Steve Kurtz, CEO | Founder

I am a founder of Nature’s Rhythm Design Studio, a landscape design firm dedicated to creating distinctive, functional, and beautiful outdoor spaces. I hold both an undergraduate and a master’s degree in Landscape Architecture from Clemson University, where I developed a deep understanding of design principles, environmental stewardship, and project management.

After completing my education, I gained valuable experience at a diverse landscape architecture firm in Atlanta, where I honed my skills in design and collaboration. I then moved to Greenville, where I broadened my expertise by working in construction management, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the project lifecycle and the intricate details that bring designs to life.

With a passion for landscape design, I am driven by the opportunity to create spaces that not only enhance the beauty of a property but also reflect the unique needs and aspirations of each client. My multicultural background—having parents from Germany and Mexico—has profoundly influenced my approach to design, enriching my perspective through exposure to a variety of cultures and aesthetics. This diversity allows me to draw on a broad spectrum of styles, traditions, and environments. Additionally, being fluent in both Spanish and German enhances my ability to connect with a wide range of clients and collaborate across cultural boundaries.

My goal is to form lasting relationships with clients, designing landscapes that make their properties feel truly special. I look forward to bringing my experience and dedication to your project, turning your vision into reality.

Jesse Conway, COO | Founder

I was born and raised in the Upstate of South Carolina and spent much of my youth on my grandmother's horse boarding farm in Sugar Tit. After graduating from Hillcrest High School in 2000, I earned a degree in physical education with a concentration in exercise science from the College of Charleston.

My interest in landscape design began at Hyam’s Garden Center in James Island, SC, where I worked under George Hyam, a former Clemson football player. There, I learned to appreciate plants not just as background but as integral elements of design. Recognizing a boxwood or a southern live oak transformed my perception of the natural world. Helping customers design their flower beds from scratch gave me my first taste of planting design and sparked my passion for landscaping.

In 2007, I joined the U.S. Army, where I developed a deeper appreciation for the power of plants to uplift and inspire, even in difficult circumstances. The sight of dogwood blooms during basic training at Fort Knox became a symbol of beauty and hope for me and those around me. This experience reinforced my belief in the transformative power of nature.

After a decade of service, I was medically retired and decided to pursue a new path. I enrolled in Clemson University’s landscape architecture program, drawing on my early experiences at Hyam’s. I graduated in 2021 with the skills and knowledge to design functional and beautiful landscapes. During this time, my wife built a thriving real estate career, and I started a real estate photography and videography business while supporting my family.

Today, I bring my diverse background and passion for design to clients, offering solutions tailored to their needs. Whether addressing drainage issues, creating planting plans, or designing master plans for equestrian farms, I’m dedicated to delivering designs that are both practical and inspired.

Meet the Team

  • Summer Kurtz

    OFFICE MANAGER