Philosophy

Every successful design project begins with a well coordinated team in which the client, the landscape architect, the building architect, the engineer and consultants collaborate to develop a creative solution unique to each client’s needs, desires, tastes and budget.

Ramifications of any required permitting is reviewed with the client prior to embarking on detailed design. Depending on what permits are required can dictate certain design responses and effect the project timeline.

We listen carefully to our client’s initial ideas for their property in order to craft a clear set of project objectives. “We really try to understand our clients’ personalities, in order to truly create an environment that they will enjoy” says the firm’s founder Craig Okerstrom-Lang, RLA, ASLA.

A harmonious landscape design creates an environment that is sensitive and responsive to the land.   Our approach is to organize design within a series of “outdoor rooms” which can be an extension of the interior, so that the line between the interior-exterior becomes blurred.   The landscape also becomes an extension of the client, a place that touches their heart and allows them to daydream, sit quietly or play loudly.

Achieving harmony in landscape design entails an effective blend of both the art and science.   The art of design requires attention to simplicity and elegance.   The science of design must take into account the site analysis (“anatomy of the site”) such as the topography of the site, drainage, weather patterns, existing vegetation, wetlands and natural water features among others.

A landscape is a dynamic environment that changes and evolves as it ages.   Landscape architecture is a delicate balance between the “static design” (the hardscape of steps, walls, terraces, swimming pools, etc.) and the “living design” (the landscape of trees, shrubs, gardens, etc).

A successful design project ends with a successful installation.

We provide an integrated construction process with skilled craftsman, use of durable materials, timely construction schedule and on-site construction supervision from our staff.

Effective construction management of the project, appropriate attention to on going details and clear communications with all involved is a key to our clients’ satisfaction.