NELO creates contemporary landscapes that are distinctive to the Upper Midwest.
We love projects that merge thoughtful architecture with natural landscapes, ranging from immersive urban gardens and expansive prairies to serene waterfront retreats.
Regional Inspiration
We are inspired by the big woods, buzzing meadows, great lakes, and dramatic seasonality of the northern region.
Climate, topography, material, vegetation, and architecture inform our approach, guiding decisions that are responsive to their surroundings.
Materiality and Permanence
We are drawn to materials that reflect the character of the region and improve with time. Granite and Basalt from Northern MN, Limestone from WI, weathering steel, and regionally sourced timber provide a foundation for landscapes.
We value regionally sourced and reclaimed materials, considered details, and the relationship between texture, color, and form. Their ability to withstand seasonal extremes, weather naturally, and develop character over time is central to our approach.
Designed for the Seasons
The Upper Midwest presents both challenges and opportunities. Deep winters, summer heat and dramatic seasonal transitions demand thoughtful, resilient design.
We embrace these conditions, selecting plants and materials for their adaptability, longevity, and seasonal character. Native and regionally appropriate vegetation, durable construction, and an understanding of natural systems inform landscapes that evolve with their surroundings.
A Sense of Place
Regionally grounded. Materially honest. Designed for the northern landscape.
Our goal is to create contemporary landscapes that feel inherently connected to their setting. Through a thoughtful balance of architecture, material, and ecology, we seek to create places that are grounded, enduring, and enriched by the passage of time.