Loren Stewart

Loren came to CRLA through the usual route, having been raised in central Pennsylvania in a funeral home, earning a degree in mechanical engineering at Virginia Tech, working jobs that required government clearances - that she still can’t tell you about - and flipping houses.

The move to Key West from Pennsylvania included the use of a spreadsheet of criteria and geo-mapping the data onto a world map to figure out where to live. That was just the first crazy idea. Loren then quit her Engineering job without a plan!  But, less than 48 hours later, she had an interview and became part of the CRLA team. “The island provides,” she said. And it did. 

Today, she is creating her own oasis, beginning with renovating her own property, and extending her efforts to restore the island to its historic character, vibrant spirit, and endearing quirkiness.

At CRLA, Loren keeps projects moving, coordinates everything from clients to plants from design through installation. Basically, she makes sure things get done. She's especially excited to channel her inner landscape architect by combining her engineering background and renovation experience with her passion for design.

“I always thought I’d have to retire to live here,” she said. “Now I get to live and work here. I am such a lucky girl!”

Favorite Plant?

I love orchids - all types. 

I love how they can add a vibrant pop of color to a design or serve as the most delicate detail. They have such intricate blooms that can somehow feel both elegant and exotic without being ostentatious.

Most of all, I'm drawn to the way many orchids grow untethered to the earth, resting on the branches of trees, or embracing the palm trunks rather than rooted in soil. They flourish where they are placed and there is something deeply inspiring and resilient about that.