Design has the power to shape how people experience the world around them. At LBA Landscape Architecture, that belief forms the foundation of every project. With more than four decades of experience, the firm has built a reputation for creating landscapes that not only enhance physical environments but also strengthen communities, restore ecological systems, and foster meaningful human connections.

Founded over 40 years ago by Jack LaQuatra and Frederick R. Bonci, the firm was established with a clear purpose: to advance the profession of landscape architecture while delivering high-quality, context-driven design solutions. From its base in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, LBA has expanded its influence across regional, national, and international projects, maintaining a consistent commitment to thoughtful, collaborative, and sustainable design.  LBA Landscape Architecture operates at the intersection of landscape architecture, urban design, and land planning. The firm approaches each project with a deep respect for the site’s history, culture, and ecological systems. Rather than imposing generic solutions, LBA emphasizes contextual design—crafting environments that reflect the identity and character of each location. This philosophy ensures that every project feels authentic, purposeful, and enduring.

One of the defining characteristics of LBA’s work is its commitment to integrating natural systems into the built environment. The firm prioritizes ecological restoration and sustainability, ensuring that landscapes not only serve human needs but also support biodiversity and environmental resilience. This approach is evident in projects such as the Frick Environmental Center in Pittsburgh, a Living Building-certified project that exemplifies the seamless integration of architecture and ecology. Collaboration is another cornerstone of LBA’s design process. The firm actively engages stakeholders—including  residents, civic leaders, and institutions—to ensure that each project reflects the needs and aspirations of the community it serves. This participatory approach not only enhances design outcomes but also fosters a sense of ownership and connection among users. In projects like the Westmoreland Museum of American Art expansion, LBA facilitated extensive collaboration to shape a design that both respects the existing structure and creates vibrant new public spaces.

LBA’s portfolio demonstrates a diverse range of expertise, spanning urban regeneration, public realm design, campus planning, and garden design. Signature projects such as Pack Square Park in Asheville, the University of Pittsburgh Central Campus, and Frankie Pace Park in Pittsburgh highlight the firm’s ability to transform underutilized or fragmented spaces into dynamic, people-centered environments. These projects often go beyond aesthetics, addressing broader social and economic goals such as connectivity, accessibility, and community vitality. The firm’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in the belief that landscapes should be both functional and meaningful. By combining artistic vision with technical expertise, LBA creates spaces that are not only visually compelling but also highly usable and sustainable. This balance between creativity and practicality has been a key factor in the firm’s longevity and success.

Leadership plays a critical role in shaping LBA’s direction. Founding partner Frederick R. Bonci has been instrumental in guiding the firm’s projects and philosophy, with a focus on creating vibrant, equitable, and sustainable public spaces. His collaborative approach and emphasis on community engagement have helped establish LBA as a trusted partner for complex, multidisciplinary projects. Despite its relatively small team, LBA’s impact is significant. The firm’s ability to deliver high-quality, tailored solutions reflects a deep commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail. This hands-on approach allows the team to remain closely involved in every stage of the design process, from concept development to implementation.

Sustainability remains a central theme in LBA’s work, particularly as environmental challenges such as climate change, urban heat islands, and habitat loss become increasingly urgent. The firm addresses these issues through strategies that promote resilience, such as the use of native plantings, sustainable stormwater management systems, and designs that mitigate environmental impact while enhancing user experience.

Equally important is LBA’s focus on creating inclusive and equitable spaces. The firm recognizes that well-designed landscapes can serve as platforms for social interaction, cultural expression, and community building. By prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity, LBA ensures that its projects benefit a wide range of users and contribute to the overall well-being of the communities they serve. Ultimately, LBA Landscape Architecture’s success lies in its ability to create places that resonate—spaces that not only meet functional needs but also inspire emotional connections. Through its thoughtful, collaborative, and sustainable approach, the firm continues to shape environments that enrich lives, strengthen communities, and leave a lasting positive impact on the world.