Philosophy

Hortulus Animae is an award-winning landscape design studio creating expressive, ecologically grounded environments in the Hudson Valley and beyond. Each project is a site-specific response to the character of the land, designed to enhance beauty, resilience and authentic connection to place. Founded by Jean-Marc Flack in 2015, Hortulus Animae works holistically across all scales, integrating masterplanning, horticulture, materials, and craft into cohesive, fully considered landscapes that reflect an artistic sensibility and a reverence for the natural world.

Our Philosophy

• Seek the path of least resistance

• Take the time to observe, listen and respond sensitively to each site

• Every project is an opportunity to promote beauty and biodiversity

• Choose native plants whenever possible and no chemicals

• Design landscapes as rejuvenating retreats while also sustaining habitat for local wildlife and pollinators

Our Name & Icon

Hortulus Animae is the Latin title of a medieval prayerbook, which translates as Little Garden of the Soul or Jardin des Âmes, in French.

Gardening has always been a spiritual practice in my life and so I was very moved when I came across an image of this ancient wood carving, which perfectly illustrates my approach. I feel very strongly that we are not separate from nature but rather part of it, and my work and creativity emanate from a soulish place.

I am never happier than when I’m on a project site working with our carefully chosen plants. The culmination of all the design work is the day of planting, which is a highly charged and overwhelmingly joyful time.

— Jean-Marc Flack