Laura Morton, CPLD, FAPLD
Laura Morton Design
Los Angeles, CA 

“Laguna Charm”

Gold Award, Residential Category over $100,00

Project Location: Laguna Niguel, CA

The hardscape material selection was inspired by European gardens and was designed to feel intimate and elegant while being durable. Gravel, cobble, wood, and natural stone were used— restrained materials that created a desired sense of timelessness.

“Weber Project'“

Silver Award, Residential Category $25,000 - $100,000

Project Location: San Diego, CA

The clients wanted to keep some of the hardscapes (organic shapes) but also wanted a more modern, contemporary, clean look. These shapes were used to design the new areas of the backyard and a yin-and-yang effect was built into the design.

Photos by Janet Bark Photography.

“Southwood”

Silver Award, Residential Category over $100,000

Project Location: Orinda, CA

A Corten steel sculpture and raised Corten planters add warmth and interest to a linear entryway. Drought-tolerant and California natives reduce water consumption.

Usable space was established with the use of decking material to expand outdoor living around an existing pool, turning previously unusable space into functional space.

Photos by Joe Dodd.

“Starview Residence”

Silver Award, Residential Category over $100,00

Project Location: Danville, CA

This modern garden’s layout and colors complement the modern lines of the clients’ chic California home. An austere design creates a calm setting for outdoor living. The clients use these spaces for family gatherings as well as work-related events.

“Small Yard Sanctuary”

Bronze Award, Small Gardens Category

Project Location: Moraga, CA

My clients desperately wanted a safe yard for their whole family to enjoy. Their young children also needed space to play. In addition, they wanted to be able to invite friends over at a moment’s notice and therefore requested to have minimal plantings (but wanted a camellia, olive, azalea, and “dainty” flowers included) that require nominal maintenance.'

For the design, I really wanted the outdoor space to seamlessly blend with their indoor living. It was important to make every inch of the space functional and family-friendly.

The APLD International Landscape Design Awards Program honors excellence in landscape design by recognizing individual landscape designers and their projects. The program brings exceptional talent to the attention of peers, potential clients and the world of design.

All entries will be part of an intensive multi-level screening process. A distinguished panel of experts judges the entries to select Gold, Silver and Bronze award recipients. Projects are judged on the basis of difficulty, craftsmanship, attention to detail and specific criteria outlined in the awards entry packet. There are no set number of awards to be presented. Judges may select multiple Gold, Silver and Bronze awards in each category based on qualifying scores. Awards may or may not be given in every category. 

Each entry category is evaluated independently. The type, size and cost of the project will not be criteria for judging. The judging criteria totals 100 points. Projects scoring 90 points or above will receive Gold awards. Projects scoring between 80 to 89 points will receive Silver awards. Bronze awards are given at the judges discretion for projects scoring between 75 and 79 points. 

From the gold award winning entries, the judges will choose the 2022 APLD Best of Show. This award can be given to an individual designer, design collaboration, or design practice. 

The 2022 Landscape Designer of the Year is a judges’ award, based on the following criteria: 

• Interprets the space in a unique way 

• Shows a creative solution to a landscape challenge 

• Is innovative with the use of materials and resources

• Has a uniquely creative vision for the space 

• Their project elicits a, “Wow, I wish I would have thought of that!” response to the design 

All entrants must use APLD’s awards website to submit their projects for consideration.

The deadline for entries : November 15, 2021

Click here for the awards brochure:

Qualified Professional Members

A landscape designer who engages in the practice of landscape design for monetary compensation and contains more than 3 years of professional landscape design experience. Documentation of education and experience is required.

Lisa Onodera
Lisa Onodera Landscape Design
Topanga, CA

Katharine Webster Kocks
Katharine Webster Inc.
San Francisco, CA

Marion (Sami) Weed
Marion A Weed
Palm Desert, CA

Professional Members

A landscape designer who engages in the practice of landscape design for monetary compensation and contains more than 3 years of professional landscape design experience. Documentation of education and experience is required.

Amber Mueller
When the Sun Hits Landscape and Garden Design
Berkeley, CA

Emerging Professional Members

An individual who has been practicing landscape design for one to three years and is starting a career in landscape design. Membership requires affirmation of education and experience, but not documentation.

Mahima Gupta
Sage & Aster
Brisbane, CA

Amber Tippett
Sidewalk Poppies Landscape Design
Long Beach, CA,

Joshua Stangby
Stangby Designs
Fresno, CA

NEW MEMBER HIGHLIGHT: Joshua Stangby

Interview by Debbie Seracini, APLD California Chapter Membership Chairperson

Where did you grow up and what is your earliest experience in nature/the landscape there? 

I was born and raised in the city of Los Angeles, California; a concrete jungle filled with diversity, excitement, and wonderful art. My earliest and fondest memory is riding the local transportation with my family, to go to the Labrea tar pits. This area has a wonderful combination of history, vibrant architecture, and a welcoming family community. 

What is your current favorite landscape design style and why?

My favorite style of landscape design is Mid-Century Modern. The structure and functionality that is used in this design aligns best with my personality and nature. Clean lines, and purposeful areas that are clearly defined brings a sense of calmness. 

Who or what inspires you?

What inspires me is the idea of creating something from a simple idea. Landscape design is like an unorchestrated dance between creative expression and pragmatism of what is buildable. Each design has its own vision. I enjoy accurately expressing the design from thought into reality. My biggest influences are Frank Gehry, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Thelonious Monk. They're daring, creative, innovative, and highly gifted artists. 

What environmentally sustainable concepts do you apply to your landscape design practice?

The main sustainable concept I practice is water conservation. Water is an extremely scarce resource, especially in Fresno, California. Our water table is constantly dropping, and using techniques to conserve water within the landscape is key. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce water runoff, and preserve as much as possible.

 How did you find out about APLD and what led you to join?

I found out about the APLD by researching online. I was seeking a supportive community of experts that I could learn from, and share experiences with. 

What do you hope to gain through your membership with APLD?

I hope to gain a wealth of knowledge, and wisdom by learning from professionals. Most importantly, I would like to meet professionals, and build meaningful relationships that help serve the landscape community.