Susan Saarinen is an accomplished landscape architect, designer, and creative professional whose work reflects a lifelong connection to architecture, design, and the built environment. As the daughter of renowned Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, Susan grew up immersed in one of the most influential architectural legacies of the twentieth century. Raised at Cranbrook in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, she developed an early appreciation for design, creativity, and craftsmanship before ultimately pursuing her own path within landscape architecture. Susan later earned a Certificate in Landscape Design from Radcliffe College and a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Colorado Boulder, where she refined her passion for creating thoughtful and environmentally connected spaces.

Throughout her career, Susan has combined artistic sensibility with practical landscape design expertise, building a reputation for creating landscapes that balance natural materials, sustainability, and human experience. As the owner of Saarinen Landscape Architecture, she has worked on a range of commercial, municipal, and residential landscape projects, overseeing project management, contractor coordination, and design implementation. Her work reflects a deep understanding of how landscapes can complement architecture while fostering a stronger connection between people and the natural environment. Susan’s approach is shaped not only by her professional training, but also by the architectural heritage and design philosophy that surrounded her throughout her life.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Susan is recognized for preserving and sharing the legacy of the Saarinen family’s contributions to modern architecture and design. She has participated in architectural lectures, interviews, and public discussions reflecting on the work and influence of her father and grandfather, architect Eliel Saarinen. Through her own career and public engagement, Susan continues to advocate for design that is both timeless and human-centered. Her unique perspective -bridging architecture, landscape, art, and family legacy- has made her a respected voice within the design community.