Tier II, a landscape design-build firm based in Brooklyn, has rapidly emerged as a leader in urban landscape architecture, completing over three million square feet of outdoor spaces since its founding in 2015. Under the leadership of Tzvi Rauch, who started the company at only 22 years old, Tier II is changing perceptions of what a successful landscape firm can achieve in a city known for its competitive real estate market.
The firm has gained recognition for its ability to transform underutilized spaces into vibrant outdoor environments. From rooftop gardens to high-efficiency green infrastructure, Tier II has successfully navigated the challenges of a city where available land is limited and expectations are exceptionally high. Their projects combine functionality with aesthetic appeal, emphasizing the importance of green spaces in urban settings.
Innovative Growth Without External Funding
Unlike many of its competitors, Tier II has achieved its growth without relying on external investors. Instead, the company has focused on building strong community ties, developing effective systems, and fostering client relationships. This self-sustaining approach has allowed Tier II to deliver projects efficiently while maintaining high standards of quality.
Every project serves as a demonstration of how speed and quality can coexist without compromise. The firm has built a reputation for reliability, earning repeat contracts with prominent developers and architects throughout New York City. The company’s journey is marked by a culture of accountability, where every team member, from designers to builders, shares responsibility for the outcome.
Collaboration Drives Success
Tier II’s collaborative model sets it apart in the landscape design industry. By integrating closely with project teams from the initial stages of schematic planning to the final touches of construction, the firm ensures a smooth transition from vision to execution. This approach minimizes friction and reduces project timelines, which is crucial in fast-paced urban environments.
Developers and architects consistently commend Tier II for its responsiveness and clarity, citing these qualities as game-changers in their projects. Instead of merely handing off design plans, the firm embeds its team members into project workflows from the outset. This construction-minded approach to design enhances the feasibility of each project, allowing for seamless integration of ideas and execution.
Leading the Vertical Landscape Revolution
In a city where every square foot counts, Tier II has demonstrated that outdoor spaces are valuable assets rather than mere afterthoughts. As urban living conditions continue to evolve, the firm stands at the forefront, creating environments that enhance property value, user experience, and overall livability.
Beyond practical considerations, Tier II’s work also addresses a fundamental human need for connection with nature, particularly in dense metropolitan areas. Their rooftop designs are not only functional but also serve as serene retreats for city dwellers. In a post-pandemic world, where health and wellness have taken center stage, Tier II is reshaping the landscape architecture narrative to encompass broader quality-of-life considerations.
From its humble beginnings as a two-person operation led by Tzvi Rauch and his wife, Liba Miller, Tier II now boasts a team of over 20 members. This growth reflects the firm’s commitment to excellence and innovation in a challenging urban landscape. As Tier II continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in landscape architecture, its story serves as a testament to the power of vision and execution in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
