Layla Stanley (left) Emily Simpson (right)
Emily Simpson
Landscape Director
Contact
E: emily@emilysimpsonlandscape.com.au
Mona Vale, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Academic:
2007 Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (Hons1) UNSW
Place & Planning Prize: Best Performance in Landscape Graduation Studio UNSW
Professional Accreditation:
2012 AILA registered Landscape Architect 001818
Professional Webinars:
2024 AILA and Government Architect NSW
Nature in the City- Fostering Biodiversity
2025 AILA Project Spotlight- Greyleigh
Emily has worked as a Landscape Architect for 20 years with a wide range of experience in varied scales of projects. She had the amazing opportunity to commence her career with Sue Barnsley Design and was intimately involved in the design and construction of 13 pocket parks for the City of Sydney and the award-winning Prince Alfred Park and Pool as well as Jubilee Playground which won the NSW AILA medal.
Together, Emily and Layla combine their shared passion for horticulture, art, architecture and the Australian bush to create biodiverse, resilient and distinctly contemporary landscapes grounded in place.
Layla Stanley
Landscape Designer
Contact
E: layla@emilysimpsonlandscape.com.au
Academic:
2019 Masters of Architecture University of Sydney
2019 | The University of Sydney Postgraduate
Innovation in Architectural Design Graduate Award
Professional Achievement:
AA Prize for Unbuilt Work Joint Winner
During Layla’s architecture studies, she became interested in the intersections between the natural and built environment often through the lens of drawing. This sparked a shift into landscape architecture. Working with Emily, Layla has developed an intensified interest in the local environment and the influence of Australia’s native plant & animal life on its identity. Highlighting the importance of conserving our natural landscapes and reinvigorating the built environment with native flora and fauna.
the design flow
The site is explored with an observant mind. Consideration that every site needs to be responded and adapted to uniquely. How does the site sit in the overall landscape?
What are the magic treasures on the site which need to be protected and enhanced? What innovative & sustainable design solutions can be considered in response to the site?
How can the design be innovative, and utilise materials and plant species which do not put a burden on our environment? Considering recycled materials, reusing site material, collection of water for reuse, productive plants, creating wildlife/bee food and habitat for pollination.
Attentiveness to clients requirements is crucial and how can the landscape embrace and enhance the built form to make seamless and joyful experiences.
Close collaboration with architect, engineers and other consultants is critical in the development of the design for the flow and functionality of the project.
During construction, attention to detail is considered and communicated when working along side landscape contractors/ builders to ensure that the project is of high quality and the maintenance of the project is directed at the end of the project to ensure a long term successful outcome, which evolves and is resilient over time.