In Memory of John Haas, ASLA, APA, PLA
Principal of EDGE, Southeast Director
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of John Haas, Principal of EDGE and Southeast Director. For two decades, John anchored EDGE’s Nashville studio, shaping its direction, its culture, and its reputation across the region. John’s impact at EDGE was defined as much by how he led as by what he delivered. He brought insight and focus to complex challenges, set a high bar through his own example, and stayed closely connected to project teams while carrying the responsibilities of leadership. His steady presence helped define the Nashville studio’s identity.
John earned his Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from The Ohio State University in 1992, where he formed connections with fellow landscape architects who would later become his partners at EDGE. After joining the firm in 2005, he established EDGE’s Nashville office and grew it into a trusted practice. Over time, he strengthened the studio by developing talent, expanding the breadth of its portfolio, and building enduring relationships across the Southeast. He carried leadership responsibilities without stepping away from the day-to-day work that shapes quality.
Through 33 years of practice, John helped shape places that became part of Nashville’s civic life. Walk of Fame Park stands as one such landmark, welcoming residents and visitors by the thousands each year. His influence also extended through major initiatives that strengthened the public realm, including Gateway to Heritage Plaza, Nashville’s Downtown Beautification Plan, and the State Fairgrounds Master Plan.
John advanced neighborhoods across the region through single-family, multifamily, and mixed-use communities grounded in long-term livability. He believed good planning starts with everyday life, and he tested decisions against the experiences of the people who would live with them. That mindset carried into projects such as Novel Harpeth Heights, Nexus Tennessee, and Indian Lake Village, and it also informed campus environments that support the next generation, including work at Middle Tennessee State University, Meharry Medical College, and Tennessee State University.
His portfolio reflected a strong sense of responsibility to people facing real challenges. John contributed to projects that support stability and recovery, including Strobel House Permanent Supportive Housing and Shelby Recovery Housing & Samaritan Recovery Community. He valued housing that reinforces dignity and long-term support, and exemplified the power of planning and design to meaningfully improve outcomes for individuals and communities.
When asked how he wanted to be remembered, John said he hoped to leave behind outdoor spaces and communities that people enjoy and are proud to be a part of. He honored that passion through the places he helped shape and the relationships he built. John placed great importance on family, and it remained central to his life. He brought that same loyalty to his partners and colleagues. He showed respect through accountability and follow-through, holding himself to the same expectations he asked of others. He supported others by making time, offering guidance, and stepping in when it mattered. John’s passing is deeply felt across EDGE. We will remember his leadership, his loyalty, his discipline, and the care he brought to the profession. We will honor his legacy through the work he built, the projects he led across the Southeast, and the standards he taught us to uphold. We extend our heartfelt condolences to John’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.