20 July 2026 – Joanna Waterfield Reflects on Her Journey at UBU and What’s Coming Next

Since joining UBU in November 2024, Director Joanna Waterfield has played an important role in the continued growth of the practice, bringing with her more than 20 years of experience in landscape architecture, urban design and project delivery.

Having previously held senior positions with leading landscape architecture practices, Joanna joined UBU to help oversee project delivery, support the growth of the team and contribute to the strategic direction of the business. Her experience spans residential, education, commercial, leisure and regeneration projects, delivering high-quality and sustainable landscape design from concept through to completion.

Since joining UBU, she has led and progressed a number of significant projects, including:

– Balgores Special School – a new 300-place SEN school in Romford

– Stour Road – providing 330 student bedrooms alongside affordable workspace and arts facilities in East London

– Horndean C of E Junior School – a new school with enhanced sports facilities in Waterlooville.

Alongside project delivery, she has helped strengthen internal processes, supported team development and contributed to the collaborative culture that sits at the heart of UBU.

Reflecting on her time with the practice so far, Joanna said:

“UBU has a unique place in the market as a landscape practice with more than 15 years’ experience working across a wide range of sectors. Our strength lies in creating places that support communities, whether that’s residential neighbourhoods, educational environments or healthcare settings.

What makes UBU special is the combination of creativity, technical excellence and collaboration. We bring clarity, expertise and insight to every commission, ensuring that our proposals are both inspiring and deliverable. We are commercially aware, understand the importance of delivering successful outcomes for our clients and take pride in creating places that have a positive impact on the people who use them.

It has been exciting to be part of UBU’s growth. I’m incredibly proud of our team, the quality of schemes we deliver and the relationships we’ve built with our clients. I’m looking forward to seeing where we are this time next year.”

Commenting on Joanna’s contribution to the business, Managing Director Mark Johnson said:

“Joanna has made a significant impact since joining UBU. Her experience, leadership and commercial understanding have strengthened our project delivery and our management team. She has played a key role in supporting our growth and we look forward to continuing that journey together.”

Looking ahead, Joanna sees significant opportunities for both the practice and the wider profession.

“As a business, we are focused on strengthening our position in the market while continuing to diversify our offer. The landscape architecture profession has a vital role to play in responding to climate change, biodiversity enhancement and the growing demand for sustainable, healthy places. We are committed to creating designs that meet those challenges while delivering practical and successful outcomes for our clients.”

As UBU continues to grow, Joanna’s experience, leadership and passion for landscape architecture will help shape the next chapter of UBU’s story.