THAT CAPTIVATES HIGH DESIGN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
FIRM BACKGROUND
KW Landscape Architects (KW) is a professional landscape architecture firm with offices in Austin, Houston and San Antonio. Founded in 1991 by Thad Kudela and Darin Weinheimer, the firm has grown from a two-man shop to a thriving firm that has completed over 3,800 projects. With the retirement of Thad Kudela in 2021, long-time employee and Central Texas lead Wesley Salazar was named Partner. Together, Darin and Wesley are working to lay a strong foundation for KW’s future by training the next generation of leadership, continuing to create meaningful partnerships with our clients, and design exceptional outdoor spaces that authentically connect people to their environment.
We are ingrained with a dedicated, hardworking, and people-focused culture, providing an exceptional customer experience. Therefore, we only take on projects where we can offer the highest level of quality service to stay true to our motto: “Building the Exceptional, Together.®”
FIRM FACTS:
LLC | 33 YEARS IN BUSINESS | 50+ EMPLOYEES | 3 OFFICES NATIONWIDE
SERVICES:
• Landscape Architecture
• Park and Trail Systems
• Irrigation Design
• Reclaimed Water Irrigation
• Construction Administration
• Site Planning
• Site Design
• Master Planning
• Project Management
• On-Structure Landscape Design
• Urban Design
• Pool Design
OFFICE LOCATIONS:
Houston, TX (HQ): 6925 Portwest Drive, Suite 100 | Houston, Texas 77429
Austin, TX: 2400 E. Cesar Chavez Street, Suite 214 | Austin, Texas 78702
San Antonio, TX: 4039 Broadway St. | San Antonio, Texas 78209
KW LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS PARTNERS: DARIN WEINHEIMER & WESLEY SALAZAR
TEAM LEADERS
MEET THE TEAM
Our URBAN LIFESTYLE STUDIO has unrivaled multi-family 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-grade pool for a garden or wrap style complex or an on-structure 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 36 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 multi-family projects over his three decade career, Darin provides a wealth of knowledge for each community we design. In addition his experience also includes master-planned communities, healthcare, education, on-structure pool decks, mixed-use, retail centers, office buildings, hospitality, public parks, splash pads, churches, and residential design.
WESLEY SALAZAR, PLA
Partner
wsalazar@kwtexas.com
As Partner and Central Texas Lead at KW, Wesley brings over 18 years of experience to the table, spanning diverse projects such as multi-family developments, master-planned communities, higher education, parks, and mixed-use projects. He prioritizes collaboration, diversity, efficiency, and excellence in his work, emphasizing effective communication as a key to success. With a commitment to innovation and a keen eye for detail, he consistently delivers transformative solutions that leave a lasting impact on the built environment.
TRAVIS TRIOLA, PLA
Director of Urban Lifestyle ttriola@kwtexas.com
Travis is a Texas-registered Professional Landscape Architect and the Director of KW’s Urban Lifestyle Studio. With 12 years of experience in the field, Travis brings a wealth of expertise to every project, particularly specializing in multifamily developments. His previous leadership of KW’s Construction Administration Team honed his meticulous eye for detail, ensuring that construction documents are clear and precise, leading to exceptional project outcomes. In his current role, Travis also oversees all of our Project Managers, ensuring that their work adheres to the highest standards and processes.
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.
CLIFFORD SCHAEFER
Project Executive cschaefer@kwtexas.com
Cliff joined KW as an intern in 2018, and later joined us as a full-time Project Architect after graduating from Texas A&M University in May 2019. He is now an executive leader for our newest office in Austin. His love for designing outdoor landscapes for different generations to enjoy has made him a great addition to the KW team. Cliff handles multiple projects from design to construction and has experience in several project types all along the I-35 corridor such as, multifamily developments, office, industrial, master planned communities, retail and more.
ARNOLD GONZALES
Construction Administration Manager agonzales@kwtexas.com
Drawing from his extensive industry expertise, Arnold plays a pivotal role in KW’s Construction Administration team, focusing on the meticulous review of submittals and RFI’s. He is a constant presence on project sites, where he diligently oversees the implementation of our designs, ensuring that they align with our quality standards. His keen eye for detail comes into play as he reviews various designs with our project teams, meticulously assessing their clarity and constructibility. He aims to ensure that for every challenge, there is a well-considered solution, fostering smooth and efficient project progression.
HIGH DESIGN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
CURATED BRANDING AND IDENTITY
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION TEAM
COST ANALYSIS, PLANNING & TRACKING
BIDDING & CONTRACT NEGOTIATION
IN-HOUSE
IRRIGATION DESIGN
BROADSTONE JORDAN RANCH HOUSTON, TX
WHAT WE DESIGN
Pushing Boundaries with Our Design and Services
• Cutting Edge Pool Design
• Outdoor Dining
• Interactive Dog Parks
• Multi-Modal Streetscape Design
• On-Structure Amenity Decks
• Outdoor Lounge Areas
• Innovative Water Fountains
• LEED Certified Landscape Designs
• Biergartens
• Hike and Bike Trail Connections
• Sport Court Design
• Native & Adaptive Planting
• Courtyards
• Bespoke Shade Structures
• Yoga Lawns
3D MODELING & RENDERING
Our team of designers provides marketing-level services that include color renderings and 3D models for your project. With our help, you can bring your designs to life and visualize your ideas in a lifelike and immersive manner. Our team will continuously employ these tools during the design process to assess the dimensions, proportions, and optimal placement of design elements.
IN-HOUSE IRRIGATION
We have a team of licensed irrigation experts who are well-equipped to adjust to any last-minute changes that may arise during the design and construction phases. As part of our standard scope of services, we always perform irrigation design in-house, unless the client has other instructions. This allows us to ensure the highest quality and attention to detail in our work.
CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION
Your Partner From Design to Delivery
When construction is initiated, our dedicated Construction Administration (CA) Team can be on-site periodically during the construction process to uphold high-quality installation standards. They are connected throughout the project but their role begins during the construction documentation phase and bid advertisement, to warranty inspection and final punch walks, ensuring that the contractor is providing the correct softscape and hardscape materials. Additionally, our CA Team will consistently communicate with selected contractors to promptly process submittals, RFI’s, and pay applications.
Our CA Team regularly performs field visits to ensure materials and installation meets specifications. They are also available to tag trees and review plant and hardscape materials. Field reports are prepared after each visit, itemizing any potential issues. Closeout inspections are also provided at the end of the construction phase.
AUTHENTIC BY DESIGN
Designing exceptional outdoor spaces that reflect a city’s unique character is essential to our process. We focus on integrating distinctive elements that connect the project to its local surroundings. When designing multi-family amenities, our aim is to design appealing spaces for residents to enjoy with their pets, family, and friends. By working closely with owners and architects, we seamlessly blend architectural elements with the natural environment. Additionally, our use of native plants and sustainable design ensures these outdoor spaces remain vibrant and enjoyable for years to come. This authentic approach not only benefits residents but also promotes a stronger sense of community and environmental stewardship.
ENGAGING & COLLABORATIVE DESIGN PROCESS
LANDSCAPE DESIGNED FOR LONGEVITY EXCEPTIONAL OUTDOOR AMENITIES
OUR PROJECTS
BROADSTONE JORDAN RANCH
Located in the vibrant westside of Houston, Broadstone Jordan Ranch redefines modern farmhouse living. Nestled within this master-planned community and one of the nation’s fastestgrowing areas, Broadstone Jordan Ranch highlights connectivity and relaxation.
Designed by KW, the community features a resort-style pool complete with a refreshing cold spa, inviting outdoor lounge areas equipped with firepits, and exclusive pool houses for added privacy. Additionally, residents can connect with their neighbors and their furry companions at the community dog parks. The landscape serves as both backdrop and inspiration by basking in the sun by the pool or simply enjoying the fresh air. Every moment spent outdoors is an opportunity to connect with nature and savor the beauty of this exceptional community. Whether it’s unwinding by the pool, enjoying the outdoors, or staying active in the fitness center, residents can effortlessly curate their perfect lifestyle in this exceptional community.
THE DETAILS
Client: Alliance Residential Company Location: Brookshire, TX
sun deck
lounge area
THE DETAILS
Client: Freehold Communities Location: Schertz, TX
HOMESTEAD
Nestled in the picturesque Cibolo/Schertz area just outside San Antonio, TX, Homestead embodies a harmonious blend of community and nature. Leveraging KW’s expertise, we crafted a cohesive branding strategy to establish Homestead’s unique identity. Phase I enhancements included striking entry signage, captivating monuments, and a roundabout entry adorned with public art sculptures. Phase II unfolds with a meticulously planned recreational haven, featuring a lap lane pool, vibrant splash pad, and a community playground area. An open-air pavilion invites gatherings, while a serene community garden and nature scape offer moments of tranquility. The sprawling landscape boasts nearly 5 miles of hiking and jogging trails, dotted with ponds and parks for residents to explore. Thoughtful design extends to parking lots and vehicular drop-off areas, ensuring convenience and accessibility throughout the community. Homestead emerges as a haven where residents can thrive amidst nature’s embrace.
CANDELA
Previously a thriving plant nursery, Candela’s Biergarten, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a spacious and inviting communal area. Repurposed Live Oak trees have been thoughtfully integrated into the design, providing natural shading and a warm atmosphere for the community. Our team’s goal was to create an outdoor space that enhances community wellbeing by fostering genuine connections with nature, each other, and oneself to promote a healthier, happier, and more vibrant community life.
THE DETAILS gathering space
Client: Johnson Development Architect: Studio Red Location: Richmond, TX
multi-purpose event lawn
natural shade
THE DETAILS
Client: Perry Homes Location: San Antonio, TX
KALLISON RANCH
Through the scenic landscape of Northwest San Antonio, Texas, the 1,600-acre Kallison Ranch master planned community spotlights a wealth of family-friendly amenities designed to cater to every resident. The resort-style pool and lounge area invites the community into a world of relaxation and rejuvenation to unwind beneath the warm Texan sun. The playground design was thoughtfully crafted to inspire imagination and foster outdoor play for children and the dedicated dog park was designed to encourage furry friends to run around, play, and enjoy the outdoor environment.
In every corner of Kallison Ranch, from the shimmering pool to the lush playgrounds, from the tranquil fishing pond to the lively dog park, the essence of community thrives. Here, amidst the rolling hills and Texas skies, residents find not just a place to live, but a place to truly belong—a place where every amenity, every moment, is crafted with their happiness and well-being in mind.
shade structure
OUR PROCESS
INNOVATORS IN DESIGN
DESIGN PROCESS
Our collective experience has enabled us to develop a proprietary design process. As a leading landscape architecture firm, we differentiate ourselves by providing a fully immersive and collaborative approach that allows our clients to be actively involved in the decision-making and creative process. By working closely with our clients, we ensure that the end result is a space that truly reflects their vision and preferences. We believe that this level of collaboration and immersion is essential in creating designs that are truly exceptional and meaningful.
COLLABORATION
We work in partnership with our clients, consultants, and partners to achieve a common goal.
RESEARCH
Research allows us to gain a better understanding of the project site and its relationship to the surrounding environment.
CONTEXT
Context reinforces our research and applies the principle of connectivity, showing us how we can connect the past, present and future of a project.
ENGAGEMENT
Engagement starts with a collaborative meeting to provide a clear direction for a project through a visioning session and design charrette.
ENVIRONMENT
Protect the assets on-site and restore the landscape to be climate responsive.
IDENTITY
Identity helps communicate the personality attributes of a project to reinforce design aesthetics, image, and culture.
PLANNING
Planning creates room for data-driven strategies to be formulated so the project team can make informed decisions.
PROGRAMMING
Programming ensures a space can be used to its maximum potential connecting people to their environment.
DESIGN
Traditional materials, a keen awareness of the environment, and classic principles drive exceptional design.
IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation is the execution of our entire design process and when the decision or plan goes into effect.
ILLUSTRATIVE SITE PLAN
Project: Riceland Client: McGrath Real Estate Partners Location: Mont Belvieu, TX
3D DESIGN STUDY
Project: Stonehill Client: DR Horton
Location: San Antonio, TX MARKETING RENDERING
Project: St. Regis Condo Tower Client: Satya Location: Houston, TX
MARKETING RENDERING
OUR VISION
gathering spaces
outdoor dining
outdoor bathing
wellness
CONCEPT 1
This option provides separation of public and private outdoor amenity spaces. Consolidation of event space, pool and outdoor wellness are to the north east portion of the site.
Overnight guests would have access to bathing, kitchen and small gathering space areas.
CONCEPT 2
The goal of this option is to create a trail network connecting outdoor nodes of amenity programming. This would evenly distribute glamping across the entire site and give all users easy access to the outdoor kitchen, bathing and wellness amenities.
