In the heart of Bucks County, two sibling entrepreneurs are helping to redefine their hometown, each in their own unique way. Dan Burt, the visionary behind Roots Landscape Inc., and Lauren Ziel, the dynamic force driving Barre3 Newtown, both built successful businesses. Then their paths intersected when they joined forces to breathe new life into a historic home on E. Washington Ave., creating a stunning testament to their shared roots and individual passions.
Dan Burt, a Bucks County native and 1991 Council Rock graduate, founded Roots Landscape Inc. seven years ago to create beautiful, timeless outdoor spaces. A 1995 graduate of Penn State’s Landscape Contracting program, Dan began his career with Realty Landscaping in Wrightstown, then with the Brickman Group, designing landscapes for large corporate sites throughout the Delaware Valley. He later became a partner in a Philadelphia design-build firm, overseeing projects like the Urban Outfitters corporate headquarters.
In 2011, Dan became the director of landscape services for Terrain/Urban Outfitters, growing the division into a leading design-build firm. By 2016, he acquired and rebranded it as Roots Landscape Inc., building on his reputation for quality and innovative design.
Roots Landscape Inc. is known for effortless luxury, where landscapes blend seamlessly into
their surroundings. The company has won multiple accolades. "We want our clients to feel completely at ease, treated fairly, and excited about their unique outdoor spaces," Dan emphasizes.
Just last year, Dan expanded Roots Landscape Inc. by opening a second office in Newtown.
"It’s all about roots, literally and figuratively. As Roots grew, I wanted a second home office
closer to my actual home. Bucks County's convenient location and growing population make it the perfect place for us to thrive," Dan explains.
The expansion also allows Dan to focus on expanding his design and build work but also growing the fine gardening department, offering services from maintenance to custom installations, like the acclaimed seasonal planter boxes at barre3 Newtown.
Dan's sister, Lauren Ziel, brought barre3 to Newtown in 2013, inspired by her passion for the
workout's blend of strength, cardio and mindfulness. "barre3 empowers me as a woman to be a mom, wife and entrepreneur. Sharing it with the Newtown community is the ultimate reward," Lauren says.
In 2020, Lauren purchased the historic home on E. Washington Ave., a property with great bones but in need of extensive renovation. Dan eagerly took on the challenge of redesigning the exterior. "The main goals were to redesign the landscape, install off-street parking, add a pool, and create a large outdoor patio with a fire pit and seating area," Dan recalls.
Dan preserved and repurposed original elements, such as cast-away stones for stepping stones and two beautiful trees. The result is a transformation that maintains the home's historic charm while adding modern amenities.
"It looks as if it has stood that way since its installation in 1888," Dan proudly notes.
Working together on this project strengthened the sibling bond between Dan and Lauren. "This
isn't the first property Dan has designed for me, but it's the one we were most excited about,"
Lauren shares.
The project presented challenges, including working within a small footprint and navigating local code enforcement. "But we're always laughing and having a good time. It was a work of art from the heart," Lauren adds.
The Newtown community has embraced the renovated historic home, appreciating its restored
glory.
As Roots Landscape Inc. and barre3 Newtown grow, the siblings remain committed to their
Bucks County anchor. Lauren's studio offers a unique workout experience that empowers clients,
while Dan's landscape designs enhance the beauty of Bucks County. Together, they enjoy helping to enhance Newtown, one day of hard work at a time.
barre3: call or text 215.860.1625
215.970.9669 // RootsLandscape.com