Echoing throughout our studio is the word edit. This term has become one of the firm’s guiding principles in that we refine spaces envisioned by our client’s collective imagination by anchoring them in the practice of architectural integrity and historical significance and operating sensibly beneath the environmental canopy.
With an energetic team oriented toward creative collaboration with clients, we blend timeless design in the framework of projects large and small, public and private. Our rich studio culture encourages diversity in design ranging from classic French and Italian, to modern, contemporary styles. Dedicated to exploring excellence in technical standards, our team is guided by the traditions of landscape architecture and strives to raise the bar in watershaping. As stewards of environmental design, we value the opportunity to cultivate lasting impressions that engage our clients from start to finish.
Ben Dozier, ASLA Principal of Design & Construction
Partner and Principal of Design, Ben provides guidance and leadership throughout the design and sales process, facilitating client relations and expectations through all phases of the project. Well-versed in landscape and pool construction history, trends and literature from both a design and build perspective, Ben brings a well-rounded approach to business development. A graduate of Western State College in Gunnison, Colorado with a degree in Business Recreation, Ben extends his studies through his involvement with the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). In addition, he has had training with the Genesis 3 Pool Society as well as successfully completing the Mike Lin, ASLA, Graphics Workshop program. He currently chairs the ASLA Design/Build Professional Practice Network with like-minded associates throughout the country and conducts and facilitates panel discussions and debates at the annual conference.
Duke Cowden, Principal of Estate Management
Partner and Principal of Operations, Duke heads overall progress from contract approval through construction completion of each project, insuring design standards are achieved and integrated with integrity through his team of project managers. His past work experiences sets him at the forefront of operations and construction management of both large and small projects. As a graduate of the University of Texas in Economics, Duke’s exploration of value engineering each phase of the project secures our clients’ confidence in the most technical of situations. His continued training through the Genesis 3 Society of pool builders and other related industries, allows him to govern the traditional and conventional aspect of construction. The hands-on leadership approach and excellence in client relations is the bond that strengthens our firm.
Michael Percy, ASLA Landscape Architect
Also a graduate of Louisiana State University and Registered Landscape Architect, Michael is certified by the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) and the Texas Recreation and Park Society. Through several successful practice stints at Jeffrey Carbo studio, Mesa Design Group and HNTB Corporation, he is now honing his experiences of designing residential and public spaces at Root Design Company. Michael brings a variety of skill sets to his projects including a meticulous eye for detail. His past design and management of high magnitude public structures shows through in the integrity of his residential designs. Michael’s planning in studio is highlighted with unique, hand-crafted renderings reflecting graphic options that echo client’s desires with respect to the surrounding structures and environment.
Sarah Calfee, Landscape Designer
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Travis Jennings, Garden Manager
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Roxi Zamora, Office Manager
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Connie Kelly, Office Manager
Connie Kelly brings over 25 years of account and office management experience to Root Design Company. Her professional work ethic and commitment has contributed to the successful organization of the company’s accounting and administrative records. Ms. Kelly previously dedicated numerous years as an Executive Assistant and Human Resource Manager and worked as an Office Manager and Administrative Assistant with Duke Cowden at Cornerstone Pools prior to the merger with Root Design Company. In her free time, Connie enjoys baking cookies, painting and throwing slumber parties with her grandchildren.