Landscape Architect Opens Whitefish Bay Studio

Five years ago, Jovo Ivekich decided to leave his day job and start a landscape architecture firm that focuses on creativity and collaboration.

Since making that decision, Elements Design Landscape Architecture has built a reputation among those who want an emotional experience in an outdoor setting.

Elements' most high-profile portfolio piece can be seen on the outdoor patio of the Iron Horse Hotel. "The Yard," as it's known, incorporates steel, a fire pit and other materials that symbolize the industrial theme of the hotel. 

After seeing "The Yard" and some of Elements' other work, you wouldn't dare call Ivekich's work landscaping. He brings his expertise in plants, landscaping and outdoor furnishings into each project with the goal of telling a story.

"We are landscape architects of the outdoor environment," he said. "I call it a boutique for outdoor living because the services we offer are hands-on and design intensive."

On Monday, Ivekich moved his design studio from the basement of his Fox Point home to an office above the new Erik's Bike and Board Shop at 155 E. Silver Spring Drive.

Ivekich said he is excited to meet other people in the Whitefish Bay business community because he believes collaboration leads to success – a principal he carries over into his landscape architecture business.

Ivekich said he encourages clients to collaborate in the design process but also looks forward to guiding them through the many decisions they will have to make, from deciding on a general concept to deciding on materials, design specifications and bidding out contracts. 

Throughout the process, though, he believes it is important to involve the client as much as possible.

"I think the creative process needs to be more transparent and interactive," he said. "I sometimes tell clients that they hold all the puzzle pieces, and I put the puzzle together. I'm trying to tell a story, and that story is based on the client's vision."

To learn more about Elements Design, visit the company's website.