It's always nice to hear from a satisfied client -
"Kate's ability, foresight, and talent transformed our properties not only into picturesque landscapes, but they look as if they have been this way for generations. One of my favorite things to do with Kate early in a project before any drawings are made, is to simply walk the property with her as she gets inspired and begins to suggest ideas. She walks and talks while constantly creating, designing, and describing the most beautiful, incredible, and creative vision that are topped only by the finished project itself. She is not only a gifted landscape architect, but she is also a truly gifted artist."

Tools of the Trade

Bright yellow trace, Pentel Sign pens, back Sharpie extra fine, red, black and blue Flair pens, drafting dots and a black plastic scale - these are the tools of my trade.

Years ago, I stopped needing the parallel ruler, although I still have it attached to my drawing board. No more plastic triangles, occasional use of a circle template, the same one I had in school. I can freehand draw an almost perfect circle and parallel curving lines.

I have perfected the art of ripping a sheet of trace off the roll using my triangle scale without shifting the layers beneath. Each trace layer represents the sequence of my thinking - as I create, I rework what is beneath, a fluid and connected process. The trace layers represent the preservation of the process, saving the design as layers until a final plan has emerged.

Eye of an Artist

I think that because of my training as an artist, I see the world around me in design terms, such as form, balance, rhythm, dynamic movement. I am constantly searching my visual world for vignettes that express beautiful examples. That critical analysis is the drumbeat of my days.