The Office of Katie O'Reilly Rogers, ASLA, takes a very traditional approach to Landscape Architecture. KOR believes in collaboration, and initiates each project with meetings with the client, architect, civil engineer, and when possible, contractors. KOR is involved in all aspects of site planning, beginning with larger issues of stormwater management and drainage, siting of structures and circulation. To KOR, 'sustainability' is synonymous with landscape architecture. Our professional approach has continuously implemented these principles throughout the duration of our practice.
Classically trained, KOR's designs emphasize these qualities:
• Exquisite Detail
• Technical Expertise
• Commitment to the Environment
• Highest Quality Design Service
We believe that from the smallest residential garden to an 80-acre commercial center and regional recreational park, the beauty is in the details. KOR takes great pleasure in giving critical attention to each aspect of the hardscape design. Fountains, stairs and walkways, entry courts, pools and spas, walls, columns, and fencing are all richly detailed using authentic materials. The contractors with whom we work are true craftsmen, who both understand and replicate the art of the garden from the turn of the century.
TECHNICAL
EXPERTISE
Before the term "Landscape Architect"
was coined by Frederick Law Olmstead and Calvert Vaux, Olmstead
referred to himself as a "Landscape Engineer." KOR
agrees that this term is more aligned with the actual practice
of traditional Landscape Architects. KOR has extensive exposure
to and experience with the principles of both Civil and Structural
Engineers. Our drawings are thorough and complete, and incorporate
Landscape Grading Plans, Layout Plans, Construction Detail
Reference Plans, and extensive Construction Details. Of course,
we also incorporate beautiful Planting Design, Irrigation
and Landscape Lighting Plans as finishing touches to our gardens.
Sustainable development has been defined as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. As responsive landscape architects we are always working with the long-term future in mind. An essential component of our design philosophy is a lasting, positive outcome for the client, the community, and the environment. The values we hold highest are those of environmental sustainability and the implications of our work for future generations.
HIGHEST
QUALITY DESIGN SERVICES
The design process begins with an informal meeting with the clients, realtor, landscape architect, and architect, if selected. The clients’ vision of their new home is explored, taking into consideration the site and any existing structures on the property. Practical items such as vehicular and pedestrian circulation are studied (just how does one get the groceries to the kitchen without getting wet in our occasional rainstorms?) Indoor outdoor connections are paramount, as most of our daily living in Santa Barbara is actually done outside. Special additions to the outdoor rooms, such as pools, spas, fountains, fireplaces and built in bar-b-ques or outdoor kitchens are carefully incorporated into a Garden Master Plan.
When all parties are happy with the Master Plan, the technical work begins: the Construction Drawings. Our plans typically include grading plans, with consideration of stormwater management for drainage and water cleansing; hardscape layout and dimension plans; construction details showing the specifics of sizes, materials, and structural reinforcing; planting plans, incorporating drought tolerant and firescape principles; schematic irrigation plan using low flow automatic systems with rain gauges; landscape lighting plans; and landscape details.
These plans are submitted to the review body responsible for approval, and then to the building department for permitting. Plans are also given to the various trades for bidding: stone masons, pool contractors, landscape contractors, electrician, and grading contractors. The bidding can be done through a General Contractor, or our office can perform this service.
After the permits are issued, and the final bidders selected, the real fun begins: CONSTRUCTION! This phase involves lots of dust, noise, and questions requiring owners’ answers (just what color tile did we choose in that fountain…)! With a competent team of architect, landscape architect, general contractor, and subcontractors, this phase is actually quite exciting. Regular meetings between the owners and the design and building team quickly resolve any issues that might arise, and seeing the progress first hand allows for new ideas to be incorporated during the construction, instead of some years later thinking “gee, I sure wish we had changed that while we still could.”
The Result - A beautiful personal renovated or new residence awaits your family. Dive right in with enthusiasm, and with an enthusiastic team. You will be thrilled with your very own slice of Paradise in our California Riviera.
