This month NCASLA is spotlighting Kate Ancaya, Founding Partner and Design Principal at Living Roofs, Inc. Kate is an NCASLA Member located in Asheville, NC.
Living Roofs, Inc. was founded in 2006 and is an award-winning construction and design company specializing in vegetated roofs and landscape-on-structure projects. They serve the Southeast and have established themselves as the first company in the region dedicated to vegetated roofs and landscape-on-structure projects.
What inspired you to start a career in landscape architecture?
My career path has been anything but linear, which I think reflects the fluid nature of many people's experiences. I spent my childhood outside, roaming forests, creeks, and farmland and surrounded by nature and plants, which shaped a deep connection to my surroundings. This early and deep connection to the environment is a fundamental part of who I am, and when I eventually stumbled upon landscape architecture while preparing for graduate school in archaeology, it was a moment of clarity and, in many ways, a relief. It felt like finding my way home – it was a natural fit. Landscape architecture has allowed me to continue exploring my curiosity about the relationship between people and their environments and create spaces that enrich human and non-human communities.
What is a project you are most proud of and why?
What I’m most proud of isn’t tied to a single project but rather a defining shift we made in 2016 in how we approached design and plant selection. Before that, much of our work followed the European model of thin, non-irrigated systems dominated by succulents and sedums. But we were underwhelmed with and weren’t satisfied with these singular options. We decided to move boldly toward approaches that embraced biodiversity, the restoration of native plant communities, the creation of multi-species habitats, and push the limits on what’s possible in on-structure landscapes in our region. This shift wasn’t just about aesthetics or functionality—it was a comprehensive rethinking of our design approach. The results were immediate: improved stormwater performance, vibrant and diverse ecosystems, and stunning meadows that brought life and beauty into unexpected spaces - rooftops. It took courage to step into uncharted territory and to take informed risks, but we trusted in our team’s deep regional expertise and our shared vision for a more beautiful and impactful approach. That decision remains a defining moment, and its influence continues to shape our projects today
What inspired you to found your company Living Roofs, Inc?
My husband, Emilio, and I created the company to explore the potential of green roofs as a way to bring nature into cities and increase resilience in the Southeast region. We were driven to do something different and use our love and knowledge of plants, design, construction, and our commitment to the environment. Over the years, we've tested new systems, experimented with entirely new approaches in the region, and grown our company, LRI, into one with an impactful regional reach. This journey has allowed us to combine creativity with purpose, and it's been incredibly fulfilling to see our ideas transform into impactful projects.
What are some of the benefits of buildings having green roofs?
Vegetated roofs are powerful tools for building resilience and transforming barren, overlooked spaces into natural infrastructure. Green roofs tackle specific climate challenges in our region by reducing rooftop temperatures to combat the urban heat island effect, improving diminished air quality, and amplifying plant and invertebrate biodiversity. They also play a crucial role in stormwater management by significantly reducing rainwater runoff and peak flow, which protects our waterways and lowers infrastructure construction and maintenance costs. Beyond these environmental benefits, green roofs provide a biophilic boost that enhances the health and well-being of people who see or interact with them.
Are there any challenges you have faced being a woman in landscape architecture?
There have certainly been times when I’ve had to strongly assert myself and my ideas to ensure they were heard. It’s a challenge many women in the field can relate to. However, it’s been incredibly rewarding to channel those experiences into helping create a company where everyone’s contributions are truly valued and one that prioritizes collaboration, inclusivity, and respect— something I’m deeply proud of.
What is something you enjoy to do in your free time?
I love being outside as much as possible – winter, spring, summer, and fall. I love it all. Exploring the forests of WNC is an endless journey of awe, peace, renewal. And the plants! All the plants.
What do you enjoy about being a member of NC ASLA?
It’s an opportunity to stay connected with the landscape architecture industry, even though I have taken an atypical path in my career. I love seeing the incredible and important work of so many members, as well as my classmates from graduate school. Their creativity, leadership, and dedication are deeply inspiring and serve as a constant reminder of the powerful impact our field can have.