Reyes Residence Project
This small-scale residential design project features the beautification of a neighbor’s backyard space. I worked on and completed this roughly 80 man-hour project over the timeframe of April to June 2018, with additional installations and check-ins throughout the following years. Over the duration of the project, I interviewed my neighbors concerning their preferences and desires for the space, examined site conditions, determined the position of existing plant material, drafted a (very roughly laid out) design, researched, selected, and sourced plant material, and installed it in the landscape. Following the installation, I made periodic visits and even implemented a secondary installation phase of plant material. Since then, I have been in periodic contact to check in on the health of the beds and my neighbors’ satisfaction with the space.
This design project marks some of my very first steps into the world of design. As a then-sophomore in high school, I can say with absolute certainty that I knew significantly less about the design/ installation process than I do now. Still, it provided me with the foundation on which I have continued to build. I had the opportunity to interact on a personal level with my neighbors concerning the design, strengthening my interpersonal skills. I analyzed site conditions, selected ideal plants, sourced them, and installed them, increasing my knowledge and experience in project management, planning, logistics, critical thinking and artistry. I continue to keep in contact with my neighbors about their yard, which has helped forge a years-long relationship that has helped me gain future design opportunities as well. Landscape architecture is a multidisciplinary field that requires an ability to not only analyze a space logically and artistically but also an aptitude for working with people. After all, it is these same people who will be potential clients, investors, and maybe even business partners. This project taught me both sides of the spectrum. It has and will continue to prove valuable in my career journey.