Our Landscape Design Approach
ADLA Studio is an ecological Austin-based design-build landscape architecture studio specializing in residential landscapes and concept-to-construction delivery. We merge 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 construction installation.
ADLA collaborates with homeowners and architects to design landscapes that integrate seamlessly with the architecture of a site. 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 bring them to life through careful plant and material selection, thoughtful detailing, and a deep understanding of place. Our work seeks to elegantly choreograph spaces that reflect our clients’ 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 throughout the lifetime of each landscape, helping ensure the integrity of the design is sustained for years to come.
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.
Stephanie Lott – Chief of Staff
Stephanie’s background spans hospitality, wellness, experiential events, and business operations, giving her a unique ability to see both the big picture and the many moving parts required to bring it to life. For more than a decade, Stephanie has led yoga classes, travel retreats, workshops, and outdoor experiences, developing a deep appreciation for how thoughtful environments shape how people gather and connect. At ADLA, she helps keep the vision front and center while building the systems, communication, and accountability that keep projects and teams moving forward.
Todd Jenkins – Studio Director
Beginning his formal education in art and architecture, Todd Jenkins felt compelled to transition to Landscape Architecture as a path to better explore the dynamic nature of the built environment. Since receiving his Bachelors of Landscape Architecture from Texas A & M in 2000, Todd has worked for, and lead, high end residential design-build firms in Houston, Southern California, and Austin. Over these two decades of professional practice, he has gained experience working on all aspects of the design build process, from schematic design to construction project management. An avid painter and still a believer in the value of hand-drawn graphics, Todd’s ability to meld the artistic with the functional has led him to join the like-minded partners at ADLA.
Moira Bering – Project Manager
Moira studied Landscape Architecture at Texas Tech University and brings a deep appreciation for planting design and material richness to her work at ADLA Studio. Raised in a family of nurserymen, she developed a strong horticultural foundation through hands-on nursery experience before beginning her career in landscape architecture.
Thoughtful outdoor spaces emerge from careful attention to detail and intentional design, an approach that informs her work on every project. Outside the studio, she maintains an active painting practice that informs her sensitivity to color, composition, and atmosphere.
Brian Pearson – Lead Technical Designer
Brian’s appreciation for craftsmanship began early, helping his family build their home from the ground up in central Pennsylvania. That hands-on foundation continues to inform his approach to construction, design, and problem-solving today.
A lifelong musician, Brian spent years as a touring performer and tour manager before bringing his creative sensibility into the landscape. Inspired by the impact of his own garden, he transitioned into landscape design more than two decades ago. As ADLA’s Lead Technical Designer, Brian combines creativity, precision, and technical expertise to help transform ideas into thoughtfully detailed and buildable landscapes.
Marcos Jorge Rafael – Construction Manager
Marcos’s diverse experience across construction, project management, and the arts allows him to approach every project with creativity, precision, and a comprehensive perspective. In addition to his construction expertise, Marcos has a strong background in public and residential art design and installation. He has “spearheaded” several large-scale sculptures for residential homes and municipal parks, including work on Mel Chin’s “CoCobijos” in San Antonio. He has also held multiple solo art exhibitions showcasing his original work.
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.