Design Philosophy (updated 01/02/10)

Muse Design Inc. approaches each new project with a thoughtful exploration of the site and a meaningful conversation with the client(s) about goals and expectations.   Inspiration comes from the sites unique context;  historical, cultural, ecological and philosophical. Understanding the client and context assures manmade and natural elements are integrated perfectly.  No compromise to either is the target outcome.  Today Muse Design Inc. proudly offers residential and corporate landowners inspired conservation development planning, and landscape design.

It’s now been 24 years that I’ve been designing and building landscapes and working in the field of ecologically restoration.  I’m a very lucky man because I have always had a deep passion for ecology and art. My life work in landscape design has been a fantastic journey into both.

The philosophy behind my work is as important as the work itself.  Thoughts I have about man’s interdependent relationship with nature have been refined again and again by lessons I have learned from the many rural people and remote cultures I have encountered and studied.  There is a truth about the human condition expressed in the art work of historic painters, sculptors and architects.  This same truth can be found in the contrast between today’s modern and indigenous cultures; especially indigenous cultures fortunate enough to still have their native language.  My search for the nature and character of this common truth, this human theme if you will, has been a fascination of mine since childhood.

Generalizations should be avoided, but here it goes: Man’s profound preoccupation with nature’s many mysteries is a universal phenomenon in human history.

Today change and innovation move quickly and most of us are witnessing a shift in our modern society away from the wonders of the natural world towards an interior environment supported by technological innovation.  Along with this shift there is a decisive ‘green’ movement that is growing more main stream by the day. More and more people are realizing that a productive and healthy society must constantly support and create ways to keep the environment health and nature relevant in peoples’s lives.

Plainly put, there is no virtual equal to the feeling we get from awakening to a clear blue sky or watching a full moon rising over the ocean. We are  human, and we are still drawn to natural spaces that are peaceful and beautiful. When there, we internalize their balance and harmony.

Many of my client’s share my passion for natural spaces and their quest for connection and balance drives much of what I do for them. Within today’s current design trend, referred to as the “New American Garden Style”, I have taken to creating spaces where nature is prominent, vibrant, easily accessible and very, very relevant.

In early America our forefather’s inherited a classic European style which, although quite beautiful, held little regard for the land’s ecological values. These old methods and styles have given way to a new appreciation for, and expression of, our unique ecological heritage and the link between healthy landscapes and health lives.

Muse Design Inc. is at the forefront of this natural design revolution. Our unique esthetic has roots in Asian religious teachings, while at the same time drawing from today’s sustainability necessities and tomorrow’s design trends. Our understanding of, and ability to protect/restore natural elements in the landscape is becoming increasingly important to the landscape design profession. We have seen a steady increase in demand for the type of harmony we can create between a full functioning residential (or commercial) use and a vibrant, meaningful ecology.  In some progressive townships here on Long Island, NY such sustainable practices are now required by law.

Muse Design Inc. insists that economic growth amounts to nothing if you sacrifice environmental quality in the process.  Conservation in the economics of a landscape design or environmental restoration project is a top priority. I insist that everyone at Muse Design Inc. take reasonability for tight fiscal management and the utmost respect for our client’s investments. We are always looking for opportunities to apply ‘value engineering’ and ‘cost saving design’ solutions. Our 23 years of construction experience provides for rare mistakes and an overall environment of personal satisfaction among staff members.

That’s the philosophy behind the results, thanks for taking the time and expressing an interest in what we do. When it all comes together you'll find yourself in a beautiful celebration of nature.

Thomas B.Muse