Gresham Smith is proud to announce that Katie Rudowsky Garrett, PLA, has joined the firm’s Land Planning market as a project executive in the firm’s landscape architecture and civil engineering practice. She is based in the firm’s Nashville, Tennessee office.
Katie is a highly experienced landscape architect known for her leadership in commercial, mixed-use and community-focused projects. Before joining Gresham Smith, Katie was a partner at Kiser + Vogrin Design, where she led the design and planning of major regional developments throughout Middle Tennessee such as McEwen Northside, Berry Farms, Delux WeHo, The Modernest WeHo, Franklin City Hall, and The Village at Church of the City.
Most recently, Katie founded SageLA Studio, a boutique landscape architecture and land planning firm focused on creating thoughtful exterior spaces and master plans. With experience spanning hospitality, civic, and mixed-use developments, she brings a unique perspective to designing places that encourage gathering, connection, and a sense of belonging.
Katie’s approach to landscape architecture is rooted in thoughtful placemaking, sustainability, and community engagement. Her leadership extends beyond project execution to include active mentorship and professional development within the industry. She previously served as co-chair of ULI Nashville’s Mentor Program, a member of ULI Nashville’s Advisory Board, and a stakeholder on multiple ULI Nashville Technical Assistance Panels. Today, she serves on the board of Nashville’s Civic Design Center and is recognized as a national thought leader, most recently serving as a panelist and leading tours at ULI’s Annual Spring Meeting.
Katie demonstrates a strong commitment to community collaboration, notably through her leadership in neighborhood planning initiatives like the Wedgewood Houston area. As a past Chair of South Nashville Action People (SNAP), she played a key role in shaping development criteria and a community benefits agreement that fosters inclusive growth and affordable housing. Her efforts involved actively engaging local stakeholders, Metro city council, and collaborating with adjacent neighborhood associations to ensure that developments align with community needs and sustainability goals.
“We are thrilled to welcome Katie to Gresham Smith,” said Louis Johnson, Land Planning Executive Vice President. “Her proven ability to shape meaningful, sustainable landscapes and her commitment to mentorship and community leadership will strengthen our work in Middle Tennessee and beyond.”
Katie earned her Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Penn State University.
