Who We Are

Knaak Design Group 

 Registered Landscape Architects  |  Certified Building Contractors 

Registered Landscape Architects
Certified Building Contractors

Meet the team of talented landscape and community architects at Knaak Design Group. As a member of the American Society of Architects, we'll ensure that your residential, commercial, or municipal project is completed on time and within your budget. Call us to schedule a design consultation today!

Knaak Design Group has an extensive portfolio that reflects their years of experience in pool and outdoor living design.  Our mission is to exceed our client's expectations in design, construction, and reputation for each and every project. Our clients value our extensive knowledge, experience, and resources because our goal is to assure the maximum function and enjoyment of your outdoor space while maintaining your budget.

Established in Florida over 20 years ago, KNAAK DESIGN GROUP has been designing master planned communities along with fine pools, gardens, and outdoor living spaces throughout the state and the country.  During this time, we have established a reputation for inventive pool and hardscape designs , quality landscape installation, and a spectacular attention to detail.  Our clients are discerning and demanding.  From seamless outdoor kitchen and dining areas to unique spaces that feature custom pools, pergolas, and fire pits, we can provide you with the perfect opportunity to explore, dream, and create your ultimate outdoor retreat.


HOW WE ARE DIFFERENT: 


Education and Licensing

All of our designers are registered landscape architects. To become a landscape architect , you must have graduated from an accredited university with a bachelor's and/or master's degree in landscape architecture.   These require five years of study in design, construction, art, history, and natural and social sciences.    


Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) .

Entrance into the profession not only requires a bachelor's or master's degree but at least two (2) years of training under a licensed landscape architect, rigorous licensure testing, and a list of specialized skills.  It is a long road to becoming a licensed and professional landscape architect but our clients can see the benefit with our uniquely

designed pools and outdoor spaces.


Florida

Robert B. Knäak, ASLA, RLA, CLARB, CBC

Registered Landscape Architect Certified Building Contractor
Robert B. Knäak

Robert B. Knäak, ASLA, RLA, CLARB, CBC

Principal / Registered Landscape Architect / Certified Building Contractor
Robert B. Knäak
Registered landscape architect, Robert B. Knäak, has achieved expertise in the design of master-planned resorts and communities throughout the United States.

After graduating from Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California, Robert has had the opportunity to work for some of the country’s most prestigious land development companies while mastering the art of country club and resort design.

Developing master plans, establishing design criteria, and creating beautiful landscape themes became an integral part of his experience. As principal of Knaak Design Group, his responsibilities include contract preparation and negotiation along with the management of land development & landscape architectural projects.

He is currently responsible for overseeing conceptual design, design development, and construction document stages on all development projects.

Robert B. Knäak is a licensed registered landscape architect in Arizona (RLA #52862), Florida (RLA #6666907), and Texas (RLA #2591). He is also a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), a Certified Building Contractor (CBC #1256813) in Florida, and holds certification with the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB #6093).
REGISTERED landscape architect, Robert B. Knäak, has achieved expertise in the design of master-planned resorts and communities throughout the United States.

After graduating from Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, California, Robert has had the opportunity to work for some of the country’s most prestigious land development companies while mastering the art of country club and resort design.

Developing master plans, establishing design criteria, and creating beautiful landscape themes became an integral part of his experience. As principal of Knaak Design Group, his responsibilities include contract preparation and negotiation along with the management of land development & landscape architectural projects.

He is currently responsible for overseeing conceptual design, design development, and construction document stages on all development projects.

Robert B. Knäak is a licensed registered landscape architect in Arizona (RLA #52862), Florida (RLA #6666907), and Texas (RLA #2591). He is also a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), a Certified Building Contractor (CBC #1256813) in Florida, and holds certification with the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB #6093).

Frances Rippcondi, BLA, ASLA

Associate / Director of Design
Frances Rippcondi

Frances Rippcondi, BLA, ASLA

Associate / Director of Design
Frances Rippcondi
Frances Rippcondi’s passion for nature, interest in art and experience in graphic design led her to pursue a career in landscape architecture. In 1996, she graduated summa cum laude from the School of Architecture and Design receiving a Bachelor’s of landscape architecture degree from the University of Florida.

For over 15 years, Frances has gained extensive knowledge and experience working with the nation’s largest award-winning land development company, creating premier master-planned communities extending throughout the state of Florida.

As a team leader, she plays a key role in the development and design of community images, project placement within the market, and the support of key branding efforts through landscape design and implementation.

Areas of concentration associated with each master-planned community include conceptual design development, schematic design, planting design, construction documents, and overseeing all phases of construction and installation.

Her role as a director and liaison between architects, project managers and construction support team continues to ensure that each project receives specialized attention to detail.
Frances Rippcondi’s passion for nature, interest in art and experience in graphic design led her to pursue a career in landscape architecture. In 1996, she graduated summa cum laude from the School of Architecture and Design receiving a Bachelor’s of landscape architecture degree from the University of Florida.

For over 15 years, Frances has gained extensive knowledge and experience working with the nation’s largest award-winning land development company, creating premier master-planned communities extending throughout the state of Florida.

As a team leader, she plays a key role in the development and design of community images, project placement within the market, and the support of key branding efforts through landscape design and implementation.

Areas of concentration associated with each master-planned community include conceptual design development, schematic design, planting design, construction documents, and overseeing all phases of construction and installation.

Her role as a director and liaison between architects, project managers and construction support team continues to ensure that each project receives specialized attention to detail.

James M. Towery, RLA, ASLA, CLC

Associate / Landscape Architect
James M. Towery

James M. Towery, RLA, ASLA, CLC

Associate / Landscape Architect
James M. Towery
As a landscape architect and planning professional, James M. Towery has over 35 years of experience in the design-build area of landscape architecture and land development.

He has worked on numerous golf course, master-planned communities, and residential estate projects throughout the state of Florida. Jim has extensive knowledge of site evaluation, bid review, field design, construction practices, scheduling, and plant material selection essential for design-build project management.

His expertise and knowledge of green and sustainable practices helps Knaak Design Group, and its clients stay current in today’s environmental demands.

James M. Towery is a licensed registered Landscape Architect in Florida (RLA #617), as well as a certified Landscape Contractor (State of Florida #10) and certified Professional Horticulturist (State of Florida #6658). Mr. Tower graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture from Michigan State University.
As a REGISTERED landscape architect and planning professional, James M. Towery has over 35 years of experience in the design-build area of landscape architecture and land development.

He has worked on numerous golf course, master-planned communities, and residential estate projects throughout the state of Florida. Jim has extensive knowledge of site evaluation, bid review, field design, construction practices, scheduling, and plant material selection essential for design-build project management.

His expertise and knowledge of green and sustainable practices helps Knaak Design Group, and its clients stay current in today’s environmental demands.

James M. Towery is a licensed registered Landscape Architect in Florida (RLA #617), as well as a certified Landscape Contractor (State of Florida #10) and certified Professional Horticulturist (State of Florida #6658). Mr. Tower graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture from Michigan State University.

Sarah Hernandez

Managing Member / Brand Development
Sarah Hernandez

Sarah Hernandez

Managing Member / Brand Development
Sarah Hernandez
Sarah Hernandez leads the brand development of Knaak Design Group through marketing, sales, and strategies that build the brand on a local, regional, and national level.

With a broad range of business experience, Ms. Hernandez understands the effectiveness of how marketing and emerging technologies can drive new business growth and retain valuable clients.

Overseeing all facets of business development and marketing, Sarah also facilitates the brand development, market research, and positioning for Knaak Design Group's clients during the design development process.

Prior to her role at Knaak Design Group, Sarah spent fourteen years in sales and marketing, most recently in franchise development and consulting with private education companies in all grade levels up to higher education.

Additionally, she has lead marketing campaigns for different business models for legal, staffing, education, retail, construction, real estate, and design firms.

Sarah Hernandez is a member of the American Marketing Association (AMA) and the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS). She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. She is also a candidate for a Master’s in business administration from Florida Gulf Coast University.
Sarah Hernandez leads the brand development of Knaak Design Group through marketing, sales, and strategies that build the brand on a local, regional, and national level.

With a broad range of business experience, Ms. Hernandez understands the effectiveness of how marketing and emerging technologies can drive new business growth and retain valuable clients.

Overseeing all facets of business development and marketing, Sarah also facilitates the brand development, market research, and positioning for Knaak Design Group's clients during the design development process.

Prior to her role at Knaak Design Group, Sarah spent fourteen years in sales and marketing, most recently in franchise development and consulting with private education companies in all grade levels up to higher education.

Additionally, she has lead marketing campaigns for different business models for legal, staffing, education, retail, construction, real estate, and design firms.

Sarah Hernandez is a member of the American Marketing Association (AMA) and the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS). She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. She is also a candidate for a Master’s in business administration from Florida Gulf Coast University.

Michael L. Mayer, RLA

Principal / Landscape Architect
Michael L. Mayer

Michael L. Mayer, RLA

Principal / Landscape Architect
Michael L. Mayer
Michael L. Mayer has over 20 years of experience in the field of landscape architecture working for innovative firms in resort design & development, commercial, and residential projects. His in-depth knowledge of construction practices ensures thorough drawing preparation and site supervision.

Mike has built a reputation as having expertise in resort design concepts, technical drawings, and graphic presentations, as he helps bring his clients’ projects to fruition. He provides senior management oversight for all land development projects and master-planned communities.

Mike has extensive resort design experience in both private land development and infrastructure projects. His significant master-planned community and resort design experience services include feasibility, site evaluations, project planning, and sustainable development.

Michael L. Mayer is a licensed registered Landscape Architect in California (RLA # 3730), Nevada (RLA#583), and Texas (RLA#2629). He is a graduate of Texas Tech University, with a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture.

Michael L. Mayer has over 30 years of experience in the field of landscape architecture working for innovative firms in resort design & development, commercial, and residential projects.  His in-depth knowledge of construction practices ensures thorough drawing preparation and site supervision.


Mike has built a reputation as having expertise in resort design concepts, technical drawings, and graphic presentations, as he helps bring his clients’ projects to fruition. He provides senior management oversight for all land development projects and master-planned communities.


Mike has extensive resort design experience in both private land development and infrastructure projects. His significant master-planned community and resort design experience services include feasibility, site evaluations, project planning, and sustainable development.


Michael L. Mayer is a licensed REGISTERED Landscape Architect in California (RLA # 3730), Nevada (RLA#583), and Texas (RLA#2629). He is a graduate of Texas Tech University, with a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture.

About

Knaak Design Group Specializes in Outdoor Living Design-Build Services including Pool Renovations, Landscape, and Hardscape Design for Private Residences, Communities, and Recreation Facilities throughout Florida and United States.

Year Established

2005

Products

Services

  • Residential Landscaping Architecture
  • Lighting and Audio
  • Outdoor Kitchens and Grills
  • Outdoor Enclosures
  • Outdoor Living Areas
  • Concrete Pavers
  • Hardscape Elements
  • Outdoor Fireplaces
  • Native Stone Pavers
  • Pergolas
  • Pools
  • Spas
  • Pool Renovations
  • Landscape Design

Specialties

  • Pool Renovation & Design

Business Hours

Mon - Fri
-
Sat - Sun
Closed
By Appointment Only - Weekends Included

Holiday Hours

Associations

  • American Society of Architects
  • Florida ASLA
  • CLARB Certified Landscape Architect
  • American Society of Landscape Architects

Languages

  • English

Pickup and Delivery

Good to Know

Brands

  • Solisysteme Pergolas
  • Ledge Loungers
  • FireMagic
  • Bull
  • Artistic Pavers
  • LandFX
  • StoneMart

Payment Options

Share by: