Ted R. Cook

Ted R. Cook serves as a Teaching Specialist and Interim Program Director for the Landscape Architecture Program within the School of Planning, Design and Construction at Michigan State University. With over 30 years of professional experience—including international work across 8 countries in Asia and Europe—he integrates global design perspectives into academic instruction while maintaining an active private practice focused on urban redevelopment.

His academic credentials include:

• Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Michigan State University
• Master of Science in Environmental Design from Michigan State University

Research emphasizes sustainable landscape innovation through brownfield rehabilitation, redevelopment of underutilized sites, and environmental preservation. He pioneers emerging technologies to create virtual design environments that solve complex challenges across diverse ecosystems—from desert climates to tropical regions—accelerating design processes through digital solutions.

Cook advises the MSU Student Chapter of Landscape Architecture and liaises with the Landscape Architecture Alumni Board. His professional trajectory spans Detroit redevelopment projects focused on historically underserved communities, a 22-year U.S. Air Force career as Munitions Systems Specialist and Military Technology Instructor, and international site development across 4 U.S. states and 2 countries.