Dennis Pappas

I’m Dennis Pappas, a landscape architect with over two decades of experience designing sustainable, community-focused urban spaces. Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, I developed a love for the natural world amidst the city’s concrete and steel. Trips to parks and nature reserves upstate shaped my belief that cities thrive when green spaces are prioritized. Today, I dedicate my career to creating spaces that improve quality of life, support biodiversity, and build resilience against climate change.

After earning my Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture from Cornell University, I pursued a Master’s in Environmental Design from Columbia University. My education gave me a foundation in sustainable design, ecology, and urban planning. I’ve applied those principles throughout my career, leading innovative projects such as the Brooklyn Green Corridor and New York’s first carbon-neutral rooftop garden. These projects aren’t just about beautifying urban areas—they’re about creating spaces that serve people and the planet.

As a Senior Landscape Architect at GreenScape NYC, I focus on integrating sustainability into every aspect of design. Whether it’s rethinking stormwater management or incorporating native plants into urban landscapes, I strive to make every project impactful and lasting. My work has been recognized with honors like the Green City Innovator Award from the Urban Green Council and the Environmental Excellence Award from the New York State Association of Conservation Districts.

I’m passionate about collaboration and community engagement. I believe that great design begins with understanding the people who will use the space. Some of my most rewarding experiences come from seeing residents gather in a new park or witnessing how a green corridor transforms a neighborhood. My guiding philosophy is simple: “Every green space is a chance to breathe new life into the city.”

I’m also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of landscape architects. The challenges cities face—from climate change to rapid urbanization—require creative, sustainable solutions, and I believe young professionals have a critical role to play. My mission is to leave a positive impact on every space I design and inspire others to do the same.