Business Details
Immersive Experiential Design Services
Deneen Powell Atelier is a San Diego-based firm specializing in immersive experiential design through the integration of landscape architecture, environmental graphic design, interpretation, and sculpture. Founded by Jeri Deneen and Jon Powell, our multidisciplinary approach emphasizes creating cohesive, educational, and memorable visitor experiences. With over three decades of combined expertise, we deliver innovative designs for gardens, zoos, and cultural spaces globally. Our team holds prestigious certifications, including licenses in six states and awards from the American Society of Landscape Architects.Recognized as a woman-owned small business, we prioritize sustainability, artistic synergy, and client collaboration. Our portfolio showcases award-winning projects like the Desert Living Center and Tiger Trail at San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We combine technical precision with creative storytelling to transform spaces into engaging environments that reflect local identity and ecological harmony.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Public Art Installations
Master Planning
Environmental Graphic Design
Interpretive Signage
Sculpture Design
Zoo Exhibit Planning
Xeriscape Gardens
Visitor Experience Design
Animal Habitats
Highlights and features
- Our team holds licenses in six U.S. states and certifications like Certified Irrigation Auditor.
- Woman-owned business with over 30 years of combined experience in landscape architecture.
- Recipient of national awards from the American Society of Landscape Architects.
- Specialize in global projects integrating art, ecology, and educational design.
- Proven expertise in water-conservation and xeriscape garden design.
Services
Landscape Architecture
We create functional, sustainable landscapes combining ecological principles with aesthetic innovation. Our approach integrates plantings, hardscapes, and water features to enhance natural environments while addressing client needs. Specializing in water-conservation techniques, we deliver award-winning gardens and public spaces that reflect regional identity.
Public Art Installations
Our public art merges sculpture with environmental context to create immersive visitor experiences. We design site-specific installations that reinforce educational themes and cultural narratives, enhancing spaces like zoos, museums, and botanical gardens through creative material use and interactive elements.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive plans guiding long-term development of parks, campuses, and recreational areas. Our master plans prioritize accessibility, sustainability, and community engagement, ensuring cohesive growth while preserving ecological and cultural assets across diverse project scales.
Interpretive Signage
Our interpretive signage systems combine clear navigation with educational storytelling. By integrating graphics, typography, and tactile elements, we create wayfinding solutions that enhance visitor understanding of natural, historical, and cultural contexts within parks and institutions.
Zoo Exhibit Planning
We design zoo exhibits prioritizing animal welfare and visitor engagement while mimicking natural ecosystems. Our habitats incorporate enrichment features and conservation messaging, as seen in award-winning projects like Tiger Trail at San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Elephant Odyssey.
People
Jeri Deneen
Founder
Creator of Immersive Experiential Learning, Jeri Deneen combines landscape architecture, art, and interpretation to craft engaging public spaces. Her multidisciplinary approach shapes culturally significant, award-winning designs globally.
Jon Powell
Landscape Architect
With 32 years of experience, Jon Powell specializes in landscape architecture and water conservation. Licensed in six states, he integrates sustainable practices into award-winning designs for botanical gardens and public parks nationwide.
Questions
What types of projects does Deneen Powell Atelier specialize in?
We focus on landscape architecture, public art installations, zoo exhibits, and interpretive signage for cultural and ecological spaces globally.
Are your designs environmentally sustainable?
Yes. Our projects incorporate water conservation, native plants, and eco-friendly materials to ensure sustainability while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
How do you collaborate with clients during the design process?
We prioritize client collaboration through workshops, iterative design reviews, and transparent communication to ensure projects meet specific goals and community needs.
Do you work internationally?
Yes. While based in San Diego, we've completed award-winning projects in Atlanta, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and internationally.
Can I visit one of your designed spaces?
Yes. Our portfolio includes accessible public spaces like the Desert Living Center in Las Vegas and the Water Conservation Garden in San Diego.
How do you incorporate art into landscape design?
We integrate sculptures, interpretive graphics, and architectural elements to create multisensory environments that educate and engage visitors through visual storytelling.
