Applied Sciences Bolsters Urban Design Capacity with Recent Acquisition

We are pleased to announce the acquisition of Wide Open Office, a landscape architecture, urban design and community development firm based in Tampa, Florida. The acquisition expands the line of services Applied Sciences offers to its clients, allowing for a more holistic approach to project planning and implementation and better integration of communities and the environment.

“The acquisition of Wide Open Office greatly complements Applied Sciences’ on-going climate and resiliency assessments, multi-use facilities planning, and green infrastructure offerings to our clients,” said Elie Araj, PE, President of Applied Sciences. “The combined company brings creative, informed, and tested solutions to complex landscape, urban, and community design challenges.”

Brian Cook, a registered landscape architect and principal at Wide Open Office, was named Director of Urban Design at Applied Sciences, based in the Tampa office. With more than 15 years’ experience as a consultant and educator, Brian has worked on significant public and private projects throughout the United States, including community and campus design, municipal buildings, streets and public spaces. His recent work has focused on coastal resiliency, sea-level rise, strategies for community engagement, and methods for incorporating landscape systems in urban development.

“I have always enjoyed working with the staff at Applied Sciences, and I am looking forward to collaborating more closely, building on the tremendous momentum we have established,” Cook said.

Brian Cook, Director of Urban Design