Landscape Enhancements at Corporate West Drive Upland Design created enhancement plans to improve wayfinding and overall outdoor appearance at the conglomerate of buildings along Corporate West Drive in Lisle, Illinois. The project focused on the entry, drives and drive turnaround. Site improvements include new entry signs at Warrenville Road into the complex and matching wayfinding signs along Corporate Drive to assist visitors with building location. The signs include limestone base walls with seasonal plantings as well as stone upright signs. Landscape enhancements include flowering shrubs, perennials, grasses and ornamental trees. Project Details CLIENT Corporate West, Lisle, Illinois PROJECT TYPE Commercial, Streetscape & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-08-30
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/moline-transportation-plan-update/
- Portfolio Categories: Civic, Public Engagement, Streetscapes & Transporation

Moline Transportation Plan UpdateMoline Transportation Plan Update Upland Design worked as part of the SBC team to update the City of Moline Transportation Plan. Focus was on the Floreciente Neighborhood, the downtown core and connections to the Mississippi River. Upland created plans and images to assist with the public open house and support the plan updates. Key pieces include streetscape improvements, parking lot aesthetics, pedestrian and bicycle connections to public spaces and ideas for new public spaces along the Mississippi River. Project Details CLIENT City of Moline PROJECT TYPE Planning Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-08-17
- Modified: 2025-10-21
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/garnsey-park-playground/
- Portfolio Categories: Parks, Playgrounds

Garnsey Park PlaygroundGarnsey Park Playground Garnsey Park is both a neighborhood park and a community baseball park site that serves the larger community. The Joliet Park District’s approved referendum allowed for a renovation of the park along with addition of new recreational amenities. A new shelter with electric service near the play area along with new accessible paved paths that link amenities together were added to the park. Fitness stations were added in two groupings to encourage visitors to walk the loop and use the equipment. The four tennis courts were reduced in order to make room for other activities. The two remaining full size tennis courts were completely renovated with new pavement, color coat, nets and fence. Automobile parking along the street was reconstructed. The project design included removal of many ash trees and planting of new tress. The existing playground was replaced with new equipment and poured in place rubber surfacing. The playful surface pattern includes lily pads, salamanders, leaves along with “water” and “land” areas to add another dimension of fun. Project Details CLIENT Joliet Park District PROJECT TYPE Playground Project Gallery

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- Published: 2025-01-05
- Modified: 2025-10-27
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/illinois-department-of-transportation-various-projects/
- Portfolio Categories: Streetscapes & Transporation

Various IDOT ProjectsIllinois Department of Transportation, Various Projects As the landscape architectural sub-consultant to Hey and Associates, Inc. , Upland Design is assisted with IDOT District One Bureau of Maintenance in right of way landscape observation, maintenance and plantings. From screen wall plantings, to removal of invasive species, Upland worked with communities, local agencies, IDOT staff and other consultants to get the best results. Upland Design provides identification of natural areas and inventory mapping along interstate corridors as well as primary routes. Data is then added to GIS maps for consultant and IDOT use. The geo-database is used to create vegetation maintenance maps throughout the district. This work leads directly to the removal of invasive species with integrated vegetation management plans and schedules to aid in the eradication of these species. Upland Design’s scheduling, observation and monitoring of herbicidal applications and mowing is a key component to this process. This work also includes the identification of hazardous trees for removal, trimming and saving quality trees. Reports and plans were created to assist the District in creating higher quality right of way natural areas. Project Details CLIENT Hey and Associates as Prime to IDOT PROJECT TYPE Streetscapes & Transportation Project Gallery

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- Published: 2021-03-04
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/peck-farm-north/
- Portfolio Categories: Grants, Parks, Playgrounds, Public Engagement

Peck Farm NorthPeck Farm North Geneva Park District planned the expansion of Peck Farm to the north for over twenty years with a desire to create trail connections and unique stopping points that tie the spaces to the land with both history and lore. The design was implemented with the guidance of Upland Design. Custom seating and signage was designed with granite cobbles in gabion styled outdoor furniture. The designs represent the historic property and township markings used across Kane County by homesteaders. A stopping point along the paths includes a sun dial that uses each visitor as the center point to find the time. Custom numbers in granite form the arc of solstice set with pavers. Another location at a hill top creates a look out for sunrise viewing at the solstice. The angle is set perfectly to frame the sunrise through a corten steel cut art piece that nods to the Park District logo. Basalt columns and headstone welcome visitors to the hill top. The expansion opened in fall of 2020. Project Details CLIENT Geneva Park District PROJECT TYPE Parks, Playgrounds Project Gallery

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- Published: 2018-01-05
- Modified: 2025-10-17
- URL: https://uplanddesign.com/portfolio-items/entry-plaza-and-landscape-enhancements/
- Portfolio Categories: Civic, Streetscapes & Transporation

River Forest Public Library Entry Plaza & Landscape EnhancementsEntry Plaza and Landscape Enhancements River Forest Public Library wanted to enhance the library by creating an outdoor entry plaza while enhancing the landscape. Additional they wanted to incorporate programmable spaces that are flexible for individuals, small groups, and special events. The new entry plaza created by Upland Design expands the library experiences to the outdoors with sensory plantings and high quality materials. Lawn is utilized within the central area of the site for flexible open space and increases visibility to usable spaces. Both planting and permeable paving materials are incorporated to model sustainability practices. Beyond adding to the sensory experience to the site, the specified native plantings are low maintenance, require minimal chemical fertilizers and water once established. The plants also promote habitat bio-diversity. Permeable pavers used in the design reduce the water’s exposure to the sun and heat and help protect the quality of water, reduce the amount of storm water runoff entering our natural waterways, and promote the infiltration of rainwater that helps to recharge groundwater. Finally, the implementation of plan was well coordinated to allow the Library to remain open throughout construction. Project Details CLIENT River Forest Public Library, River Forest, Illinois PROJECT TYPE Civic Streetscapes & Transportation Project Gallery

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