Livable Landscapes: Balancing Artistic Expression in Design with Environmental Sensitivity
San Diego landscape architect Glen Schmidt believes that our outdoor environments, at home, work, and play, contribute greatly to our quality of life, health, and well-being. So when he established the Schmidt Design Group in 1983, he did it with the mission to produce what he calls “livable landscapes,” landscapes that balance artistic expression with environmental sensitivity.
At the Friends of San Diego Architecture meeting on March 17th, Mr. Schmidt will share highlights of his work, which spans a wide range of project types, from small-scale gardens to significant community parks. Examples are Sharp Health Care’s “healing gardens,” the Nature’s Bridge to Discovery trail along the Silver Strand, the Solana Beach Coastal Rail Trail, Cottonwood Creek Park in Encinitas, and the planned Horton Plaza Park.
Mr. Schmidt collaborated with the Stone Brewing Company’s owner, Greg Koch, in creating the firm’s beer gardens in Escondido, one of the most popular destinations in North County. And he is currently working with the brewery on its projected location at Liberty Station.
The Schmidt Design Group has been honored with more than 75 local, state, and national awards, including eight local Orchids. And its founder has been inducted as a Fellow in the American Society of Landscape Architects for “Significant Works of Landscape Architecture.” He is a San Diego native, and he and his wife of 29 years, the proud parents of two adult children, live in Bay Park.
Come to the March FSDA meeting to see landscapes that are livable. Perhaps even lovable.
photo credits: John Durant (first two) ; Glen Schmidt
