What does a great garden look and feel like to you?
Our world is not perfect, and there is charm and grace to be found in all imperfection. Maybe too overwhelmed to see beyond it? Need a sanctuary or just need to grow some healthy greens, peaceful whites, or energizing colors?
Your healthy getaway can be right outside your door.
ABOUT URBAN FOREST AND GARDEN
Urban Forest Illinois and Garden in Lake Forest, Illinois, was founded by Eileen Urban Kolasa — a garden professional known to the locals as “Bunny.” After retiring from a career in Healthcare Risk Management in 2023, Bunny turned her lifelong passion for gardening into a purpose-driven practice.
Raised in the city of Chicago in a third generation retail flower business and shaped by summers spent on Wisconsin farms, she has always been deeply connected to what grows, thrives and survives. Gardening has never been work for her — it’s a way of life.
With decades of trial and error experience in growing her own vegetables, fruits, herbs, and perennials across Northern Illinois and Mid-Eastern Wisconsin, Bunny combines practical knowledge with thoughtful design. In addition to being a Registered Nurse, she is formally trained through the University of Illinois Master Gardener program. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was inspired by the historical Victory Garden movement, often thought about food security concerns, and growing safe, nutrient-dense food while improving outdoor spaces, supporting our environment, and lessening chemical and pesticide exposure.
Urban Forest and Garden exists to help people reconnect with nature, make a difference in their wellness and create outdoor spaces that truly reflect how they live and nourish their mind and body.
COACHING & EDUCATION
WHY A GARDEN COACH?
If you want a garden that truly works for your space—but feel stuck or unsure of where to start—a Garden Coach can help. Think of it as having a designer, teacher, and guide all in one, helping you create an outdoor space that brings beauty, purpose, and inspiration. This coach paves a meaningful garden connection.
HOW IT WORKS
We start with a conversation, followed by a one-hour on-site consultation at your home. You’ll receive clear guidance, practical recommendations, and a written summary you can use to move forward—whether you DIY, work with a landscaper, or continue with coaching support.
Services we offer:
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On-site* yard and garden consultations
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Garden coaching and continuing education
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Wellness Gardening (Prebiotic, Anti-inflammatory)
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Succession Gardening
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Edible and flower garden design
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Raspberry and fruit plant care
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Native gardening
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Collaboration with your landscapers
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Potager gardening
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Container gardening
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Composting education, including vermiculture
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Safe garden pest management
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Pollinator attraction and care
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Environmental assessment including soil, light, neighboring roots and drainage
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Hourly, weekly, monthly or seasonal options**
Every project is designed to work with your space, your interests and abilities, and the natural rhythms of your environment.
*Area of Service restricted to within 30 mile radius of Lake Forest, Illinois. Additional time and mileage charges will apply for longer distances.
**Venmo or Zelle accepted
Philosophy
Our philosophy is to create spaces that not only look beautiful but serve a meaningful purpose in enhancing your lifestyle.
We believe in sustainable practices, innovation, and client-centric design approaches to deliver exceptional garden solutions.
GALLERY
Explore a collection of gardens, growing spaces, and outdoor moments that reflect care, creativity, and connection with nature.
READY TO GROW
SOMETHING MEANINGFUL?
Whether you’re starting fresh or refining an existing space, Urban Forest and Garden is here to help bring your vision to life.
