Our master planning process involves the identification, removal, and utilization of invasive plant materials on site. For example, Christmasberry (Schinus terebinthifolia) is a very common invasive hardwood species in the dry and mesic forests of Hawai’i Island. We frequently specify its removal, for restoration purposes, while simultaneously planning for its processing and reuse as wood chip mulch. Not otherwise available for commercial landscape use, this hardy and beautiful wood chip mulch represents a common way in which our master planning process can “make lemonade out of lemons” by planning for the removal of problematic species, to make way for native and/or productive ones, while also capitalizing on these otherwise unwanted species’ beautiful properties in the process.

An integral part of our master planning process involves the evaluation of the soil horizons and aggregate earthen materials on site. Given the often heterogenous nature of soil horizons across Hawai’i, our master planning process involves the evaluation, processing, treatment, and appropriate allocation of earthen materials. We advise on best practices for erosion control, moisture retention, permeability, compaction, and impact.

Following our evaluation of plant and earthen materials, we are able to specify path materials & layout, seating areas, planting design / selection / layout, and sculptural elements borne of the site itself. Our Master Planning process yields the path forward to execute landscape design elements in-house, leading to the manifestation of our beautiful and signature landscapes. For examples, see more in Landscape Design & Sculpture.