ABOUT TERRA NIWA
About Us
A garden studio rooted in tradition, precision, and living systems.
Verde Niwa is a landscape and garden design studio specializing in private estates, blending the scientific principles of horticulture with the formal beauty of Italian Renaissance gardens and the restraint of Japanese Zen landscapes.
Our Philosophy
We believe gardens should be both intellectually grounded and emotionally resonant.
Each project is approached as a living system—shaped by ecology, climate, and time—while guided by proportion, balance, and clarity.
Design for Private Estates
We work closely with clients to create estate-scale gardens that complement architecture, landform, and lifestyle. Our process is collaborative and considered, resulting in landscapes that feel personal, timeless, and quietly luxurious.
Who We Are
John Scaglione is the lead designer and horticultural voice behind Verde Niwa. His work is grounded in a deep respect for plants, seasonal change, and the long-term life of gardens. Having studied and spent time in Italy and Japan, and growing up in New York, John draws from diverse cultural traditions to shape landscapes that balance structure with restraint. His approach blends horticultural science with formal design principles, resulting in gardens that are thoughtful, site-responsive, and enduring. Through close attention to planting, proportion, and daily care, John ensures that each garden matures with clarity and intention over time.
Peyton Meyers leads the strategic and business direction of Verde Niwa, overseeing operations, client relations, and long-term growth. With an education shaped by experiences in Italy and California, she brings a global perspective to how the studio functions and evolves. Her work bridges creative vision with structure—ensuring that each project is supported by thoughtful planning, clear communication, and a seamless client experience. Peyton plays a key role in translating design intent into sustainable, well-executed practice, allowing the studio’s work to remain both refined and resilient.
Process
How We Work
Horticulture
Plant selection, soil health, seasonal change, and long-term stewardship guide every design decision, ensuring gardens mature gracefully rather than simply impress at installation.
Design
Practice
Verde Niwa operates internationally, drawing influence from Italy, Japan, and the United States, with projects tailored to their cultural and environmental contexts.
We create estate-scale gardens that complement architecture, landform, and lifestyle. Our process is collaborative and considered, resulting in landscapes that feel personal, timeless, and quietly luxurious.