Growing up in Brooklyn, I was always fascinated by the layers of history embedded in the city’s streets. Old brick buildings, repurposed warehouses, and abandoned lots all told stories of the past. Over time, I realized that these forgotten materials held potential—not just as remnants of history but as key elements in sustainable design. That realization has shaped my approach to landscape architecture, where using reclaimed and recycled materials isn’t just an aesthetic choice but a commitment to sustainability.

Why Reclaimed and Recycled Materials Matter

As cities expand, so does the environmental impact of construction and development. The extraction of raw materials, transportation, and waste disposal all contribute to carbon emissions, resource depletion, and pollution. By incorporating reclaimed and recycled materials into landscape architecture, we can significantly reduce waste, lower costs, and create spaces that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.

Reusing materials also adds character to a project. A salvaged wood bench, bricks from an old factory, or repurposed steel can tell a story while seamlessly blending with natural elements. Instead of demolishing and discarding, we can breathe new life into materials that might otherwise end up in a landfill.

Types of Reclaimed and Recycled Materials

There’s a vast array of materials that can be repurposed for landscape architecture, many of which I’ve incorporated into my own projects.

• Reclaimed Wood: Whether sourced from old barns, deconstructed buildings, or shipping pallets, reclaimed wood is a versatile and durable material for decking, seating, and fencing.
• Recycled Concrete and Brick: Instead of sending demolished concrete and bricks to a landfill, these materials can be crushed and reused for pathways, retaining walls, and drainage systems.
• Metal and Steel: Salvaged steel beams, railings, and old machinery parts can be transformed into artistic features, trellises, or structural elements in urban green spaces.
• Reused Stone: Natural stone is a nonrenewable resource, but it can be repurposed from old buildings, quarries, or deconstructed landscapes to create beautiful garden paths and retaining walls.
• Upcycled Plastic: Recycled plastic is increasingly being used in outdoor furniture, composite decking, and even permeable pavement solutions that reduce runoff and promote sustainability.

Projects That Showcase Reclaimed Materials

One of my proudest projects was designing a community park in Brooklyn using nearly 80% reclaimed materials. We sourced bricks from an old industrial site, turning them into walkways and seating areas. Reclaimed wood from shipping crates became picnic tables and pergolas. Even the fencing was made from repurposed metal sourced from a local scrapyard. The result? A park that not only conserved resources but also had a unique, lived-in charm that new materials simply can’t replicate.

Another example is a rooftop garden we designed for an urban residential complex. Instead of using new lumber for planters and decking, we worked with reclaimed wood from an old pier. This not only added a rustic appeal but also drastically cut down on project costs and material waste. Paired with native plants and rainwater collection systems, this project became a model for sustainable urban landscapes.

Overcoming Challenges in Using Reclaimed Materials

Despite its benefits, working with reclaimed materials comes with challenges. Sourcing consistent, high-quality materials can be time-consuming, and repurposing them often requires additional processing, such as refinishing wood or cutting stone to fit new designs. However, these challenges can be addressed with thoughtful planning and collaboration with salvage yards, demolition sites, and local suppliers.

Another hurdle is the perception that reclaimed materials are less durable or of lower quality. The truth is that many reclaimed materials—especially old-growth wood and well-crafted bricks—are often more durable than their modern counterparts. Proper treatment, sealing, and reinforcement ensure that these materials can withstand the elements just as well, if not better, than new materials.

The Future of Reclaimed Materials in Landscape Architecture

As sustainability becomes a priority in urban planning, the use of reclaimed and recycled materials is gaining momentum. Cities are beginning to implement policies that encourage adaptive reuse in public projects, and innovative designers are finding creative ways to integrate these materials into green spaces.

There’s also a growing market for engineered recycled materials, such as composite wood made from reclaimed sawdust or concrete infused with recycled glass. These innovations make it easier than ever to incorporate sustainability into landscape architecture without compromising on aesthetics or functionality.

A Personal Commitment to Sustainability

For me, using reclaimed and recycled materials isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about creating spaces that have soul. When we design with repurposed materials, we honor the past while building a more sustainable future. Whether it’s a park, a rooftop garden, or a simple bench along a greenway, every project is an opportunity to rethink how we use resources and redefine what beauty means in the urban landscape.

Imagine a future where no material goes to waste, where every piece of wood, stone, and metal finds new life in our cities. That’s the vision I work toward every day, and I hope to inspire others to do the same. Because sustainability isn’t just about saving the environment—it’s about creating spaces that tell stories, connect people, and stand the test of time.