Why did you leave Astorino to start New Dawn Garden Design?
A. The work for fathom included a lot of travel. My children are now 4 and 6, so I wanted to create a more balanced life and leave the big firm environment. I’m doing primarily residential gardens but will consult on larger commercial gardens, too. My designs include garden furniture, plants and accessories. I’m paying much closer attention to how a design can meet the client on a more emotional level as opposed to just being beautiful and functional. My greatest reward is for a client to get what they envisioned and to feel how they wanted to feel in their space. Q. Was it tough to leave the firm you essentially grew up in? A. It was a difficult decision. My father founded it in 1972. He is the chairman. His brother, Dennis Astorino, is chief executive and president, architecture/engineering; and my brother, Louis P. Astorino, is chief executive, design/build. Striking out on your own is always a risk. But it was the right time in my life. I had the business and marketing experience.
