Business Details
29 Years
experience
Award-Winning Landscape Architecture & Horticulture Consultancy
Founded in 1997, K Dakin Design is a landscape architecture and horticulture consultancy that merges artistic vision with ecological expertise. Our practice centers on creating immersive, plant-driven environments that engage all five senses while prioritizing sustainability and site-specific storytelling. With over 20 years of experience, we specialize in residential gardens, green roofs, public spaces, and commercial projects, emphasizing collaboration between designer, client, and natural context. Our work integrates permaculture principles, biodynamic gardening knowledge, and a deep understanding of plant ecosystems to craft spaces that are both aesthetically resonant and ecologically functional.Recognized for our innovative approach, we have completed over 100 residential landscapes, two major museum roof gardens, and numerous commercial projects, while maintaining active roles in industry education through publications and lectures. Our Colorado-based team holds professional licenses and certifications that affirm our commitment to excellence in landscape architecture and sustainable design practices.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Green Roof Design
Residential Gardens
Public Spaces
Horticulture Consultancy
Estate Master Planning
Pollinator Gardens
Rewilding Projects
Commercial Landscaping
Art-Integrated Design
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of experience in landscape architecture and horticulture
- Plant-driven designs that integrate ecological and artistic principles
- Collaborative approach involving clients and site-specific contexts
- Expertise in permaculture, biodynamic gardening, and green roof systems
- Co-authors of industry-standard publication 'The Professional Design Guide to Green Roofs'
Associations and certifications
- Colorado Landscape Architecture License #630
- Small Business Enterprise (Federal)
- Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (Federal)
- Women Business Enterprise (Federal)
What people say
Innovative ecological approach
Exceptional plant expertise
Artistic vision realized
Long-term stewardship focus
Collaborative process
Services
Landscape Architecture
Creating immersive outdoor environments that integrate ecological principles with artistic vision. Our approach combines site-specific storytelling, plant-driven design, and sustainable practices to develop spaces that engage all five senses. Specializing in transforming residential estates, commercial properties, and public spaces into functional ecosystems that evolve with their natural surroundings.
Green Roof Design
Developing sustainable rooftop ecosystems that combine aesthetic appeal with environmental benefits. Our designs incorporate native vegetation, efficient irrigation systems, and lightweight growing mediums to create functional green spaces. These installations reduce urban heat islands, improve building insulation, and support local pollinator populations while maintaining visual harmony with surrounding architecture.
Residential Gardens
Crafting personalized outdoor living spaces that reflect homeowners' lifestyles and environmental contexts. Services include edible gardens, meditation spaces, and ecological restoration projects that merge functionality with artistic expression. Our process emphasizes long-term plant health, seasonal interest, and integration with existing structures to create enduring outdoor environments.
Public Spaces
Designing accessible, ecologically responsible public landscapes that foster community engagement. Projects focus on creating multi-functional spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with environmental education. Our approach incorporates durable materials, native plantings, and interactive elements to create spaces that evolve naturally while serving diverse public needs.
Horticulture Consultancy
Providing specialized plant knowledge for landscape projects of all scales. Services include plant selection, maintenance protocols, and ecological system design. Our expertise spans permaculture principles, biodynamic gardening techniques, and climate-appropriate vegetation selection to ensure long-term landscape vitality and biodiversity enhancement.
People
Karla Dakin
Founder & Principal Landscape Architect
Landscape architect and artist with 25+ years of experience, specializing in plant-driven design. Licensed in Colorado, author of industry publications, and internationally recognized speaker on green roof systems and ecological design. Combines fine art background with horticultural expertise to create immersive landscapes.
Questions
What makes K. Dakin Design's approach unique?
We integrate artistic vision with ecological expertise, creating landscapes that engage all five senses while prioritizing sustainability and site-specific storytelling.
What project types do you specialize in?
We focus on residential gardens, green roofs, public spaces, and commercial landscapes, with particular expertise in plant-driven designs and ecological restoration projects.
How does the design process work?
Our collaborative process begins with site analysis and client consultations, followed by concept development, detailed planning, and implementation oversight to ensure design integrity throughout project execution.
Do you work outside Colorado?
While based in Colorado, we've completed projects across the Rocky Mountain region and collaborate with out-of-state clients through virtual consultations and partner networks.
What sustainability practices do you employ?
We incorporate native plants, water-efficient irrigation, recycled materials, and permaculture principles to create self-sustaining ecosystems that minimize environmental impact.
Can you retrofit existing landscapes?
Yes, we specialize in transforming existing spaces through ecological upgrades, plant palette renewal, and functional design improvements that align with current sustainability standards.
