Landscape architecture has never been more essential. As communities across the West face rising temperatures, shifting water resources, and rapid urban growth, design has become both an environmental responsibility and a social calling. The landscapes we create today will define how future generations live, connect, and thrive. Through thoughtful planning and resilient design, Design Studios Landscape Development shapes environments that heal ecosystems, elevate daily life, and embody long-term sustainability.
Our teams are licensed in the following states: California (#5669, #6125, #6593), Arizona (#70031), Nevada (#1162), Washington (#23022490), Montana (#27104), and Idaho (#5071966). This broad regional reach allows Design Studios Landscape Development to apply diverse design strategies across varied climates and topographies—each with its own ecological and regulatory challenges.
The licensed professionals leading our studio are members of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and hold certifications in LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). This foundation of expertise supports our commitment to designing landscapes that are functional, resilient, and aligned with environmental responsibility. From arid desert communities to coastal cities and mountain regions, our work advances best practices in modern landscape architecture.
Best Practices Guiding Innovative Landscape Design
1. Water Harvesting and Reuse
Stormwater is treated as a resource rather than a burden. Techniques such as bioswales, rain gardens, and greywater systems capture and cleanse runoff, while HVAC condensate reuse reduces reliance on municipal water sources.
2. Climate-Adapted Planting Design
Successful landscapes respond to their environment. Native, drought-tolerant species and hydro-zoned planting areas create balanced ecosystems that conserve water and thrive in local conditions.
3. Living Soil Systems
Soil health is the foundation of sustainable design. Incorporating compost, mulch, and natural amendments builds living systems that retain water, store carbon, and support biodiversity.
4. Urban Cooling and Comfort
Landscape architects play a vital role in reducing urban heat. Tree canopies, shaded walkways, reflective surfaces, and green roofs lower temperatures, increase comfort, and contribute to public health.
5. Multi-Functional Spaces
Modern design integrates beauty with performance. Outdoor environments are planned to capture stormwater, restore habitats, and welcome people, blending ecological function with social value.
6. Certification and Performance Frameworks
Design excellence is measured through frameworks such as LEED, SITES, and Net Zero. These systems guide project goals, ensuring long-term sustainability and accountability.
7. Data-Informed Design
Tools such as GIS mapping, hydrology modeling, and drone analysis help shape accurate, efficient design decisions, improving project predictability and performance.
8. Community Engagement
Lasting landscapes are created in partnership with those who use them. Early and meaningful stakeholder involvement ensures spaces meet community needs and inspire ongoing stewardship.
Experience That Delivers Confidence
Led by Principals Roberto Leo and Mike McDonnell, the Design Studios Landscape Development team brings decades of design, planning, and construction expertise to projects across the Western United States. Collaboration with the construction professionals at Landscape Development, Inc. ensures each project transitions seamlessly from concept to completion—providing clients with true peace of mind.
Roberto Leo • Principal Landscape Architect
805-336-5529 rleo@landscapedevelopment.com
CA #6125 / AZ #70031 / WA #23022490 / MT #27104
A.S.L.A. | LEED Green Associate
Mike McDonnell • Principal Landscape Architect
805-220-3548 mmcdonnell@landscapedevelopment.com
CA #5669 / NV #1162 / ID #5071966
A.S.L.A. | LEED AP
designstudiosld.com
88 N. Oak St., Suite 1A | Ventura, CA 93001
