Sustainable Landscape Design Business: Ive Haugeland’s Journey from Norway to California
Running a sustainable landscape design business takes more than creativity. It requires courage, resilience, and the ability to stay grounded in your values. On this episode of What It Takes, we sit down with Ive Haugeland, the founder and principal of Shades of Green Landscape Architecture, to explore what it really takes to build a business rooted in sustainability and design excellence.
Her story is one of transformation—geographically, creatively, and professionally. If you’ve ever wondered how someone takes a personal vision and turns it into a thriving business, this episode is for you.
🌿 From Environmental Design to Entrepreneurial Leap
Ive began her design career in Norway, where she worked on projects that required sensitive, environmentally responsible solutions. These experiences gave her a strong foundation in understanding the natural world and how to design within it. As a result, her design philosophy was deeply influenced by nature and Scandinavian simplicity.
However, her journey didn’t stop there. After relocating to California in 2000, she was inspired to launch her own firm. In 2004, Shades of Green Landscape Architecture was born.
🗣️ “I didn’t start a business because I wanted to run a business. I started it because I wanted to create something meaningful.”
💼 Building a Sustainable Landscape Design Business with Purpose
Creating a sustainable landscape design business isn’t just about good design—it’s about making strategic decisions that align with your values. For Ive, that meant ensuring sustainability wasn’t a buzzword, but a core principle.
While many firms focus on trends, Shades of Green focuses on long-term impact. In addition, the firm blends aesthetics with responsibility by using sustainable materials and natural integration.
🗣️ “Sustainability isn’t a feature—it’s a mindset. Every project we take on considers how we can work with nature, not against it.”
💡 Lessons in Leadership, Design, and Growth
Transitioning from designer to business owner presented challenges. Although Ive was confident in her creative work, running a company required her to develop new skills in leadership and management.
Over the years, she learned how to delegate, manage a team, and make decisions that allowed her firm to grow without losing its core identity. Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of evolving continuously while staying rooted in your original purpose.
🗣️ “The hardest part of running a business isn’t finding work—it’s learning how to trust yourself as a leader.”
🔑 What It Takes to Succeed in Sustainable Landscape Architecture
At What It Takes, we always ask our guests the same closing question:
What does it take to be a successful business owner?
Ive’s answer highlights the importance of flexibility and long-term vision.
🗣️ “It takes vision, patience, and the ability to adapt. Business isn’t just about talent—it’s about learning and evolving every step of the way.”
🔗 Related Episodes You Might Like
📣 Connect with Ive Haugeland & Shades of Green
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Website: shadesofgreenla.com
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Instagram: @shadesofgreenla
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LinkedIn: Shades of Green on LinkedIn
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
Are you ready to be inspired by a leader who built a sustainable landscape design business from the ground up?
👉 Listen to “Sustainable Landscape Design Business: Ive Haugeland’s Journey” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.]
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