Business Details
50+ Years
experience
San Diego's Premier Landscape Architecture Firm
Founded in 1954 by Harriett Barnhart Wimmer, our firm pioneered landscape architecture in San Diego as the first woman-owned practice in the field. Over seven decades, we have shaped the region's iconic landscapes through projects like SeaWorld, Seaport Village, and UC San Diego's campus planning. Our legacy includes mentoring generations of landscape architects and earning national recognition through ASLA Fellowships and the ASLA National Landmark Award.We combine historical expertise with innovative design principles, maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship and community impact. Our work reflects a deep understanding of San Diego's unique geography and cultural needs, creating spaces that balance functionality with aesthetic excellence. Though no longer accepting new projects, we continue contributing to nonprofit initiatives and sharing our expertise through educational consultations.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Environmental Planning
Master Planning
Urban Design
Historic Preservation
Details
- Year established: 1954
Highlights and features
- We have over 70 years of experience shaping San Diego's urban landscape
- Our portfolio includes 20+ ASLA award-winning projects
- We pioneered landscape architecture education in Southern California
- Our team holds three ASLA Fellow distinctions
- We designed UC San Diego's campus master plan over 20 years
Associations and certifications
- American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
Services
Landscape Architecture
Our landscape architecture practice creates functional, sustainable environments that enhance urban and natural spaces. We specialize in integrating ecological principles with aesthetic design to develop parks, campuses, and commercial properties. With over 70 years of local expertise, we deliver solutions that respect regional character while meeting modern needs.
Environmental Planning
Environmental planning services focus on sustainable development and resource conservation. We create master plans balancing growth with ecological preservation, addressing water management, habitat restoration, and climate resilience. Our team has shaped major San Diego projects like the San Diego River restoration and UCSD's sustainability initiatives.
Master Planning
Master planning develops comprehensive, long-term visions for urban areas and institutions. We create phased implementation strategies that guide growth while maintaining environmental integrity. Our work includes UCSD's 20-year campus development and San Marcos Civic Center's multi-phase expansion.
Urban Design
Urban design services create cohesive, livable cityscapes through integrated public spaces and infrastructure. We specialize in waterfront revitalization, downtown redevelopment, and transit-oriented design. Notable projects include Seaport Village and Embarcadero Marina Park, which redefined San Diego's waterfront.
Historic Preservation
Historic preservation maintains cultural landscapes while adapting them for modern use. We apply specialized techniques to protect significant sites through material conservation and contextual design. Our work includes preserving mid-century modern landscapes and restoring historic gardens in La Jolla.
People
Harriett Barnhart Wimmer
Founder
Stanford and University of Oregon-educated landscape architect who founded the firm in 1954 as San Diego's first woman-owned practice. Pioneered modern landscape architecture in Southern California while mentoring future industry leaders.
Joe Yamada
Partner
Berkeley-trained designer who joined in 1954 and became Wimmer's partner. Specialized in landform and hardscape design, shaping iconic projects like SeaWorld and UCSD's campus. Named ASLA Fellow in 1979 for professional contributions.
Pat Caughey
Principal
Joined in 1984 and became partner in 1995. Expanded the firm's reach while maintaining its legacy. Served as ASLA President 2006-07 and earned ASLA Fellowship in 2004 for advancing landscape architecture practice.
Jenny Caughey
Partner
Business partner since 1995, managing firm operations and community initiatives. Focuses on nonprofit projects and preserving the firm's historical legacy while supporting educational outreach programs.
Dennis Otsuji
Senior Designer
Recognized expert in sustainable design who worked on award-winning projects like Alga Norte Community Park. Specializes in creating environmentally responsive landscapes that reflect regional character and community needs.
Questions
What is Wimmer Yamada and Caughey's most significant contribution to San Diego?
We designed landmark projects like SeaWorld, Seaport Village, and UCSD's campus master plan, defining San Diego's urban landscape through innovative, sustainable design.
Are you still accepting new projects?
We are not taking on new projects but remain active in community initiatives and educational consultations about landscape architecture practice.
How has the firm influenced landscape architecture education?
We mentored generations of professionals, including multiple ASLA award winners, and helped establish San Diego's ASLA chapter to advance professional standards.
What awards has the firm received?
We earned multiple ASLA Merit and Honor Awards, the ASLA National Landmark Award in 2011, and Collaborative Arts Awards from the American Institute of Architects.
Can I access historical project documentation?
Project archives are available through special collections at UC San Diego and the American Society of Landscape Architects' historical records.
Do you offer speaking engagements about your work?
We occasionally participate in educational events about landscape architecture history and sustainable design principles from our practice.
