Greener by Design, Inc. became our company name in late 2005 following 26 years as Mornhurst Gardens, Co. Inc. Mornhurst Gardens was founded in 1979 by Ann Roberts Levine, the mother of the present owner, Richard Heller. Ms. Levine had an interest in interior plants, and Mr. Heller expanded the business to include his area of interest, exterior urban landscapes, selling the interior plantscape part of the business at the beginning of 2009.

We are a family business in a broader sense in the way we develop relationships as the basis for delivering our services. We believe firmly that family comes first. As a company we are invested in creating a better world in the long term for our families, rather than making a quick buck. We build relationships with our clients based on meeting their needs. We take care of our employees, striving to obtain affordable health insurance, and by training and providing employment even during the slow months.

We are fully insured and, with weekly safety meetings and monthly safety trainings, consider safety of the utmost importance, winning safety awards during the past five years. We believe in doing the right job–and the job right, or not doing it. We believe in a no pesticide approach to land care that is based on Integrated Pest Management, natural controls, and selecting the appropriate plant for each location.

Maintaining a larger perspective than our daily maintenance and installations is very important at Greener by Design. The green roofing part of the business will have a direct impact on the health and future of New Yorkers for generations to come. We have also worked with charities like the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club, The American Hospital of Paris, The American Red Cross, and Phoenix House; and we support several non-profit organizations by providing pro bono services.
Through communication, planning, and continually learning, Greener by Design stands for the highest standard of quality, professionalism, and respect for environment, our clients and each other. We embrace new experiences and challenges so that we remain on the forefront of our industry and enrich our community, while receiving fair and equitable compensation for the value we deliver.