Meet Our Team
Fifty Combined Years Experience
Meet our dedicated team of local professionals, each bringing a wealth of expertise and a shared passion for Woodstock's vibrant community to the heart of this project. Together, they are the driving force behind our vision for thoughtful development and sustainable design
Brad Will AiA
Principal Architect at Ashokan Architecture
Brad Will is a locally renowned architect, steering Ashokan Architecture with a fusion of innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. Well-known in Woodstock for his involvement in many local projects over the years, Brad’s designs transcend mere structures, creating spaces that resonate with both residents and the landscape.
His work at Woodstock Gardens exemplifies his commitment to beauty, accessibility, and harmony with the environment. With a rich portfolio reflecting excellence and versatility, Brad’s contributions to the community and his role in local architecture are a testament to his skill and vision.
Lisa Taranto
Horticultural Expert & Garden Designer
With a passion that transcends the boundaries of traditional gardening, Lisa Taranto stands as a beacon of creativity, sustainability, and harmony in the world of horticulture. With over 30 years of experience, her hands have shaped not just landscapes but ecosystems, where every plant, animal, and human can find solace and connection.
Lisa’s career has been marked by a commitment to organic growth, thoughtful design, and a profound respect for nature’s wisdom. Her experience includes nearly a decade directing the gardens and horticultural programs at Menla Mountain Retreat in Phoenicia, NY, where her efforts have transformed spaces into thriving havens of biodiversity and beauty.
A dedicated educator, advocate, and artist, Lisa’s approach to gardening transcends the mere aesthetic. She engages with the soil, the seeds, the climate, and the local fauna to create spaces that are alive, dynamic, and harmonious. Her expertise in removing invasive species, creating pathways that meander naturally, and building gardens that resonate with all visitors set her apart in her field. At Woodstock Gardens, Lisa’s vision has been instrumental in crafting gardens that are not just pleasing to the eye but nurturing to the soul. Her designs are intricate, yet they flow with an ease that makes them feel as though they’ve always been a part of the landscape. Through her [personal website](https://www.lisataranto.com/), Lisa continues to share her journey, philosophy, and insights, offering a glimpse into the mind of a horticulturist who sees gardens not just as places but as living experiences. Joining the Woodstock Gardens team, Lisa brings her unique blend of creativity, knowledge, and passion, promising gardens that will be the heartbeat of our sanctuary, where every visitor can find a moment of peace, a spark of inspiration, and a touch of nature’s timeless beauty.
Sam Arnstein
Community-Engaged Project Owner-Manager
Woodstock has been a part of Sam Arnstein’s life since before he was born. Both his parents being lifelong lovers of Woodstock, they brought Sam here first when he was just 2 months old. Woodstock is a haven that he considers his second home. Sam has immersed himself in Woodstock’s vibrant culture, nature, and community spirit through his entire life.
As a lifelong devotee to the town, Sam’s annual pilgrimages have been filled with hikes up Overlook Mountain, refreshing dips in the Sawkill, treasure hunts at the flea market, and joyous moments in the drum circles that pulse at the heart of Woodstock. His connection to the town is more than just recreational; it’s a profound bond that resonates with his very soul.
A lover of music and art, Sam is a multi-instrumentalist who finds joy in creating and appreciating the beauty that surrounds him. His rescue dog, Jackson, is a constant companion on his journeys, embodying the peaceful spirit that Sam carries with him. Now, Sam is embarking on a unique journey with Woodstock Gardens, a project that transcends mere construction and taps into the essence of art. With a family history in construction, Sam brings experience and vision to this endeavor. But Woodstock Gardens is more than a project; it’s a dream, a vision, a way to give back to the town that has given him so much. Woodstock Gardens is not just a boutique hotel; it’s a canvas where art, nature, and community come together. Sam’s passion for Woodstock, his love for music, animals, and art, all converge in this heartfelt project. His peaceful journey with Woodstock Gardens aims to enhance the beauty of Woodstock and create a space that resonates with the town’s unique spirit. Sam’s commitment to Woodstock Gardens reflects his deep love for Woodstock and a desire to contribute positively to a place that has shaped him in so many ways. It’s more than a development; it’s a love letter to Woodstock, an art project, a garden, a melody that echoes the timeless charm of this remarkable town.
