Welcome!

Lori Cagwin-Carey Landscape Architecture was formed in 1989 in Sonoma County and is now located in the Napa Valley. My project range encompasses parks, housing developments, inns and spas, estates, wineries, commercial, residential and municipal properties.

Being a California native and growing up in a landscape contracting family, I have experienced the full spectrum of project startup through completion, and realized early on the importance of teamwork. A successful project is the result of a thoughtful and creative blending of client needs and site constraints. A successful project is the achievement of many, made possible not only by the landscape architect's vision, but also by the contractor's skill and interpretation of that vision, and the client's trust. The process of site assessment, preliminary schematics, budget analysis, final master plans, working drawings, bid administration through project coordination and final acceptance with maintenance guidelines is necessary to achieve a truly successful project.

While attending UC Berkeley in the late 70's with a major in Landscape Architecture, I took a year abroad to study Impressionist landscape painting in Aix-en-Provence, France, where I was exposed to art and nature every day. From pastoral softscapes through the axial symmetry of Versailles, I was able to see and experience the results of man's hand in the natural world, and to realize that I could make a difference.

In all of my projects I work to achieve a harmony between built and natural forms... a softening of hard edges and a strengthening of the entire site composition. I am sensitive in understanding project locations and appropriate hardscape and plant materials for each site. I enjoy complimenting architectural styles to strengthen the indoor/outdoor cohesion. I support and encourage sustainable design concepts.

As a Landscape Architect, I understand my place in the natural world and realize how responsible we are for maintaining harmony and balance in our world. The ability to have sensorial exposure to the outdoor world through a garden or outdoor space helps us to understand our place in the world and to protect and respect the landscape that we all hold so dear.

Lori Cagwin-Carey
Landscape Architect