Business Details
11 Years
experience
Award-Winning Landscape Architects in Manchester
CW Studio is a design-led, award-winning landscape architecture practice established in 2015, dedicated to creating thoughtful, sustainable, and joyful spaces. Founded by Carolyn Willitts, our Manchester-based team combines expertise in landscape architecture with creative storytelling, drawing inspiration from diverse fields such as theatre design and ecology. We collaborate closely with clients, architects, artists, and ecologists to craft bespoke environments that connect people with nature and foster community engagement.Our work spans public realm projects, green infrastructure, and innovative placemaking, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and addressing the climate crisis. Recognised for excellence, including the 2020 Institute of Directors Award for Innovation, we prioritise lifelong learning, employee wellbeing, and designing spaces that endure for future generations.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Urban Design
Public Realm Projects
Green Infrastructure
Ecological Planning
Community Consultation
Biodiversity Enhancement
Sustainable Drainage Systems
Heritage Landscape Design
Play Space Creation
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We combine landscape architecture with creative storytelling for unique designs
- Award-winning team with expertise in sustainable urban design since 2015
- Collaborative approach working with ecologists, artists, and engineers
- Recognised for innovation in public realm projects and climate-conscious design
- Client testimonials highlight our proactive, creative problem-solving approach
Associations and certifications
- Fellow of the Landscape Institute (FLI)
- Institute of Directors Award for Innovation
What people say
Creative and proactive approach
Brought the project to life
Innovative design solutions
Strong community engagement
Excellent attention to detail
Services
Landscape Architecture
We create bespoke landscapes that connect people with nature through innovative design solutions. Our approach combines ecological expertise with creative storytelling to deliver spaces that inspire joy and foster community interaction. Projects range from public parks to corporate campuses, always prioritising sustainability and long-term resilience.
Urban Design
Our urban design services focus on creating vibrant, functional public spaces that enhance city living. We specialise in masterplanning, streetscape improvements, and integrating green infrastructure into urban environments. Our work aims to improve pedestrian flow, encourage active travel, and create places that support social interaction and economic growth.
Green Infrastructure
We develop sustainable solutions that integrate natural processes into built environments. Our green infrastructure expertise includes rain gardens, living walls, and biodiversity corridors that manage stormwater, improve air quality, and support wildlife habitats while creating beautiful, functional spaces for communities.
Community Consultation
We facilitate meaningful dialogue between stakeholders and project teams through workshops, presentations, and interactive sessions. Our consultation process ensures diverse voices shape the final design, resulting in spaces that truly meet community needs and foster a sense of ownership.
Play Space Creation
We design inclusive play environments that stimulate imagination and encourage physical activity. Our spaces incorporate natural elements, accessible features, and creative play structures that cater to children of all abilities, creating joyful destinations for families and communities.
People
Carolyn Willitts
Founder and Director
Award-winning landscape architect with theatre design background, specialising in public realm projects. Fellow of the Landscape Institute and 2020 IoD Innovation Award winner. Passionate about participatory design and creating joyful public spaces.
Lucy Marshall
Associate Landscape Architect
Expert in green infrastructure and biodiversity, with extensive community consultation experience. Skilled in translating ecological principles into practical landscape solutions that benefit both wildlife and local communities through sustainable design approaches.
Suresh Collett
Senior Landscape Architect
Technical design specialist with BIM expertise, bridging landscape proposals with structural requirements. Skilled in 3D visualisation and innovative problem-solving throughout all project phases, ensuring technical excellence and buildability.
Alice Murphy
Senior Landscape Architect
Specialist in sustainable water management and urban greening, with experience in public realm projects including Greater Manchester's Bee Network. Focuses on using plants to enhance mental wellbeing and urban biodiversity.
Anna Syed
Assistant Landscape Architect
Passionate about inclusive design and climate resilience, with expertise in hospice garden masterplanning. Applies universal design principles to create accessible, uplifting spaces that foster connection and wellbeing.
Questions
What areas do you cover for landscape architecture projects?
We primarily work across Greater Manchester, Cheshire, and North Wales, with projects extending nationwide.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We integrate green infrastructure, sustainable drainage systems, and native planting to address climate resilience.
Can you work on both public and private sector projects?
Yes, we have experience with local authorities, healthcare providers, and private developers.
What makes your approach to landscape design unique?
Our background in theatre design brings storytelling and creativity to every project we undertake.
How do you involve communities in your projects?
We conduct workshops, school programs, and stakeholder presentations to ensure inclusive design outcomes.
