Karen says:
"Landscape design is a second career for me. Pursuing a life-long interest in gardens and ecology, I graduated from the Landscape Institute of the Arnold Arboretum (Harvard) in 2005, where I studied theoretical and applied design, plant identification and use, modern landscape history, construction, site engineering, and professional practice. I have also taken classes at New England Wild Flower Society in native shrubs, wildflowers, and invasive plant control, and have completed commercial seminars in irrigation, lighting, and water feature design.

Living overseas for many years sharpened my interest in the way varying topography, ecology and taste combine to give each place a unique landscape appearance. (My former career was in the Foreign Service, and I lived in India, Pakistan, Indonesia, France, and Switzerland.) Seeking to define and achieve that unique style for New England interests me. While I don't restrict my plant lists to native plants, I believe that they are usually the most suitable ecological choice.

Education and community service are also a part of what I do - I teach landscaping-related classes in the Lexington Community Education program, am in my third term on the Lexington Town Tree Committee, and am a former Girl Scout leader. I also help out, especially with tree questions, on the Lexington High School's PTSA landscaping committee."