Water in the Built Environment: Rethinking Landscape Design and Irrigation
When most people think about landscape irrigation, they envision traditional systems: sprinkler heads, drip lines, and controllers. However, we aim to shift…
The Uplift
An uplift is a geological process by which the Earth’s crust is raised or elevated, often by tectonic forces, which impacts the topography and hydrology of a region. In Austin, the Balcones Fault zone is responsible for the uplift of the Edwards Plateau, which contributes to the distinctive landscape of the Texas Hill Country.
An uplift can also refer to a positive change in one’s emotional state, mood, or well-being. We hope that our blog will offer a combination of these things; a new way of viewing landscape architecture, and an uplifting experience.
Designing Cool
How Landscape Architecture Can Combat Extreme Heat As temperatures continue to rise across the globe, cities like Austin, Texas, are increasingly feeling…
The Vital Role of Trees in Carbon Sequestration
In the battle against climate change, trees are our silent but steadfast allies. They absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, store carbon…
Lifelong Play
At first glance, the concept of “play” may conjure images of children frolicking in the park or engaging in carefree activities. But…
Designed Ecology: Richard Moya Eastside Bus Plaza
The Richard Moya Eastside Bus Plaza, once a nondescript road median, has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis into a thriving designed ecology sanctuary…
From 10° to 110°: Landscapes for Austin’s Changing Climate
Surviving the Swings Freeze and Thaw: Unexpected Extremes Central Texas weather has always been unpredictable, but in recent years, the impact of…
A Perfect Day at The Garden of Cosmic Speculation
While celebrating Jennifer’s mom’s 80th birthday in Scotland in November 2023 – the entire family: Jen, her sister, her daughter, mother, and niece…
No Such Thing as a “No Maintenance” Landscape
The Myth, The Reality. We’re frequently asked to design a ‘no maintenance’ landscape and while this idea sounds appealing, the truth is…
Ilse: Pocket Prairies Taking Root in Austin
3 Pocket Prairies, 3 Different Approaches Our three principals at Studio Balcones have each created personal pocket prairies with their own distinct…