We engage people with the outdoors by designing spaces that are ecologically diverse, culturally sensitive, and inherently interactive.
From master planning through construction and long-term land management, our extensive experience and creativity transforms outdoor spaces. We build authentic, vibrant, and diverse landscapes for people to enjoy. This brings communities together and nurtures the land.
We work with native plants and materials as well as the specific characteristics of a site. Our approach responds to the larger environmental challenges we face with climate change, water quality and waste management.
We collaborate with people and institutions to build community through working with the land. Our methods are inclusive and effective in bringing stakeholders to a shared vision. We have strong relationships with other professionals—architects, engineers, ecologists, and others. Together we can create a seamless project experience for you. Founded in 2010 in Durham, NC, our firm designs and builds projects of all sizes.
We have developed intimate urban courtyards and large-tract institutional land use plans. We'd love to work with you to help you achieve your vision.
Design Team
Katherine Gill, PLA, ASLA
Principal and Co-owner
Katherine has more than 18 years working as a landscape architect and project developer. In 2005, she earned her Masters in Landscape Architecture at North Carolina State University, College of Design. After working with the Natural Learning Initiative and another local landscape architecture firm for five years, Katherine started her own firm serving institutional, residential, and commercial clients. In 2010, she and Jonah combined to create Tributary Land Design + Build.
When not working, you are likely to find Katherine out and about in Durham biking, running, hiking, gardening, and eating Durham's great food.
Education and Certifications
Professional Landscape Architect, 2011, #1663
LEED certification 2008
MLA, North Carolina State University, 2005
BA, Bowdoin College, 1995
Highest Honors in German
Garrison Taylor
Design Associate
Garrison Taylor graduated from the University of Georgia’s College of Environment and Design with a Masters in Landscape Architecture. As a graduate student she worked at the Carl Vinson Institute of Government’s Spectrum Studio, working with small municipalities throughout Georgia on visioning and strategic planning. For this work she was awarded Graduate Student Employee of the Year by the University of Georgia.
When Garrison is not at work she can be found making things herself that would probably be cheaper and easier to just buy.
Education and Certifications
BFA, University of Georgia, 2017
MLA, University of Georgia, 2024
Build Team
Jonah Roberts,
Licensed Landscape Contractor
Co-owner and Build Lead
Growing up in a rural community in Missouri, Jonah spent a great deal of time playing outside. His love for the Ozark river ways and forests changed him.
After college, he felt drawn to use natural materials to create beautiful spaces. Jonah started and successfully ran his own design and build company for ten years. He then found a like-minded and complementary partner in Katherine. Together they created Tributary Land Design + Build in 2010.
Jonah seeks unique projects that offer the chance to impact the people who will use and enjoy the space. He believes that even small projects can incorporate smart permaculture ideas.
When not working, you'll likely find Jonah outside throughout the Triangle with his wife Sarah and his two kids, Miles and Theo.
Education and Certifications
Licensed Landscape Contractor #0540
Certified Plant Professional
Certified Stormwater BMP Maintenance and Inspection ProfessionalResidential Raingarden Certification
Eric Roberts, Build Team
Certified Stormwater BMP Maintenance and Inspection
Marco Iannello, Build Team
Land Care Team
Taylor Hatfield
Land Care Manager
At Tributary Taylor is the Land Care manager and a landscape designer. She recently graduated from North Carolina State University, where she earned a Master’s of Horticultural Science by contributing to the field of regenerative landscape design. Her designs mirror natural ecosystems and integrate a deep understanding of human behaviors and patterns.
Taylor grew up in NC and no matter how far she travels, she always comes home to the Piedmont. She enjoys a life full of family, friends, and pets. Her dog Maja often joins her on adventures, which can include rock climbing, fire spinning, and painting.
Education and Certifications
Master’s of Horticultural Sciences, NCSU
Bachelor’s of Biology, NCSU
Permaculture Design Certified, Big Island Farms, Hawaii
