Meet Sarah Nolasco. As LCI’s newest landscape designer, she graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo. A native Californian, Sarah was born in Redwood City and grew up in South San Francisco as the middle child with one older sister and a younger brother. When not working or planning her upcoming wedding (to be held in September), she enjoys taking spin classes and pursuing her love of bacon.

Recently, Sarah was asked  about her passion for landscape architecture, what drives her landscape designs and what advice she has for future landscape architects.

What drew you to a career in landscape architecture?

When choosing a career, I wanted to do something that involved my skills and interests. My father is a gardener and during my childhood he taught me about different trees and flowers, information that I have come to love. I am also very interested in math and design, and landscape architecture encompasses those things.

What do you find most rewarding about landscape architecture?

Providing spaces for people is something that I am really proud of, especially for children. I really like working on schools or parks where children have an opportunity to go outside and play. Even more so if the space is in need of community engagement. Since landscape were a big part of my childhood, I want to give back in the same way.

Whom in landscape architecture inspires you?

Julie Bargmann, Peter Walker, Beatrix Farrand, Roberto Burle Marx, and, of course, Lynn Capouya.

What would you like to see for the future of landscape architecture?

Hopefully, landscape architecture will continue to become more sustainable, water wise, and community oriented.

When you are developing a landscape design, are there any specific goals that you consistently keep in mind?

There are many, but here are three. First is maintaining a sense of place by utilizing native plants, stone or existing landscape materials. Second is constructability. Could the design exist in reality with modern construction techniques and technology? Third is usefulness of space. Do the spaces create function and are they adding value to the existing landscape?

What advice would you give to those aspiring to become landscape architects?

Have passion and understand that this is a modest profession. One has to love landscape architecture to really make a difference.