Meet Daniella | Founder & Designer, 3o5 Gardens

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daniella and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daniella, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my business because I saw a need for landscapes that go beyond appearance — spaces that work with nature, not against it. Growing up in Miami, I was surrounded by lush tropical beauty, but also witnessed how quickly native ecosystems were being replaced by sterile, ornamental landscapes. I wanted to break away from the industry’s reliance on brightly colored, non-native plants that offer nothing to our pollinators, the constant use of chemical sprays, synthetic fertilizers, and the overwatered, herbicide-treated lawns that dominate so much of our environment. With 3o5 Gardens, my vision is to restore a connection between people and place — using native plants, edible gardens, and regenerative practices that heal the soil, support wildlife, and empower communities to grow with intention. At 3o5 Gardens, we also spend time educating our clients about new approaches to caring for their landscapes — helping them understand how to shift toward more resilient, sustainable, and ecologically responsible spaces.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
At 3o5 Gardens, our work is rooted in restoring a connection between people and the land — creating outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful, but functional, ecological, and deeply intentional. We specialize in native and edible landscape design, and we prioritize low-maintenance, regenerative practices that work with South Florida’s climate and ecosystem rather than against it. What sets us apart is that we’re not just selling a look — we’re offering a mindset shift. We spend time educating our clients on the value of native plants, the importance of pollinator support, and new ways to care for their landscape without relying on chemicals, synthetic fertilizers, or excessive irrigation.

My husband, Carlos Firpi Nieves, and I both studied Landscape Architecture, and we were fortunate to go through a program that was truly innovative and thought-provoking. It opened our minds to the power of design — but once out in the real world, I found myself in constant internal conflict. I was always at odds with bosses and developers who pushed destructive landscape practices — prioritizing profit over ecology, and aesthetics over long-term impact. That tension is what ultimately pushed me to start 3o5 Gardens.

I wanted to build something different — a business where healing the land is at the center of every project. Instead of cookie-cutter lawns and ornamental plants that do little for our environment, we create spaces that nourish the soil, support biodiversity, and reflect the unique identity of the place and the people who live there. A big part of our approach is staying local — sourcing plants and materials as close to home as possible. Supporting local growers and reducing transportation not only strengthens our community, it’s also a powerful sustainability strategy that helps cut down on our carbon footprint.

It hasn’t always been easy. Starting a business — especially while raising two under two — comes with real challenges. But I kept leaning into my “why”: to restore, to reconnect, and to resist the destruction happening all around us. One of the most pivotal moments was when Carlos (husband) left his successful position at a top firm to join me at 3o5 Gardens. His support, talent, and vision helped take everything to the next level.

What I want the world to know is that sustainability isn’t just a trend — it’s an obligation. Our gardens can be spaces of healing, nourishment, and connection. Through 3o5 Gardens, we’re not just designing yards — we’re helping people reimagine their relationship with nature, one garden at a time.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Right now, my favorite spot in Miami is the beach at Matheson Hammock.
It’s been such a peaceful escape this summer — especially on those hot days when the kids need to get outside and we all need a break from the heat. It’s so much closer and more convenient than heading out to Miami Beach, which makes it an easy go-to spot for us. The kids love playing in the sand and exploring the shoreline — spotting little fish and crabs, splashing around, and just being free.

As a landscape designer, I also get a lot of inspiration from the area. The landscape around the restaurant is beautiful, with classic South Florida charm — native beach plants growing right up through the oolitic limestone, everything weathered and natural, but thoughtfully placed. It’s a great reminder of how local materials and native ecology can shape a space with authenticity and soul.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to my husband, Carlos Firpi Nieves, for taking a huge leap of faith — leaving the corporate world and a successful position at a top firm to join us full-time at 3o5 Gardens. His support, energy, and experience have brought so much to our work, and I truly couldn’t do this without him. Beyond the design side, he’s also taken the lead on marketing and helped expand our vision in meaningful ways.

Together, we’re now not only creating regenerative landscapes, but also beginning to bring in local produce — mango, lychee, avocado — connecting our clients to seasonal, homegrown abundance. Carlos brings the muscle, the strategy, and a fresh perspective that helps keep us moving forward. We’re building more than gardens — we’re building a movement rooted in people, place, and ecology.

Website: https://www.3o5gardes.com

Instagram: 3o5gardens

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Image Credits
3o5 Gardens LLC