Carson Douglas

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Carson Douglas

Carson Douglas is a Landscape Architecture firm dedicated to creating imaginative, functional, and attractive landscapes that elicit lasting responses.

Carson Douglas was founded in 2014 through a partnership between William Carson Joyce and Michael Douglas Brennan. Their signature designs embrace natural systems, feed the imagination, and reinforce the instincts of modernism. They are committed to stewardship of the land, responsible use of natural resources, incorporation of local materials, native plants and appreciation of physical interactio

n with the landscape. Carson Douglas designs seek uncontrived, natural solutions that inspire discovery, splendor, and balance.

07/18/2025

From Principal Michael Brennan

To the vibrant community of Hillcrest, and to all celebrating San Diego Pride this weekend, my heart is full of gratitude and PRIDE.

Hillcrest is where CDLA began, it's where I met my design partner Bill over coffee at Babycakes on Fifth. Uptown is a vital part of our story and a community we deeply cherish. I'm especially reflecting the early days of my career, pouring my passion into fostering the Hillcrest Pride Flag and Monument civic project. Seeing that flag wave proudly over our neighborhood remains a profound source of joy knowing there are thousands of people to whom it brings a public sense of hope and connection.

It’s been truly inspiring to watch that civic space continue to evolve, transforming into the verdant tree-lined promenade we envisioned years ago. And looking toward the future, I'm delighted to see the vibrant Evoc apartments—a project we designed with the spirit of a thriving Normal Street in mind—adding their colorful presence to the streetscape with surely more housing to come.

In this moment where our hard fought rights are being challenged and in some cases stripped away, we must be more united than ever, look out for one another and continue to build one another up.

Here's to a weekend of celebration, community, and solidarity.

With PRIDE,

Michael Brennan - Principal
Carson Douglas Landscape Architecture

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11/07/2024

Nestled amidst the serene landscape of coastal Maine, this wooded property along a tidal river has been transformed into a retreat fit for peaceful comfort, family gathering, and neighborhood entertainment. The design features a pool, hot tub, fireplace, sauna, outdoor kitchen, and a bocce court. Custom stonework and carpentry throughout showcase the fine skills of local artisans.

07/29/2024

Situated in the vibrant core of Solana Beach, the Sandbox development showcases contemporary living in a verdant coastal setting. This true mixed-use project, featuring modern apartments, office spaces, retail, and dining, emphasizes a landscape first approach with nature weaved throughout its urban fabric.

The project’s streetscape and podium courtyard spaces have been crafted as a series of experiences, more angular and editorial at the center with softer edges that blend into the neighborhood. The design employs timeless materials—concrete, corten steel, and wood—that create a striking modern aesthetic while ensuring durability. The use of boulders and native plants adds depth and authenticity, enhancing the natural dialogue of the landscape.

In line with the Highway 101 Specific Plan, the street frontage includes generous parkway widths, accommodating vibrant landscaping and wide sidewalks. This design enriches the pedestrian experience and strengthens the connection to the community. A wide ranging yet carefully selected collection of plants softens architectural lines and offers resilience against a more intense future climate.

The Sandbox anchors this new corner of Solana beach as a thriving hub with a commitment to high-quality design and a landscape that leaves an enduring impression.

06/25/2024

Nestled along the picturesque shores of coastal Maine, .spa embodies a perfect fusion of nature's essence and sophisticated comfort. Designed to harmonize with its surroundings, this landscape invites guests through an expansive birch tree-lined stone path, set against a backdrop of verdant native meadow.

Central to its allure is a stone hot tub, beckoning visitors to unwind amidst the tranquil setting, while an impeccably crafted outdoor kitchen and dining area promise delightful culinary adventures. A sun-drenched deck offers an idyllic spot for sunbathing and enjoying sweeping views of the ocean on long summer days.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, .spa is a testament to the serene allure of Maine's coastline, fostering moments of tranquility and profound connection with nature. It is here that every element conspires to create an atmosphere of refinement and relaxation, where every glance and touch resonates with the harmony of coastal living.

05/15/2024

As the sun sets over this picturesque landscape, a modern yet rustic charm beckons neighbors to gather. Flanked by mature olive trees in board-formed concrete planters, it boasts an inviting entry. The backyard reveals an oversized pool, complemented by an outdoor kitchen and dining area sheltered under a stunning reclaimed wood trellis. With a cozy fireplace seating area and a raised vegetable garden, serenity finds its home here.
Photos by

05/13/2024

We are looking for a new team member with 3-5 years of experience in the field. If you have relevant design experience, are passionate about growing in the field of Landscape Architecture, and looking to join a highly creative firm please reach out by sending your resume and portfolio to [email protected]. Ideal candidates will be working remotely from Southern California, coastal Maine or New York.

04/16/2024

This stylish home retreat is situated amongst a boulder studded chaparral hillside in Alpine. The clients desired a modern rustic look and feel with a place for their chickens, greenhouse and a private sunset patio.

Photos
Landscape Architect

04/15/2024

The Sandbox development is situated in the heart of Solana beach with walkable access to Cedros Ave, the train station, and the beach. It is a true mixed use bike and pedestrian forward property offering modern coastal apartments, office space, restaurants and retail. Carson Douglas Landscape Architecture was tasked with creating a unique streetscape design for the community and elevated courtyard experience for those who live, work, and play here.

Developer
Architect
Landscape Architect

01/16/2024

This Del Mar client had their sights set on a sophisticated multi level pool scene set for year round entertainment. The upper terrace features a flush rim flow spa with a waterfall to the pool, outdoor kitchen, dining and fire pit. The pool rests at the mid backyard level and features a large walk-over baja shelf and swim up bar. The lower level houses a covered bar area with additional seating and deck space. This lot was incredibly challenging due to its limited size and access constraints for the build, our hats off to the construction team.

08/29/2022

Colorful “dry-lush” plants and layered details complete this Spanish courtyard home in sun drenched north San Diego. Flagstone and gravel pathways flow through garden rooms and
connect a bocce court with the larger landscape. The central courtyard features angular ledge stone planted with miniature succulents, a vine filled trellis with native southern California grape, and a field grown olive in a large tile adorned concrete planter. Photos by Linear Photography

04/21/2022

We are excited to be a sponsor for the first annual Paddle for a Purpose charity event. It will be hosted in mid coast Maine on June 11th by our friends .

The mission of Paddle for a Purpose is simple: get people out on the water with intention. This year's event will benefit the Lincoln County nonprofit Participants will paddle (canoe, kayak, SUP, row, or anything you can paddle) 5 miles from the town landing in Damariscotta down the river to Glidden Point Oyster Farms.

Upon arrival, lunch will be held followed by a raffle and auction. will be playing live and will be slinging pizza. Friends and family of participants are encouraged to attend this after-paddle-party.

Tickets for Paddlers and friends + family are available now at the gliddenpoint.com events page.

Thank you to all the sponsors:
First National Bank
Midcoast Kayak
Carson Douglas Landscape Architecture
Kit Craft
Ocean Blue Fitness
Whaleback Cider Company
Crow Point
Kingfisher & The Queen
Sherman's Bookstore
Midcoast Conservancy
Liz Director
Se Vende Imports
Patagonia Freeport

03/18/2022

There are four essential elements in this garden design: rocks, water, plants, and ornaments. Design principles of asymmetry, enclosure, balance, and symbolism are all in harmony.

Address

San Diego, CA
92103

Telephone

+16199951306

Website

http://cd-la.com/

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