World Landscape Architecture Month Spotlight - Bear Creek Landscaping & Construction
As we continue celebrating World Landscape Architecture Month, we’re spotlighting the incredible talent behind the landscapes that inspire us. First up: Bear Creek Landscaping & Construction, based in Redmond, WA.
With a reputation for creativity, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness, Bear Creek’s landscape architects are passionate about shaping outdoor spaces that connect people to nature. But what fuels that passion? What design principles guide their work? And what trends are capturing their attention right now?
We caught up with the team to learn more about their journeys, inspirations, and standout projects. Read on to meet the minds behind Bear Creek’s innovative, nature-driven designs!
What inspired you to become a landscape architect/designer?
The curiosity of why spaces are used by people.
How would you describe your design philosophy in one sentence?
Respect the natural elements of a space, respect the people who will be using the space, and find harmony between them.
What’s your favorite project you’ve worked on and why?
West Residence, formerly the residence of Professor Iain Robertson, because of the way it blends natural elements with designed spaces.
What elements or materials do you love incorporating into your designs?
Only the materials/elements that support the design intent.
What trends in landscape architecture/design excite you the most right now?
Using materials wisely & thoughtfully so the project can be enjoyed for generations and we generate a minimal carbon footprint or waste
Who has been a major influence or mentor in your career?
Prof. Iain Robertson, John Kenyon, Sean Bensen.
Anything else you’d like to share about your journey or the field of landscape architecture?
It's a Dream of a Career to combine my drive to combine Art with Science.
What inspired you to become a landscape architect/designer?
What inspired me to become a landscape architect/designer was a passion for creating spaces that bring people closer to nature, blending beauty, functionality, and sustainability. My love for golf, particularly walking golf courses, played a significant role in this. I’ve always been fascinated by how golf courses are designed to integrate seamlessly into the natural landscape, offering not just a sport but an immersive experience with the environment. The idea of designing spaces that encourage people to engage with nature, while also being mindful of the community around them, really resonated with me. Being able to design these kinds of environments—where people can walk, relax, play, and live in harmony with nature—is what truly inspired me to pursue landscape architecture. I see it as an opportunity to create spaces that not only enhance the quality of life for those who use them but also preserve and celebrate the natural world.
How would you describe your design philosophy in one sentence?
My design philosophy in landscape architecture is to create harmonious, sustainable spaces that seamlessly integrate nature, community, and thoughtful human activity.
What’s your favorite project you’ve worked on and why?
My favorite project I’ve worked on was a backyard redesign for a neighbor (project pictured above, first photo is before, second two are after). Initially, the client—a city official—was looking to replace and expand his old deck, wanting a space for entertaining. After a few meetings and a little convincing, we decided that a more permanent solution would be the way to go. What made this project especially rewarding was seeing how the design transformed the space into a beautiful, functional outdoor retreat that he could enjoy for years to come. It was fulfilling to help him realize the potential of his backyard and create a lasting, sustainable outdoor environment.
What elements or materials do you love incorporating into your designs?
I love incorporating materials like stone, wood, and native plants into my designs, as they help create a sense of timelessness and connection to the environment. I also enjoy integrating water features, like ponds or streams, to enhance the experience. The use of texture and color is a driving force in designing.
What trends in landscape architecture/design excite you the most right now?
What excites me most in landscape architecture right now is the focus on sustainability—using native plants and designing spaces that help the environment rather than harm it. People are also really into outdoor wellness, like creating gardens or walking paths that encourage physical and mental health. Lastly, I love the trend of blending indoor and outdoor spaces, where homes and gardens feel like they’re one continuous space, giving people more ways to enjoy nature at home.
Who has been a major influence or mentor in your career?
A major influence in my career has been the owner of a small landscape company where I started my journey. He really mentored me and taught me the importance of listening closely to clients—not just hearing what they say but truly understanding what they want. His passion for helping people and creating meaningful spaces was contagious, and it shaped the way I approach every project.
Anything else you’d like to share about your journey or the field of landscape architecture?
I think one of the most rewarding aspects of landscape architecture is the ability to create spaces that people can connect with. It’s not just about designing something that looks beautiful—it’s about making spaces that enhance the way people live, work, and interact with nature.