04/11/2026
⚓️ Honoring History Through Design: USS Iowa
One would never expect a bond between the USS Iowa—one of America’s most powerful battleships—and the delicate beauty of hibiscus and bougainvillea. But the connection is the Pacific Ocean, where this mighty ship operated, and where these iconic flowers defined the landscape. 🌺🚢
This story began 40 years ago at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). In 1986, Courtland Studio LLC founder Paul Lewis was a student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Joe Vertrees was a student at Cal Poly Pomona. They served together as co-chairs of the student committee for Cal Poly’s 1987 Rose Parade float, “Breaking the Ice."
A highlight of that intense decorating week was when the Captain of the soon-to-be-commissioned submarine USS Pasadena visited to christen our float right before it hit the parade route—a memory that still makes us smile 40 years later. 🚢🌹
Decades later, that friendship has come full circle. Courtland Studio LLC landscape architecture team was honored to join Joe and his architecture and engineering firm, Vertrees A&E, to design the new Freedom of the Seas Pavilion and Visitor Center at the USS Iowa in San Pedro.
As the lead architect and engineer, Joe and his firm, Vertrees A&E, bring their signature expertise and thoughtful approach to this waterfront project. Their design will create a welcoming, functional space that honors the ship’s legacy while serving veterans, students, and the community for years to come.
🏗️ Bringing History to Life
A Living Tribute: For the landscape design, hibiscus and bougainvillea were chosen specifically because they are iconic to the Pacific region, where the USS Iowa saw its first action in WWII. They serve as a vibrant, living reminder of the ship's early service.
Family Roots: The Lewis and Vertrees families have Navy ties. Paul’s father served in the Navy during the Korean War, and Joe’s grandfather and uncles served in the Navy during World War II. Their stories of service have always been part of their family identities.
We love collaborating with Joe again to create a space where history, community, and design meet.