TEAM VIRIDIAN
BACKGROUND
Founded by Jill Kelleher in 2018, Viridian Studios was built on a passion for creating outdoor environments that deliver measurable ROI. Committed to high-quality, affordable landscape architecture, Jill established the firm with a focus on client satisfaction and thoughtful design. In late 2024, longtime industry colleague Kristy LaRose joined Viridian to drive business expansion, spearhead branding and recruit top talent. Soon after, Jennifer Ilkin partnered with Viridian, bringing exceptional design expertise, and broadening the firm’s reach across new markets and project types.
“Since day one, our goal has been clear—to design landscapes that inspire, connect, and endure. Through collaboration and a deep understanding of place, we strive to exceed expectations with a responsive partnership.”
— Jill Kelleher | Founding Principal
With these three women leading the firm, Viridian is entering an exciting new chapter. A brand refresh in early 2025 will better showcase the firm’s expanded depth, breadth, and vision for the future. We are excited about this growth phase and welcome the opportunity to partner with our clients to elevate the outdoor experience for developments of all types, uses and sizes.
LEADERSHIP
JILL KELLEHER, PLA, LEED AP
Founding Principal/CEO
With three decades of experience in landscape design, Jill leads the firm with a visionary approach and a deep commitment to client service. As CEO, she oversees financial strategy, guides the firm’s long-term vision, and ensures exceptional responsiveness is given to all project partners. She remains actively involved in every project, whether at the executive level or through hands-on project management, bringing expertise, innovation, and a meticulous attention to detail to every phase of design and execution.
JENNIFER ILKIN, PLA, LEED AP
Design Principal/COO
With over 25 years of experience in landscape design, Jen is a driving force behind the firm’s creative and technical excellence. As Design Principal and COO, she oversees production operations, leads design initiatives, and establishes the firm’s standards and best practices. Her deep knowledge and design talent are unmatched, ensuring every project reflects innovation, precision, and a commitment to excellence. Her leadership shapes the firm’s overall design vision, setting the bar for quality and creativity in every aspect of our work.
KRISTY LAROSE
Managing Principal/CMO
With a strong background in sales, marketing, and business development, Kristy brings a well-rounded perspective shaped by her work with multiple types of small businesses throughout her career. She leads the firm’s marketing and BD efforts, driving growth and strategic partnerships. She manages HR strategy, recruitment, and onboarding of staff, ensuring the firm attracts and retains top talent. In addition, Kristy manages administrative functions and staff, ensuring seamless operations that support the firm’s continued success.
ACHIEVE MORE
At Viridian Studios, we believe that partnerships are the cornerstone of success. By collaborating with complementary service providers, we offer our clients a comprehensive and seamless experience.
Together, we create extraordinary project deliverables, proving that we are stronger when we work as one.
From renderings and site civil engineering to irrigation, lighting design, and tree management, we have built a full-service team that ensures every aspect of our projects is executed with precision and care.
Responsive Collaboration
We prioritize clear communication, adaptability, & prompt responses.
Cross-Disciplinary Engagement
Working with trusted partners, we bring fresh perspectives & holistic solutions.
Client-Centered Solutions
Our partnerships are rooted in a shared commitment to delivering thoughtful, customized, client-focused designs.
Environmental Stewardship
Partnerships help us integrate sustainable practices, enhancing environmental performance and long-term project resilience.
OUR PARTNERS
NATHAN LEDBETTER
Better Together Collaborative
Viridian Studios’ extended staff for landscape design, production, and 3D visualization.
- Landscape Design support to Viridian since opening our doors!
- Professional Drone Pilot – Part 107 Certified
- 20+ Years Experience
- 3D Renderings, Land Planning, Site Planning/Maps, Design Support
AMY ROGERS
Viridian Studios
Our resource for all things accounting, bookkeeping and office management.
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Our talented Director of Office Operations, keeping us organized and on track daily!
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Oversee bookkeeping, payroll, accounting, accounts payable, receivables and invoicing.
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Support executive team, handling office operations.
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Georgia Notary Public with 20+ years’ experience in office administration.
NATOSHA LEDBETTER
Better Together Collaborative
Our extended staff for landscape design, production, 3-D visualization.
- Landscape Design support to Viridian since opening our doors!
- 20+ Years Experience
- Design and production support
CHRIS HUGHES, RCA
Brookwood Tree Consulting
Our go to arborist for assistance with tree management plans.
- International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) – Certified Arborist
- American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) – Registered Consulting Arborist
- 20+ years providing tree assessments, inventories, and management plans.
CHRISTIE BRYANT
Speaking for the Trees
Our trusted arborist partner for tree assessments, inventories, and care plans.
- International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) – Certified Arborist
- Georgia Urban AG Council – Georgia Certified Landscape Professional
- 15+ years providing tree risk assessments, inventories, treatments & care plans
NATE HINES
Hines Inc.
Our go to irrigation water engineering and management partner.
- Cost estimates, feasibility studies and infrastructure design
- Full-service water focused engineering firm
- 25+ years of water planning, design development, water management services
COME GROW WITH US
At Viridian Studios, you’ll have the opportunity to be part of a dynamic, growing firm that values creativity, connection, and excellence. We offer a remote, but collaborative, work environment where your ideas and leadership can shape the future of the firm and the spaces we design.