Our Landscape Design Approach
ADLA Studio is a landscape architecture and construction firm that merges horticultural knowledge, technical building skill, and fine art sensibilities to create site-specific, inspirational gardens. We specialize in residential gardens, private estates and commercial landscape design. We provide complete design-build services from conceptual schematics through development to final installation.
Motivated by our passion for nature, art and architecture, our work seeks to balance our client’s individual lifestyles with the nature of their site. We regard the built environment as the ultimate medium through which ecology, functionality and aesthetics culminate into artistic expression. By weaving together the poetic elements that define landscapes such as color, texture, light, and atmosphere, we strive to create spatial compositions that foster a deeper connection to the outside world.
Our approach is illustrated through the process of thoughtful observation, listening and collaboration. We envision each site’s inherent possibilities and through the methods of careful plant and material selection and attention to detail. Our work seeks to elegantly choreograph spaces that reflect our client’s desires. Landscapes are dynamic and ephemeral and we pay special attention to seasonality and how each design will evolve and mature over time. Our experienced gardeners can provide specialized seasonal maintenance over the lifetime of each landscape so that the integrity of the design is sustained through the years.
TYLER PORTERFIELD – MLA PRINCIPAL
Tyler has a background in fine art, music, and construction. He developed his interest in landscape architecture at the University of Georgia in the late nineties. He has a passion for vast and dramatic landscapes, which led him from his native city of Athens, Georgia to travel throughout the Rockies and the high desert and mountainous regions of Oregon. He earned a bachelor’s degree in fine art and after moving to Austin in 2004 he worked for an environmental design company where he gained a strong understanding of Texas’ ecological systems and native vegetation. Tyler received a master’s in landscape architecture from the University of Texas in 2009. His specific interest and expertise centers around engagement in design through graphic representation, detailing, and the relationship between material and texture in the built environment.
SARA PIERCE – PLA LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
Sara has explored landscapes through a variety of ecological, cultural and historical processes. Her undergraduate work in landscape ecology provided the foundation for her study of landscape systems and the creative use of plants in design. A desire to explore a more humanistic approach to landscape led her to pursue an M.A. in anthropology where her research focused on ethnobotany and the politics of water in Texas. She went on to earn a master’s degree in landscape architecture from the University of Texas. Sara has a passion for place-making and her appreciation of the Austin landscape has been enhanced through years spent working in planning and design for the parks department and at local landscape architecture firms.
brian pearson – project manager
Brian grew up in central Pennsylvania, where he spent his afternoons helping his family build their home from the ground up, an early education in craftsmanship, problem-solving, and the skilled trades. He moved to Austin in 1989 and has called it home ever since.
A lifelong musician, Brian spent many years as a touring performer and tour manager before bringing his creative sensibility into the landscape. More than 20 years ago, inspired by the response to his own garden, he transitioned into landscape design. With a sharp eye for detail, a deep respect for structural integrity, and a thoughtful approach to design, Brian brings clarity, foresight, and care to every installation
Stephanie Lott – Operations INtegrator
Stephanie brings a strong background in client-facing roles across diverse industries, paired with business management experience in wellness and hospitality settings. With a natural affinity for people and relationship building, she focuses on cultivating supportive culture, organized operations, and efficient workflows at ADLA Studio.
Gilbert – SITE Foreman
Gilbert brings over 20 years of construction and landscaping experience to the ADLA team, having built his career from the ground up after moving to Texas from Miami, Florida. With a sharp eye for detail and a true “jack of all trades” skill set, he excels at managing on-site logistics and ensuring the quality and craftsmanship of every build. He truly enjoys being in nature both on and off the jobsite and in his leisure time enjoys relaxing and fishing. Gilbert is a dedicated father of four—his daughter is preparing for college, two sons are professional chefs, and another is a structural welder.