When you speak with Kathy Burczak, Abonmarche’s Senior Landscape Architect, one thing becomes clear: she was born for this work. With more than 32 years at Abonmarche and a career shaped by a reverence for nature and history, Kathy has helped bring to life cherished public spaces across Michigan and Indiana.
Returning Home, Finding Purpose
Kathy’s journey began in Northwest Indiana. After gaining valuable early experience and brief stint in Vermont she moved to South West Michigan and began her work with Abonmarche. “I’ve been with Abonmarche for over 32 years,” she says. “I came back to the area because it’s home.” Kathy’s work embraces a naturalistic design aesthetic—spaces that appear to have been shaped by nature itself. She attributes this approach to the influence of legendary landscape architect Jens Jensen. “Early in my career, I worked on parks originally designed by Jensen. He probably influenced my design philosophy more than anyone else.”
Sustainability with Soul
Sustainability is woven into every element of Kathy’s work. From the reuse of materials to intentional plant selection, she designs with both longevity and ecology in mind. But for Kathy, sustainability is about more than environmental stewardship—it’s about creating spaces that people love, use, and return to time and again.
Designing for Community
When asked to name a favorite project, Kathy finds it difficult to choose just one. “There are several that come to mind,” she says. Among them:
- Allegan Riverfront, where a former parking lot was transformed into a vibrant destination complete with a music venue, splash pad, and public gathering spaces.
- New Buffalo Streetscape, a reimagining of downtown that revitalized the community’s public realm.
- Jean Klock Park, where she helped restore elements of Jens Jensen’s original design while incorporating modern amenities.
- Harbor Shores, including her current work on the Wee Golf Course, designed as a short course for golfers of all ages.
Challenges and Triumphs
Designing public spaces often comes with challenges—especially budgetary constraints. “Site elements are often the first to go,” Kathy notes. Yet she remains committed to balancing aesthetics, function, and sustainability. Her guiding principle? “Designs should never feel forced—they should feel like they’ve always belonged.”
A Fun Twist on the Journey
One of the more unexpected moments in Kathy’s story? “I turned down a full-paid scholarship to cosmetology school,” she laughs. “My English teacher probably convinced me it wasn’t the right path—likely after seeing my hair!”
Kathy’s passion, experience, and connection to place have left an enduring legacy—not only at Abonmarche, but in the communities she’s helped shape. Her work continues to evolve and inspire, just like the spaces she so thoughtfully brings to life.
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