Business Details
Expert Landscape Architecture & Community Design in San Diego
Rooted In Place Landscape Architecture Landscape Architecture and Consulting specializes in creating vibrant neighborhood spaces and dynamic outdoor learning environments that foster connections between people and nature. Founded by Ilisa Goldman, a licensed landscape architect with nearly two decades of experience, our practice integrates local ecology, history, and culture into every project. Through a holistic community engagement process, we ensure that each space reflects the unique needs of its users and environment. Our services span from concept development to construction administration, including design consultations, workshops, and community-building events. We prioritize cross-sector collaboration, working closely with clients, contractors, and stakeholders to deliver high-quality, sustainable projects.Recognized for excellence, we have received multiple ASLA awards and grants that underscore our commitment to innovative design. Our work extends beyond aesthetics, focusing on enhancing children's outdoor experiences and promoting mental and physical health through age-appropriate, nature-centric environments. As a leader in the Children and Nature movement, we educate communities and advocate for the transformative power of well-designed outdoor spaces. Our approachable, transparent methodology ensures that complex concepts are accessible to all stakeholders, fostering a sense of ownership and community pride. With projects ranging from educational environments to public parks, we remain dedicated to creating spaces that inspire play, learning, and environmental stewardship.
Services
Landscape Design
Community Engagement
Outdoor Learning Environments
Construction Documentation
Design Consultations
Workshops & Charettes
Project Management
Highlights and features
- We have nearly two decades of experience in landscape architecture with a focus on children's environments.
- Our holistic community engagement process ensures spaces reflect local ecology and user needs.
- We implement award-winning, sustainable design solutions recognized by ASLA awards.
- Our team collaborates with cross-sector professionals to deliver comprehensive projects.
- We provide transparent communication and accessible explanations of complex design concepts.
Associations and certifications
- ASLA (American Society of Landscape Architects)
What people say
Vibrant neighborhood spaces
Holistic community engagement
Award-winning sustainable designs
Expertise in children's environments
Transparent communication
Services
Landscape Design
We create custom landscape designs that integrate local ecology, history, and community needs. Our approach prioritizes sustainable materials and functional spaces for play, learning, and social interaction. Projects include public parks, schoolyards, and community gathering areas.
Community Engagement
Our process includes workshops, charrettes, and build events to involve stakeholders in design decisions. This ensures spaces reflect community values and foster a sense of ownership through collaborative input from residents and professionals.
Outdoor Learning Environments
We design nature-focused outdoor classrooms and play areas that support child development. Features include ecological gardens, habitat zones, and interactive elements that promote environmental stewardship and hands-on learning experiences.
Construction Documentation
Detailed technical drawings and specifications guide every project phase, ensuring accurate implementation of designs. Our documentation covers materials, layouts, and compliance with local regulations for seamless construction processes.
Design Consultations
We provide tailored advice on space planning, sustainability strategies, and community integration. Our consultations help clients refine visions, address challenges, and achieve functional, aesthetically pleasing outdoor environments aligned with their goals.
People
Ilisa Goldman
Founder & Landscape Architect
Ilisa Goldman is a licensed landscape architect with nearly two decades of experience creating nature-centric spaces. She founded Rooted In Place Landscape Architecture to connect communities with outdoor environments through collaborative, sustainable design solutions.
Questions
What types of projects does Rooted In Place specialize in?
We focus on neighborhood public spaces, outdoor learning environments, and community-driven landscape designs that emphasize nature and local culture.
How does the community engagement process work?
We conduct workshops, charrettes, and build events to involve stakeholders in design decisions, ensuring spaces reflect community needs and foster ownership.
Do you work outside San Diego?
While based in San Diego, our expertise extends to surrounding areas. We prioritize projects that align with our mission of creating nature-connected spaces.
What certifications does the team hold?
Our founder is a licensed landscape architect and member of ASLA, with expertise in sustainable design and children's outdoor environments.
Can you help with schoolyard design projects?
Yes, we specialize in educational environments including ecological schoolyards, habitat gardens, and play spaces that support child development and learning.
How are sustainability principles integrated into designs?
We use native plants, permeable materials, and water-efficient strategies while designing spaces that promote environmental stewardship and long-term ecological health.
