ABOUT US
Growing up enjoying outdoor activities and enjoying nature, Renee Bevirt developed an interest in environmental issues at a young age. She was aware of the negative environmental impact humans imposed on our world as populations increased exponentially. Pollution of air, water and land continues to increase, more natural landscapes are destroyed, entire species are being lost and world climates are changing.
Early in her career, Renee had an internship with a nationally recognized architectural firm. She assisted with creating visual improvement plans for large processing facilities using opaque fencing and shrubs for screening along the parameters. Understanding the effects of climate change and habitat loss, Renee realized ancient hedge building techniques would provide better solutions. Replacing barbed wire and security fences with green thorny native plants would offer numerous environmental and social benefits for future generations.
Renee excelled at drafting and received her Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Michigan State University. She went on to perform freelance landscape designs alongside her regular employment. She has designed commercial and residential landscapes, worked as a kitchen and bath designer, and has been involved in commercial and residential remolding projects. Her eclectic design style employs an Asian influenced simplicity.
After completing a Master of Business Administration from Chaminade University of Honolulu, Renee became a licensed financial advisor. Becoming dissatisfied with the financial services industry, she stepped away after several years, starting and managing her own successful businesses.
Thornscapes was established to offer a fencing alternative that improves the environment for later generations. After much research, Renee came up with a native plant selection that met her strict qualifications for barrier hedges. By growing them locally, Renee could determine which plants would satisfy the requirements and thrive long term in Houston’s demanding climate. Many of the native species in her inventory are not well known, but all support native wildlife while providing attractive and protective barriers.
Renee is a member of the Native Plant Society of Texas and volunteers with several organizations including the Texas Wildlife Association. She also is a member of the Ranching and Wildlife Committee for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.