Custom landscapes responding to your home and lifestyle enhance outdoor living and quality of life, while adding value to your property. Each situation differs depending upon the natural and built settings as well as the humans who inhabit them.

I find joy in facilitating unique landscapes born out of the connection between people and place.

What is the difference between Landscape Architecture and Landscape Design?

I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture (B.LArch) from the Universities of Western Australia and New South Wales (UWA & UNSW). A secondary motive (after interest) in graduating was to add legitimacy to my ecological leanings. At a time when the profession of Landscape Architecture was still emerging, Architects and Engineers held more clout in the field of land development, than Permaculturalists and ‘Tree-Hugging Hippies’, and I wanted to make a difference in how we enjoy nature.

I am licensed in the State of Colorado as a Professional Landscape Architect (PLA) which requires passing the L.A.R.E. - 4 exams focused on critical aspects of Landscape Architecture:

• Inventory, Analysis, and Project Management

• Planning and Design

• Construction Documentation and Administration

• Grading, Drainage and Stormwater Management

This allows me to submit Site Plans for permitting (while defending nature ; ). When an Engineer’s stamp is required, such as for certain shade structures or slope retainment, I will consult with the engineer to ensure CAD documents are drawn to required specifications and loads, etc. before handing over to stamp, which can save valuable time and cost as well as design integrity. Landscape Architects in the US are supported by and held up to the standards of the ASLA, though membership is optional.

Currently, I work mostly as a Landscape Designer, supported by a strong understanding born out of my studies and experience in the field. I see the world of Landscape Design as typically more intimate and directly linking the client with the place, which I love.

Being a Freelance Designer working alongside close colleagues and artisans in Project Management also reduces the red tape of many large Design-Build companies, while ensuring trust is built and liabilities are respected.

Note: Due to limited regulations and overview of Landscape Designers in the field, except by optional involvement with organizations such as APLD, there is a wide spectrum of proficiency within the group of individuals and companies claiming the title.