LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

The work presented here is a collaborative effort by a design team, of which I had the privilege to be a member. 

RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITIES

Most of my experience has centered on designing sustainable residential communities that harmonize with the environments of Texas and South Florida. As part of various firms, I have collaborated with leading developers such as Lennar, Bluenest Development, Century Communities, and DR Horton to create thoughtfully designed landscapes for townhomes, villas, and single-family homes.

The deliverables include comprehensive site plan landscape designs that integrate key community amenities such as clubhouses with pools, dog parks, and tot lots, fostering a sense of connection and well-being among residents.

Sustainability is at the core of my design approach. Priority is given to the use of native planting materials that are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and wind-resistant, ensuring long-term resilience while reducing water consumption and maintenance costs. The strategic selection of shade-providing trees and wildlife-friendly shrubs not only enhances the aesthetic and ecological value of these communities but also contributes to energy efficiency by naturally cooling outdoor spaces.

Through innovation and environmental responsibility, I have had the opportunity to create landscapes that enhance the quality of life while respecting and preserving natural beauty.

MODEL CENTERS

Model centers serve as high-end showcases for developers, offering potential buyers a glimpse into the refined lifestyle of a completed community.

At Witkin Hults and Partners, I have had the opportunity to design inviting landscapes that enhance these premier presentation spaces. The model center landscapes feature decorative planters, accent trees, and lush shrubs to create a polished and welcoming first impression. Outdoor spaces are carefully curated with amenities such as pools, water features, lounge areas, and stylish outdoor furniture for dining, breakfast, and relaxation.

By integrating thoughtful design with high-end finishes, we craft model centers that elevate the homebuying experience and reflect the community's quality.

PRIVATE RESIDENCES

Designing landscapes for private residences requires a personalized approach that balances client vision, budget, and functionality. Effective communication is essential, ensuring that client ideas and preferences are seamlessly integrated into the final design.

The process remains flexible and collaborative, allowing for adjustments and refinements to meet evolving needs. 

Whether creating lush gardens, outdoor entertainment spaces, or tranquil retreats, the focus is on delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions that enhance both beauty and livability—while staying within budget.

HIGH-RISE DEVELOPMENTS ALONG THE ATLANTIC COAST 

South Florida’s Atlantic coast presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for landscape architects working on high-rise developments. As urban density continues to increase, particularly in coastal cities, the integration of sustainable landscape solutions at vertical scales has become both a design imperative and a technical challenge.

At Witkin Hults and Partners, I have had the opportunity to contribute to the design process from the ground level to amenity decks, rooftop pool areas, and elevated terraces for high-rise residential and mixed-use towers—spaces that serve as urban sanctuaries for residents while promoting environmental resilience.

The coastal environment demands a planting palette that can withstand salt-laden winds, prolonged sun exposure, and limited soil volumes. To ensure long-term vitality and reduced maintenance, we have prioritized the use of drought-tolerant, salt-resistant, and wind-resilient plant species, selecting from native and adapted materials that thrive in these conditions. This approach also includes plant material appropriate for beachfront and oceanfront properties, drawing on species commonly recommended for dune restoration and preservation to reinforce shoreline stability and ecological integrity.

Species diversity is critical not only for ecological health and pest resistance but also for creating dynamic, layered landscapes that remain visually appealing year-round.

Designing elevated landscapes introduces structural and logistical complexities, especially when integrating large canopy trees or palms on upper floors. Load-bearing capacities, root containment systems, wind loading, irrigation, and drainage must be carefully coordinated with structural engineers and architects. Despite these challenges, I see upper-level planting as a powerful tool to enhance the human experience in dense urban environments—providing shade, cooling, privacy, and a sense of retreat from the city below.

Through thoughtful plant selection, innovative green infrastructure, and interdisciplinary collaboration, I aim to transform vertical spaces into sustainable, livable environments that respond to both the climate realities and the lifestyle aspirations of South Florida’s coastal residents.