Our mission is not just about designing spaces – it is about making a difference for the people that use them.
We approach each design as a process, beginning with listening and building a relationship based on respect
and trust, engaging our clients in an in-depth discussion to understand their vision, challenges, and budgetary considerations.
We study the site and the surroundings to grasp natural systems, existing patterns of use and cultural influences.
By integrating the knowledge of our client's vision and the comprehensive understanding of the site, we strive
to develop solutions that fit the way people live, work, and play.
The final result engages people in the environment, creating a sense of place which, in turn, contributes to a sustainable and economically thriving place. We believe in being an active participant in our communities and
are committed to active healthy living, continually exploring and creating better places.
All of us at CG|LS, from our earliest memories as children, have loved the places we’ve inhabited and have worked each day to continually make them better.
Chris Gent, PLA, ASLA, is principal of Landscape Architectural Office, an award-winning practice focusing on designing sustainable, community driven public spaces and residential landscapes for developers, park districts, municipalities and homeowners.
For over 20 years, Chris worked in the public sphere designing landscapes, managing projects and providing consulting services for the Chicago Park District, the Department of Cultural Affairs or other City of Chicago agencies. In 2012 he left public service to open his own office in order to focus more directly on the creation of sustainable landscapes and open, community-driven processes for public spaces.
A registered landscape architect, Chris received his Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from the University of Idaho. An active participant in his community, he is the immediate past president of the Illinois chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects, he was co-chairman of the City of Chicago’s Streetscape Committee for the past 4 years.