Prairie Designs LLC was founded in 2008 by Jon Kinder and Dave Williams. Jon and Dave received master's degrees in Environmental Science from Texas Christian University, where their research focused on adapting native prairie ecosystems to the green roof environment.

We offer a range of drought tolerant green roof systems to accommodate many different types of roofs. Our lightweight, extensive system is ideal for retrofitting existing buildings, while our deep-soiled, intensive system offers maximum energy savings and ecological benefit. In addition, we offer professional consulting as well as our patent-pending Roof Rocks System that maximizes plant growth potential on living roofs by minimizing water loss from evaporation. See our products&services page for more information.

Most commercial green roofs in the US are derivatives of popular European green roofing systems, which have proven unsuccessful in hot and arid climates without excessive irrigation and maintenance. In contrast, Prairie Designs' systems are based on ecosystems from the Southwestern United States, giving them a competitive edge in drought-prone areas.

Our systems can either be allowed to go dormant in times of drought or be kept active and growing all summer with minimal irrigation. Our systems utilize native plants, and boast a level of resiliency not attainable by other green roof providers. Because of this remarkable seasonality, we often use the term "living" roof instead of "green" roof to describe them.

Jon and Dave’s research on prairie ecosystems will be showcased at the new headquarters for the Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT). The building will feature a green roof inspired by their research on bringing living roof systems to semi-arid climates. Please see our projects page for more information on Prairie Designs' involvement with BRIT.