What We Do

Habitat Land Planning provides comprehensive land planning, landscape design, and project management services for residential, commercial, and community developments. We partner with clients from concept through construction to create timeless landscapes that are functional, ecologically responsible, and built to endure. 

Community | Connection | Habitat

Designing with Purpose

Kelly Cowan | Founder & Landscape Designer

Habitat Land Planning was founded on the belief that exceptional landscapes emerge from a deep understanding of the land, thoughtful collaboration, and timeless design. Led by Kelly Cowan, the firm draws upon an interdisciplinary foundation in construction management, horticulture, and landscape architecture to create meaningful outdoor environments that are both functional and ecologically responsible.

Kelly’s work is rooted in the belief that every site has a unique story to tell. By responding to the natural character of the land, she designs landscapes that seamlessly integrate ecological systems with the way people live, work, and gather. The result is a balanced approach that enhances the beauty, functionality, and long-term resilience of each project.

Over the course of her career, Kelly’s practice has evolved beyond traditional landscape design to encompass land planning, ecological site design, entitlement, and project management. Today, Habitat Land Planning serves as both a design studio and a planning partner, helping clients navigate the complex process of transforming a vision into a successful built environment. From feasibility studies and conceptual planning to permitting, consultant coordination, construction documentation, and construction observation, the firm provides strategic guidance throughout every phase of project development.

Kelly has contributed to projects ranging from intimate residential gardens and private estates to large-scale master planning, mixed-use developments, and community planning initiatives. Her experience across disciplines allows her to bridge design, engineering, construction, and environmental stewardship, creating landscapes that are both practical and enduring.

At Habitat Land Planning, every project begins with understanding the land and listening to our clients. Through thoughtful collaboration and practical problem-solving, we create places that balance ecological stewardship, regulatory requirements, budget, and long-term resilience. Our goal is to create landscapes that are not only beautiful today but continue to thrive for generations.

Services We Offer

Planning

  • Site Feasibility & Due Diligence
  • Site Evaluation Prior to Property Acquisition
  • Land Planning
  • Entitlement & Permitting Coordination
  • Environmental Permitting (USACE Section 404)

Design

  • Sustainable Site Planning
  • Landscape Design
  • Native Planting Design
  • Interior Plantscape Design
  • Construction Documentation
  • Sustainable Material Selection

Implementation

  • Plant Procurement & Sourcing
  • Construction Administration & Project Management
  • Installation Coordination
  • Construction Observation

Licensed North Carolina Landscape Contractor

Get In Touch

Let’s explore ways to create strong connections between the natural world and the built environments we live in.