MEET THE KWD TEAM
Read about our Mission, Vision, and Values HERE
Principals
Krent Wieland, PLA, ASLA
Founding Principal [FL Registered LA #0001039]
In 1984, after nearly a decade of honing his craft, Krent Wieland launched KWD—originally Krent Wieland Design, Inc.—and never looked back. For over 40 years, his signature style and forward-thinking designs have woven elegance and innovation into the very fabric of Florida’s landscape.
While his work is concentrated in central and southern Florida, Krent’s magic has traveled far and wide, with stunning projects in North Carolina, Texas, Connecticut, and internationally in the Bahamas and Mexico. His portfolio reads like a storybook of architectural wonders, from private estates that feel like hidden paradises to community developments buzzing with life, golf-course retreats that melt into nature, and resorts that redefine luxury.
What sets Krent’s work apart is his meticulous attention to detail, evident in his intricate hardscape designs and masterfully crafted landscape plans. His visionary approach has earned national recognition, gracing the pages of Architectural Digest, Florida Design Magazine, and Luxe Magazine. Over the decades, his groundbreaking designs have been showered with accolades, including the prestigious “Award of Honor” from the American Society of Landscape Architects, multiple Grand Aurora Awards, the Best in American Living Award (Silver and South Atlantic Region Winner for “Best One-of-a-Kind Custom Home”), and numerous distinctions from the Florida Nurserymen and Grower’s Association and the Gold Coast Building Association.
At the heart of KWD is a dynamic, collaborative team, nurtured by Krent’s commitment to mentorship, creativity, and respect. Employees are encouraged to take an active role in the design process, fostering a culture where ideas thrive and innovation flourishes. Today, under Krent’s visionary leadership, KWD continues to push boundaries, crafting bespoke design solutions that transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Education
Michigan State University – Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Amy Wieland-Carlson, MLA, ASLA
Managing Principal/Senior Project Manager
Amy joined KWD in 2015 and has been shaping landscapes—and strategies—ever since! As a Managing Principal and Senior Project Manager, she blends creativity with keen leadership, backed by a Master of Landscape Architecture from Florida International University. But Amy’s talents don’t stop at design—she’s also a whiz at business management, strategic planning, and turning complex data into actionable insights. With a past life in Vermont State Government and the Vermont Secretary of State’s Office of Professional Regulation, she’s mastered the art of organization, budgeting, and policy creation. Whether she’s crafting outdoor spaces or streamlining processes, Amy brings a mix of innovation, precision, and a touch of magic to everything she does!
Education
Florida International University – Master of Landscape Architecture
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- Tau Sigma Delta, FIU Sigma Xi Chapter, Honor Society in Architecture and Allied Arts
- Award of Merit – Florida ASLA Student Awards
Champlain College-Bachelor of Science in Professional Studies
Champlain College-Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
Florida Atlantic University-Construction Management Certificate
Kristen Walters
Principal/Senior Project Manager
Kris became part of the KWD family in 2000, starting as a drafter in planting design. With a natural knack for all things green and growing, she became a Project Manager in 2002, and by 2022, she had earned the title of Principal. With roots in the landscape nursery and design industry stretching back to 1978, Kris brings a wealth of expertise and an unrivaled passion for Florida’s vibrant plant life. Beloved by clients for her keen eye and unmatched expertise, she is not only an exceptionally skilled Senior Project Manager but also a generous mentor, guiding the next generation of designers with wisdom and care.
Awards
Gold Coast Builders Association Platinum Prism Award Winner – Project Manager of the Year 2023
Dante Cornish
Principal/Senior Project Manager
Dante became a valued member of KWD in 2016, bringing with him an impressive 12 years of landscape architecture expertise and five years of project management experience. His talent and dedication earned him a well-deserved promotion to Principal in 2022. Renowned within the firm as the go-to expert for solving even the trickiest CAD challenges, Dante combines technical mastery with a deep understanding of Florida’s diverse plant life. As an exceptionally skilled and efficient Senior Project Manager, he continues to drive projects forward with precision and creativity. With his sights set on the Landscape Architect Registration Examination, Dante continues to grow, proving that even the best never stop learning.
Education
University of Georgia – Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Project Managers
KWD Project Managers are responsible for their assigned projects from conceptual initiation to completion. They oversee the preparation of landscape architectural design plans and documents in keeping with the KWD design philosophy. Due to our long-standing reputation for unique and innovative design; typical design documents include highly detailed architectural plans related to hardscape and landscape design elements. The architectural plans are created by a dedicated team of designers under the direction and oversight of the Project Managers. The Project Managers are also responsible for building and maintaining client relationships that complement the creative, welcoming and dependable core values of KWD.
Son Truong
Senior Project Manager
KWD was thrilled to welcome Son to our team in 2022! With a passion for crafting stunning outdoor spaces since 2006, he brings a sharp analytical mind, a keen eye for detail, and an unwavering dedication to exceptional customer service. Known for his problem-solving prowess and seamless project management, Son has built a stellar reputation for turning challenges into creative, efficient solutions.
Education
The University of Georgia – Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Landscape Designers
Erika Ledesma-Fierro
Landscape Designer
Erika made a dynamic return to KWD in 2016 after an inspiring time in Ecuador. With a rich background in architecture dating back to 1998, including hands-on experience as an architect in Ecuador, she brings a wealth of expertise to our team. Her mastery of CAD hardscape layout and intricate detailing makes her an invaluable asset, blending precision with creativity to bring every design to life.
Education
Catholic University of Ecuador – Bachelor of Architecture
Quito’s Construction Chamber – Industrial Safety Certificate
Quito’s Construction Chamber – Construction Management Certificate
Amanda Hart, PLA, ASLA
Landscape Architect/Landscape Designer [FL Registered LA #6667695] [RI Registered LA #0000714]
Amanda rejoined KWD in 2021, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her back! With a strong foundation in landscape architecture since 2012 and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts, she brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to our team. As a licensed Landscape Architect in both Florida and Rhode Island, Amanda’s expertise shines through in every project. Her can-do attitude and willingness to jump in wherever needed make her not only a talented designer but also a valued team player who helps bring every vision to life.
Education
University of Massachusetts (Amherst) – Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Alec Russell
Landscape Designer
Alec joined the KWD Design Team in 2024 and hit the ground running! A SUNY graduate, he brings both academic knowledge and hands-on expertise, having spent several years in the field as an undergraduate. His deep understanding of horticulture, implementation, and the connection between thoughtful design and the enjoyment of outdoor spaces makes him a fantastic addition to our team. We’re excited to see the creativity and insight Alec brings to KWD!
Education
State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry – Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
Administrative Staff
Patty Stegman-Biron
Director of Operations & Business Development
Patty joined KWD in 2021, bringing with her a powerhouse combination of expertise in sales, marketing, operations, and management. With experience spanning both global corporations and small family-owned businesses, she possesses a unique ability to blend big-picture strategy with hands-on execution. In an impressively short time, Patty made a transformative impact on KWD’s operations, streamlining processes and driving growth. Her dedication, leadership, and strategic vision earned her a well-deserved promotion to Director of Operations & Business Development in 2022. Patty continues to be a driving force behind KWD’s success, shaping the future of our brand within the industry.
Education
Concordia College – Bachelor of Arts
Awards
Gold Coast Builders Association Silver Prism Award Winner – Marketing Professional of the Year 2024
Tesia Jean-Baptiste
Client Relations Coordinator
Tesia joined KWD in 2024 as our newest team member, bringing a vibrant energy and a keen eye for organization. With years of experience in schedule management, task prioritization, and exceptional customer service, she plays a crucial role in keeping our operations running smoothly. Tesia’s dedication ensures a seamless client experience and allows our award-winning design team to focus on what they do best: creating phenomenal outdoor spaces.
Education
Liberty University – Bachelor of Science
