Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Landscape Architecture Solutions in California
Since 1973, Callander Associates has been dedicated to shaping vibrant communities through innovative landscape architecture. Our team of certified professionals combines decades of experience with a collaborative approach, prioritizing context-sensitive design solutions that enhance public spaces and private developments. With expertise in urban planning, sustainable design, and grant acquisition, we deliver projects that meet technical requirements while fostering social connectivity. Our commitment to continuous education and specialized action groups ensures we address evolving community needs. From transportation corridors to educational facilities, our work reflects a deep understanding of ecological stewardship and human-centered design.We maintain strong client relationships through transparent communication and a focus on exceeding project expectations. Our construction management services guarantee quality control from concept to completion, while our LEED-certified professionals integrate sustainability into every project phase. With offices across California and Nevada, we serve municipalities, educational institutions, and private developers, transforming landscapes into functional, inspiring environments.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Urban Planning
Sustainable Design
Grant Acquisition
Construction Management
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- 50+ years designing award-winning public and private sector projects
- Multidisciplinary team with LEED, ASLA, and CPSI certified professionals
- Proven success in securing millions in project funding
- Specialized action groups for transportation, sustainability, and education sectors
- Full-service construction management with on-site quality control
Associations and certifications
- Bay Friendly Designers
- LEED Accredited Professionals
- SITES
- CPTED Professionals
- Qualified Stormwater Practitioners
What people say
Award-winning designs
Community-centered approach
Technical expertise
Creative solutions
Reliable delivery
Services
Landscape Architecture
We create innovative outdoor spaces blending aesthetics with functionality. Our licensed landscape architects design parks, plazas, and transportation corridors that enhance community interaction. With expertise in accessibility standards and environmental regulations, we deliver solutions that balance ecological responsibility with user needs. Our designs prioritize long-term sustainability while creating visually appealing environments.
Sustainable Planning
Our sustainability specialists integrate eco-friendly practices into every project. We implement stormwater management systems, native plant landscaping, and energy-efficient site solutions. By aligning projects with LEED and SITES certification requirements, we help clients achieve environmental goals. Our professionals conduct lifecycle analyses to ensure long-term ecological benefits while maintaining budgetary constraints.
Urban Development
We specialize in revitalizing urban environments through comprehensive master planning. Our team designs walkable communities with multi-modal transportation options. We create vibrant public spaces that stimulate economic growth while preserving local character. Our urban designers collaborate with municipalities to develop zoning strategies that balance density with quality of life considerations.
Grant Acquisition
Our experts identify and secure funding opportunities for public infrastructure projects. We prepare compelling grant applications for transportation corridors and recreational facilities. With a decade-long success record in securing millions in funding, we help clients leverage limited budgets. We maintain up-to-date knowledge of federal and state grant programs to maximize client opportunities.
Construction Management
Our certified construction managers ensure project quality throughout implementation. We provide bidding assistance, contract administration, and on-site inspections. Our professionals monitor budgets and timelines while maintaining design integrity. With technical expertise in landscape materials and construction methods, we resolve field issues efficiently to ensure successful project delivery.
People
Ben Woodside
President/Principal
With over 25 years of experience, Ben Woodside leads CALA's strategic direction while maintaining hands-on design involvement. He specializes in context-sensitive solutions and community engagement processes.
Marie Mai
Principal/COO
As COO and licensed landscape architect, Marie Mai manages firm operations and oversees technical excellence across projects. Her expertise spans from small-scale parks to complex multi-jurisdictional developments.
Dave Rubin
Principal/CFO
Dave Rubin brings extensive financial management experience to CALA while maintaining active involvement in athletic facility design projects across Northern California.
Melinda Wang
Project Manager
Melinda Wang specializes in urban design and community engagement, focusing on equitable public space development. She holds advanced certifications in sustainable design practices.
Shawn Sanfilippo
Construction Manager
As certified arborist and construction specialist, Shawn Sanfilippo oversees project implementation quality. He bridges design intent with construction realities through technical expertise in landscape systems.
Questions
What geographic areas does Callander Associates serve?
We operate across California with offices in Burlingame, Gold River, San Jose, and Reno, Nevada.
What project types does Callander Associates specialize in?
We focus on public parks, transportation corridors, educational facilities, sustainable developments, and mixed-use communities.
How does Callander Associates handle complex project funding?
Our team specializes in identifying grant opportunities and preparing successful applications for public infrastructure projects.
What makes CALA's design approach unique?
We combine 50+ years of experience with specialized action groups focusing on sustainability, education, and transportation connectivity.
Can Callander Associates manage projects through construction?
Yes, our certified construction managers provide quality control from design through project completion.
Are CALA's professionals certified?
Our team includes ASLA members, LEED Accredited Professionals, Certified Playground Safety Inspectors, and CPTED-certified experts.
