KW Landscape Architects On-Structure Qualifications Package NY
On-Structure
Qualifications Package
Through Cultivated Relationships and Transformative Design, We Will Build the Exceptional, Together.®
ON-STRUCTURE PARTNERS AND CLIENTS
• 3L Real Estate
• Allen Harrison Company
• Alliance Residential
• DC Partners
• Embrey
• Greystar
• Handel Architects
• High Street Residential
• Howard Hughes • KPF • Mill Creek Residential
• OHT Partners
• Pickard Chilton
• Satya Real Estate Consultants
• Slate Real Estate Partners
• Trammell Crow Residential
ON-STRUCTURE
On-structure landscape architecture in vertical residential multi-family developments represents a cutting-edge approach to urban design, making the most of limited space in densely populated areas. The landscape architecture on these structures often includes rooftop gardens, green terraces, and communal outdoor spaces, which provide residents with greenery and open areas despite the urban setting. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also offer environmental benefits such as improved air quality, stormwater management, and insulation.
The landscape design in on-structure developments typically features modern and sustainable elements, including native plantings, water-efficient irrigation systems, and green roofs. These features are carefully planned to cater to the needs of urban dwellers, offering a touch of nature amidst the concrete jungle. With their strategic locations and innovative landscape architecture, on-structure multifamily developments deliver an urban living experience that blends convenience, sustainability, and a connection to nature.
KW Landscape Architects (KW) is a professional landscape architecture firm with offices in Austin, Houston, Indianapolis, and San Antonio. Founded in 1991, the firm has grown from a two-man shop to a thriving firm that has completed over 3,800 projects. At KW Landscape Architects, together is a word that drives us. While we are trained designers, placemakers, and all the things you expect from a landscape architecture firm, we thrive from our authentic and trusting relationships with our clients and teams.
We believe that trusting relationships provide the foundation to build the exceptional. These relationships allow us to stretch what is possible, finding balance in the tension of innovation and reality. It invites our project teams to ask –how can we authentically connect people with their environment? How can we stretch to create exceptional spaces each and every time?
With collaboration as our ethos and excellence as our standard, we can confidently Build the Exceptional, Together.®
FIRM FACTS:
LLC | 34 YEARS IN BUSINESS | 50+ EMPLOYEES | 4 OFFICES NATIONWIDE
OFFICE LOCATIONS:
Austin, TX: 2400 E. Cesar Chavez Street, Suite 214 | Austin, Texas 78702
Indianapolis, IN: 1060 N Capital Ave, Suite 3-101 | Indianapolis, Indiana 46204
San Antonio, TX: 4039 Broadway St. | San Antonio, Texas 78209
PROJECT TEAM
Our team has unrivaled on-structure expertise backed by decades of experience. We have the necessary knowledge that allows us to convey a shared vision with our clients, all while maintaining our creativity and a deep understanding of the built environment. Whether it’s an on-structure pool or a rooftop amenity area, we know how to coordinate with all design and construction team members to ensure the project is designed and constructed correctly.
DARIN WEINHEIMER, PLA
Founding Partner dweinheimer@kwtexas.com
With over 39 years of working experience, Darin is a skilled and effective communicator. As Founding Partner, he is responsible for reviewing all design and construction documents. Having managed, reviewed, and overseen hundreds of MPC projects over his three decade career, Darin provides a wealth of knowledge for each community we design. In addition his experience also includes healthcare, education, on-structure pool decks, multifamily, mixed-use, retail centers, office buildings, hospitality, public parks, splash pads, churches, and residential design.
WESLEY SALAZAR, PLA
Partner wsalazar@kwtexas.com
As Partner at KW, Wesley fosters a collaborative environment, emphasizing diversity, efficiency, excellence, and teamwork. With over 18 years of experience, he believes that communication is key to achieving exceptional project results. His expertise in balancing design with constructibility is crucial for any highdesign project.
TRAVIS TRIOLA, PLA
Director of Urban Lifestyle ttriola@kwtexas.com
Travis is registered in Texas as a Professional Landscape Architect. As KW’s Urban Lifestyle Studio Director, his experience is backed by almost 13 years of experience. Having once led KW’s Construction Administration Team, you can trust that Travis’ eye for detail will ensure clear construction documents and ultimately, an exceptionally designed project. In addition, Travis oversees all Project Managers and coordinates the appropriate processes and standards for their work.
CYNTHIA DEHLAVI, PLA, LEED AP BD+C
Director of Design cdehlavi@kwtexas.com
As our Director of Design, Cynthia leads the firm’s design department assisting the team through our design processes, principles, and overall vision of our projects. She is a professional landscape architect with over a decade of experience in commercial landscape design. Her expertise encompasses a variety of project typologies, including institutional landscapes, mixed-use developments, master planning exercises, public parks, and roof gardens. She has a keen eye for aesthetics and a passion for innovative design practices.
FRANK GIBASE, RA
REVIT Specialist fgibase@kwtexas.com
Frank Gibase has been working in architecture for the better part of 7 years now. He’s designed at multiple scales - from a small branch bank to the soon to be tallest building in Tennessee. He’s worked on multiple program types over the course of his career, including multi-family residential, retail, commercial office space, and heavy lab/machine spaces. Throughout his career, he’s placed clear organization of space at the forefront of his designs. He stresses a simple, diagram-driven approach to architecture that has given his work a clear sense of purpose and place.
BRADLEY POINTON, LI
Construction Administration Executive bpointon@kwtexas.com
As a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, Bradley brings over 14 years of horticulture and irrigation knowledge to KW’s Construction Administration (CA) Team. Leading our CA Team, he is often found on-site performing site inspections, preparing field reports, reviewing submittals, tree tagging, and more. Bradley keeps projects on track and within budget, helping to maintain KW’s impeccable CA services.
WE BRING PEOPLE OUTSIDE.
At KW Landscape Architects, our mission is to design exceptional outdoor spaces that inspire people to step outside and engage with the world around them.
We Believe in the Power of Great Outdoor Environments
Community Creation Inspire Transformative Connections Enhance Human Health + Wellbeing Advance Sustainable Practices Innovate + Restore
DESIGN PRIORITY
HUMAN HEALTH + WELL BEING
At KW Landscape Architects, we prioritize human health and well-being by designing vibrant and accessible outdoor spaces that encourage physical activity and provide restorative environments. Our thoughtfully planned outdoor spaces promote community interaction and connection to nature, enhancing mental health and overall quality of life. By implementing sustainable practices and integrating native biodiversity, we create resilient landscapes that foster a holistic sense of well-being for all who use them.
/ Bi-Annual
- No urban intrusion
1 Weekend Per Month
Monthly Dose
Restful natural areas (e.g. national parks, lakes, rivers) with minimal urban intrusion
Weekly Dose
Bigger / wilder city, state, regional parks and waterways with less urban intrusion
30 Minutes Per Day
2 Hours Per Week Daily Dose
Nearby nature, (e.g. outside in daylight with fresh airgardens, neighborhood parks, fountains, urban wildlife)
THIRD SPACES ARE CRITICAL TO THE EXPERIENCE OF A CITY
1 st
The Home
The private realm of the home and family. It represents personal life, comfort, and intimacy—a space for rest, daily routines, and close relationships.
2 nd
The Workplace
The professional or institutional realm, where people engage in work, education, or structured activity. This space emphasizes productivity, collaboration, and professional relationships.
3 rd
Neutral Space
A social space where people gather, interact, and build community. These third spaces play a critical role in fostering a sense of belonging, engagement, and community in urban and suburban settings.
QUALITIES OF THE THIRD SPACE
+20% feeling of inclusivity
Programming Outdoor Spaces
We bring people outside through intentional design and curated activities. By weaving movement, leisure, and gathering into the fabric of outdoor spaces, we transform them into vibrant places people are drawn to—day and night, year-round.
lunch outside
What Makes A Great On-Structure Landscape Space?
Lightweight, Resilient Design
Use lightweight soil and shallow-rooted plants to reduce load, ensure good drainage to prevent leaks, and choose wind-tolerant species with screens for protection.
Microclimate Comfort
Use shade structures, trees and light materials to reduce heat, and add plantings or screens to block wind.
Usability and Program
Design with flexible seating, defined activity zones, and open space, while ensuring accessibility, safety, and amenities.
Ecological and Aesthetic
Use low-maintenance native plants suited for rooftops, incorporating biodiverse, pollinator-friendly species and seasonal interest for visual appeal.
Integration with Architecture
Coordinate with the architect on load, drainage, and waterproofing, while visually aligning the rooftop space with the building’s overall design.
Curated Zones
Organic Form
TRENDING ON-STRUCTURE THEMES
Brand Identity
Curated Experiences
Social Spaces
Technology
Integration
Market
Specific
Wellness
Design
RONE
SUSTAINABILITY
CLIMATE RESPONSIVE DESIGN
Our climate responsive approach analyzes sun, wind, rainfall, and ecology to design amenity decks, rooftop environments, and ground-level plazas that maximize comfort, manage stormwater, and reduce heat gain. Materials and plants are selected to conserve resources while elevating the architectural vision. The result is outdoor spaces that extend the livability of residential towers and seamlessly integrate with their climate.
1 st
Use Native & Adapted Plants
Select from Austin’s native and welladapted species thrive with minimal water.
2 nd
Minimize Turf Areas
Replace traditional lawns with gravel gardens or low groundcovers.
3 rd
Design for Soil Health
Use berms and swales to direct and retain rainwater on-site.
4 th
Embrace Shade & Microclimates
Use canopy trees to shade plantings, reduce heat island effect and moderate soil temperatures.
5 th
Irrigate Efficiently
Use drip irrigation or bubblers at root zones—no overhead spray.
6 th
Layer and Structure
Planting
Create vertical interest with upright accent plants, midsize shrubs and ground plane with spreading natives.
Protect + Restore Soil Health
Avoid soil compaction and erosion, and restore disturbed soil to promote biodiversity and resilience.
Conserve + Restore Native Vegetation Manage
Invasive Species
Use native or adapted plants that require minimal irrigation and maintenance.
Develop long-term strategies to control or eliminate invasive species and encourage native ecosystems.
Reduce Water Usage Capture + Reuse Stormwater
Implement strategies to minimize potable water consumption, such as using drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation systems.
Use green infrastructure like rain gardens, bioswales, and permeable pavements to manage stormwater on-site.
Restore Hydrological Cycles
Design landscapes that mimic natural water flow patterns to recharge groundwater.
Recreation + Community Connection
Promotes outdoor activity, community engagement, and appreciation for the river’s value.
Blends ecological health with urban growth, attracting economic opportunities and tourism while preserving natural systems.
Enhanced Water Quality + Stormwater Management
Improves aquatic ecosystems, reduces pollution, and ensures the river supports wildlife and safe recreational use.
Riparian + Habitat Restoration
Stabilizes banks, prevents erosion, and fosters biodiversity, creating a thriving ecosystem.
Build Up
This method raises the finished surface above the structural slab. By building up with lightweight soil media, drainage layers, and planter walls, we achieve the required soil depth while maintaining slab integrity. Ideal for areas where slab modifications are not feasible.
Split the Difference Drop the Slab
Drop the slab by 18” in designated zones, while the planter walls are built up the remaining 18”. This balances structural economy with planting performance and preserves sightlines across the space—perfect for terraces where views are critical.
A full 36” recess in the structural slab allows for generous soil depths and planting that sits flush with adjacent hardscape. This method supports larger vegetation and creates a seamless indoor-outdoor experience but requires early structural coordination.
Texas’ diverse micro-climates require deep knowledge of regional soils, water conditions, and native plant palettes—critical for resilient, context-sensitive landscapes.
From ADA and pool regulations to navigating the complexities of new PUD processes, we’re well-versed in the technical codes that shape development in Texas. Our early involvement helps mitigate risk and streamline approvals.
As Texas cities grow rapidly, many lack clear or effective landscape codes. We’ve partnered with municipalities—particularly in fastgrowing regions—to help shape and improve policies that support thoughtful, well-integrated urban development.
Our team leads in designing innovative irrigation systems that address Texas’ water scarcity and site-specific drought conditions with sustainable, long-term solutions.
With decades of experience on podiums, amenity decks, and vertical construction, we bring proven solutions to the structural and spatial challenges unique to these projects.
By bidding many projects annually across Texas, we’ve built a robust internal database of construction costs. This allows us to produce accurate, region-specific cost estimates early in the design process—grounding our concepts in financial reality.
THE PARKER HOUSTON, TX
OUR PROJECTS
ST. REGIS RESIDENCES
The prestigious St. Regis Residences brand is debuting in Houston with a proposed 35-story luxury condominium tower on a four-acre site, offering stunning views of River Oaks, Memorial Park, Downtown Houston, and Buffalo Bayou. This development will feature state-of-the-art architecture with a focus on elegance and exclusivity, enhancing Houston’s skyline. The property will be beautifully landscaped with lush greenery, creating a serene and picturesque environment for residents. A private amenity area will provide exclusive facilities and services, including concierge assistance, valet parking, and 24-hour security, fostering a sense of community and luxury. The St. Regis Residences will set a new standard for upscale living in Houston, combining high-end finishes, smart home technology, and bespoke services. This development is poised to become a landmark, significantly enhancing Houston’s real estate market and offering an unparalleled living experience.
THE DETAILS
Client: Satya Size: 35-Stories
Location: Houston, TX
DIVERSE AMENITIES
PROJECTS
CONFIDENTIAL PROJECT
Located in the heart of downtown Houston, this development reimagines an office building into a dynamic mixed-use destination featuring hotel and residential living. As part of this transformation, the landscape design creates a seamless blend of timeless character and modern comfort. A thoughtfully designed arrival experience welcomes guests and residents alike, while a rooftop pool and amenity deck atop the existing garage provide elevated outdoor spaces for relaxation and connection. This project reflects a careful balance of preservation and innovation, enhancing the urban experience with greenery, gathering spaces and skyline views.
The Grayco South Shore multi-family project in East Austin is an 8-story mid-rise residential development currently under construction, offering stunning views of downtown Austin. Designed with luxury and convenience in mind, the project features a rooftop pool, a serene courtyard with a water fountain, an outdoor kitchen and dining area, and a dedicated dog park. Additionally, the complex includes mixed-use retail and restaurant spaces, providing residents with diverse amenities at their doorstep. Emphasizing sustainability, KW preserved several heritage trees along the streetscape and integrated two raingardens to collect and reuse rainwater throughout the property. This thoughtful design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes environmental responsibility. The Grayco South Shore project promises to deliver a blend of modern living and natural beauty, setting a new standard for urban residential developments in Austin.
Client: Grayco Size: 17-Stories Location: Austin, TX THE DETAILS
LOUNGE & GATHERING SPACES
MARKET SQUARE TOWER
Market Square Tower, a distinguished urban multifamily development situated in downtown Houston, has captivated global attention with its iconic 40-story high pool, featured on renowned platforms such as CNN, The Today Show, Daily Mail, Architectural Digest, Buzzfeed, and more, amassing over 2 billion views.
KW designed the exceptional amenities for this project that include two on-structure pool decks, providing residents with an unparalleled experience of luxury living amidst the dynamic Houston skyline. The 4th-floor pool deck offers heated pools, private cabanas, and grilling stations, while the 40th-floor infinity pool deck features a breathtaking glass-bottom pool suspended 8-feet over the building, brave swimmers can look down the sidewalk 40-floors below. Market Square Tower sets the benchmark for sophisticated urban living, combining unparalleled amenities with sweeping city views.
Client: Woodbranch MST Development, LLP Size: 463 Units Location: Houston, TX THE DETAILS
ROOFTOP AMENITY DECK
RONE RESIDENCES
Rone Residences sets a new standard for luxury multi-family living in Houston. Rising 12 stories at the intersection of River Oaks and Upper Kirby, this 209-unit community blends sophisticated design with urban convenience. At the heart of the development is a resort-style amenity deck featuring a 75-foot lap pool and tranquil cold plunge pools, offering residents a wellness-focused retreat above the city. Along Westheimer Road, the thoughtfully designed streetscape incorporates landscaped seating areas and transparent, pedestrian-friendly retail storefronts — fostering walkability, connectivity, and a seamless integration with the surrounding neighborhood.
THE DETAILS
Client: High Street Residential Size: 209 Units Location: Houston, TX
LUXURY POOLSIDE LIVING
1221 BROADWAY LOFTS
One of the first major residential developments near the iconic Pearl, 1221 Broadway Lofts is an award winning adaptive reuse project that includes 307 apartments and 10,000 SF of street level office space. In a commitment to revitalize downtown San Antonio, Area Real Estate took charge of an abandoned concrete superstructure project, and breathed new life and vision into it. KW incorporated on-site materials including simple concrete fixtures, complemented by beautiful, lush green landscaping.
The property complements the intimate green courtyards, ideal for outdoor picnics and gatherings, along with pools that offer a picturesque view of the iconic River Walk.
Experience the allure of the surrounding abundance—trees, natural light, fresh air, and soothing shades enveloping the entire complex.
Client: AREA Real Estate Size: 307 Units
Location: San Antonio, TX
STREETSCAPE & COURTYARDS
ON-STRUCTURE POOLS
PROJECTS
PARQ ON SPEER
Parq on Speer is a new mixed-use, urban residential development in the Golden Triangle neighborhood just outside of uptown Denver. The 16-story project includes 302 units, with 12,538 SF of retail at the street level anchored by an urban grocer and coffee shop at one corner and a restaurant at the other.
The development is an elevated take on upscale urban living, with an extensive amenity level that features a Club Room, Aqua Lounge, Fitness Center, Dog Park, Community Room, WiFi Lounge and Morning Room, all culminating in a 14,275 SF deck whose pool offers spectacular views of the Rockies beyond.
THE DETAILS
Client: Greystar Size: 302 Units Location: Denver, CO