Best of 2024: McCullough's Top Projects
Each year, McCullough designers take time to reflect on the past year's projects, celebrating their unique aspects and standout moments. In 2024, we strengthened relationships, forged new connections, overcame challenges, grew our team, and made a positive impact on communities through thoughtful landscape architecture and urban design.
Explore our favorite projects, spanning commercial, educational, hospitality, housing, institutional, and mixed-use spaces across San Diego, Los Angeles, and Northern California, and hear from each designer about what sets these projects apart as the "Best of 2024."
Niland Community Park
Niland and Calipatria Community Parks | Imperial County, CA
David McCullough, PLA, ASLA
Principal Landscape Architect
In 2024 we witnessed a strong shift in the built environment market that has been incredibly encouraging, and quite personally restored a bit of the passion that I feel for the built world at large. Of course, not everything in the world today is perfect. But generally, I think we all have some things to look forward to, and in 2024 we saw some of these emerge.
For this reason, what’s happening in the under-served desert communities of California is a place to draw attention to. McCullough started working closely with the County of Imperial and local construction management and development services firm, Gafcon on a series of new parks where once built, will become models for these communities and the country at large. In the small towns of Calipatia and Niland, California county officials have seen a need for public amenities where little has been provided in the past. This coupled with state and corporate interests to provide funding for underserved communities for amenities that will ultimately help bridge inequalities seen throughout the state, two incredibly needed parks were conceived.
Where this gets exciting for McCullough is when the ideas come together with the community needs in community engagements. Both Niland & Calipatria and the County of Imperial expressed a desire to have parks and gardens that were unique to their needs, highly utilitarian, and programmed specific to the needs of this unique population. We listened, and what came out of many discussions and feedback was what we felt was the desire for special places, parks for people, parks for these communities.
Niland is a census-designated place in Imperial County. The town is located eight miles north of Calipatria, two miles southeast of the Salton Sea. The population was 1,006 at the 2010 census, down from 1,143 in 2000. The 2020 census reported Niland's population at 756. The city upon establishment has been a refuse largely for migrant workers and people drawn to the free-natured, open spirit of the desert. People in the community are attracted to the creative opportunities, hard climate, free range like spirit that the Imperial County valley has to offer. Very little public infrastructure has been provided in this often-overseen town. The County of Imperial, in conjunction with the landowner (for the proposed park site), Innercare are planning for this well-deserved amenity. The Niland Community Gardens is planned to consist of a new post office extension, retail components/opportunities, community accessible gardens, a community center, playgrounds, sports amenities, and a pedestrian bridge and “Welcome to the Valley” gateway signage to name a few. Overall, the county sees this opportunity as a regional destination, community center, and gateway to the northeast entrance into the valley. For these reasons, this is the first of a monumental development for this underserved community where McCullough celebrates the opportunity for advancement in this corner of the California desert.
Calipatria (a portmanteau of California and Patria, Spanish for "homeland") is a city just south of Niland in Imperial County. The community is located along State Route 111.
At an elevation of 180 feet below sea level, Calipatria is the lowest incorporated city in the Western Hemisphere. The city currently claims to have the "tallest flagpole (184 feet) where the flag flies at sea level" at 184 feet, so their American flag will always fly above sea level.
Like Niland, Calipatria is a special place filled with a tough, resilient population. But again, the needs were unique.
The park designed is much needed and is planned to sit at the edge of a municipal airport, directly adjacent to the sites of Calipatria High School, Bill E Young Middle School, and Fremont Primary School on the edge of their downtown.
Amenities planned are a new community center facility, indoor swimming pool, community rooms, a multi-purpose field, a community garden, splash pad, and outdoor playground. An existing airplane hanger will stay in place but is planned to be re-purposed for community use. The new facilities draw architectural inspiration from this existing hanger. Shaded picnic areas and ample shade trees are also part of the plan to shelter visitors for the sweltering summer sun.
In all, both new parks are celebrated and herald with anticipation by all and as a result, both reach the top of the my list for the Best of 2024.
5th and Walnut is a new mixed-use, affordable housing apartment building under design, lead by the very talented team at the Prime Company. The Prime Company focuses on unique projects that create community, enrich resident lives, and maximize value. Their team brings decades of experience in multifamily design to deliver thoughtful and compelling projects.
5th and Walnut will provide an opportunity for local economic growth and community diversity by providing affordable living spaces that will attract a diverse range of residents, and foster a vibrant and inclusive community. The building’s strategic location near major transportation hubs ensures easy access to public transit, reducing the need for personal vehicles and promoting sustainable urban living.
At the heart of this development is a strong emphasis on community connection. The building features thoughtfully designed social spaces, including communal amenity decks, a rooftop terrace, and multi-purpose rooms, where residents can gather, interact, and build meaningful relationships. These spaces are designed to cater to a diverse population, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or background, feels welcome and included.
One of the laudable features of this project is its adherence to the City of San Diego’s Complete Communities program and Climate Action Plan, which will serve to enhance the City’s urban forest. This project’s public face not only enhances the visual appeal of the building but also offers numerous mental health benefits, such as reducing stress and promoting relaxation by bringing nature into the urban environment. Additionally, the trees and plants improve air quality by filtering pollutants and releasing oxygen.
I chose 5th and Walnut as my best of 2024 project because it characterizes how thoughtful design and community-focused planning can create a thriving, inclusive, and engaging living environment. It is hoped that it will stand as a model for future urban developments in San Diego by demonstrating that affordable housing can be both beautiful and beneficial for the community and the environment.
La Quinta Cultural Campus | La Quinta, CA
Benjamin Arcia, M.U.D., ASLA
Senior Associate
La Quinta Cultural Campus was my favorite project of 2023. A year has passed since then, and my relationship with this project and with my colleagues on the design team has gotten richer with meaning. For 2024, La Quinta Cultural Campus is again my favorite project of the year.
Originally, the design brief was to envision an ethnobotanical garden that would decorate a promenade in front of a new plaza/oasis/event space at the La Quinta Museum. The usual purpose of an ethnobotanical garden is to display and explain the traditional uses and meanings that native plants have for indigenous people of an area. Through conversations with Cahuilla elder Kim Marcus, I came to appreciate just how nomadic the Cahuilla had been for generations before European contact. Their annual journey from the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains down to the Coachella Valley marked the rhythm of life and the measurement of time itself. Summers were spent up in the cool mountains, and winters were enjoyed down in the warmth of the low desert. Along the way, the Cahuilla passed through many other habitats, including Oak Savanna, Juniper/Pinyon Woodland, and Chaparral. To survive this annual journey, Cahuilla people developed an encyclopedic understanding of which plants could be eaten, which could be used for medicine, and which could be used for textiles, vessels, and tools.
Somewhere in the design process, it dawned on me that a little ethnobotanical garden inhabited only by low desert plants acclimated to La Quinta’s climate would show only an incomplete slice of the breadth of the Cahuilla botanical vocabulary. Additionally, there’s no way we could keep a Ponderosa pine, for example, alive in the heat of the Coachella Valley. Perhaps a nomadic people’s relationship with hundreds of plants across many altitude/climate zones seemed to deserve a different communication strategy than just plant tags and didactic panels.
This is how the decorative diamondback rattlesnake in the campus’ paving evolved into the vehicle for telling this story of many plants for many uses in many places. I decided to use the forty diamonds on the snake’s back as vignettes that could show a plant and its uses displayed in an iconographic way.
Read more about La Quinta Cultural Campus →
Thanks to fantastic communication by Cheryl Chiu and Matt Austin from HGA, we were able to delicately nudge the design discussion with the City of La Quinta away from a conventional ethnobotanical garden, and toward a method of landscape storytelling that more palpably communicates these relationships between a people and the plants around them. Upon presenting this new approach to City staff, we heard them say “This isn’t what we asked for, but I didn’t even know I wanted this until you showed me. Let’s build this thing!”
This project has been immensely gratifying, largely because of the people involved. It is difficult to overstate how enjoyable it has been to work with HGA’s staff. The team chemistry has been a consistent source of happiness for me. Also, a huge debt of gratitude to the City of La Quinta for their ambition and imagination. And of course, a big big thank you to my colleagues here at McCullough who have jumped in to provide inspiration, expertise, and elbow grease.
If all goes well, we should see this project in the ground before the end of 2025.
Cabrillo College and UC Santa Cruz joint-student housing | Aptos, CA
Mahalakshmi “Maha” Balachandran, Int’l ASLA
Senior Associate, Northern California Office
*Images courtesy of TCA Architects
When I walked the Aptos campus of Cabrillo College and UC Santa Cruz, several elements caught my eye. The deep connection to nature was unmistakable, whether it was the stunning ocean views or the serene hidden spots within the redwood forests. The grand linear walkways and distinctive art installations further enhanced the commonality between the campuses.
We collaborated with Michaels, CBG, and TCA Architects to pursue Cabrillo College and UC Santa Cruz joint-student housing. As we delved into the vision and mission of both institutions, it became clear that this project was about much more than simply adding infill housing. The design's essence was centered on fostering a deep connection to the campus, with a clear emphasis on creating a site that was accessible, pedestrian-friendly, and welcoming to cyclists. At the heart of this vision was “The Promenade,” a space designed to ensure that residents—especially families with children—could move through the area freely and safely, without the concern of oncoming traffic.
We recognized that understanding the needs of users was crucial. Today, on-campus student housing isn’t just about providing a bed; it’s about cultivating an environment that supports academic success, mental health, and social connections. Our approach, therefore, wasn’t just to design a functional space, but also to craft flexible outdoor areas capable of evolving with the residents' changing needs over time.
I've had the pleasure of walking the Monarch Trail at Natural Bridges year after year. Every time I visit, I’m reminded of how extraordinary this place is—it’s the only State Monarch Preserve in California, and it serves as a vital sanctuary for pollinators. This natural haven for pollinators sparked an idea: what if we could extend this vital habitat into this campus? By integrating native plants, we could create dynamic outdoor spaces that serve as living classrooms. Students would have the opportunity to engage directly with local flora, fostering both a sense of environmental stewardship and a deeper connection to the natural world.
Designing learning landscapes like this offers a unique, practical, and educational experience. These spaces not only enhance the beauty of the campus but also provide students with the tools to understand and appreciate ecological conservation. In doing so, we create environments that are not only visually captivating but also meaningful, helping cultivate a sense of belonging and responsibility toward the environment.
The conversation between the "purpose of the landscape" and the "soul of the site" created an intriguing design dialogue making the process my personal favorite of 2024.
Chabad Center | Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Polina Karake, MSID, Int’l ASLA
Associate
No matter how far my travels take me, I always find myself seeking out a Chabad House—a place where the warmth of community, tradition, and faith feels within reach, no matter how distant home may seem. With over 2,700 institutions spanning more than 70 countries, Chabad Houses serve as vital anchors for Jewish communities worldwide. They provide a welcoming space to celebrate holidays, share life’s milestones, seek support, and study. Whether for celebration, connection, or reflection, Chabad Houses remain a beacon of belonging across the globe.
Nestled in the beautiful natural landscape of San Diego County, with its mature trees, challenging topography, and a patchwork of existing buildings, the initial project scope may have seemed simple: “bringing a piece of Israel to San Diego.” But how? How can abstract concepts like “soul,” “heart,” “spirit,” and “home” be translated into a landscape where practical issues such as drainage and circulation must also be addressed?
An in-depth design collaboration with Page Architects revealed both the need and its solution: creating a seamless connection between the new and existing structures through a rain garden. At the heart of the garden lies a small stream channel, which functions as the project’s central stormwater drainage system while symbolizing the element of water—life’s constant flow and movement. In contrast to the complex programmatic needs, such as a gathering and events center with a spacious central plaza, hospitality spaces, classrooms, and a future early childhood center, the garden offers a serene, almost secretive retreat. The restrained material palette of stone and wood draws inspiration from the simplicity and minimalism of Jerusalem stone. The plant selection harmonizes with the native Israeli vegetation and the Seven Species, creating both a visual and spiritual connection to the Hebrew calendar. At the heart of the main plaza stands a stage, framed by a stand-alone stone wall that serves as both a striking backdrop and a symbolic echo of Jerusalem's Western Wall. This design element not only anchors the space but also transforms the plaza into a gathering place imbued with meaning, inviting moments of reflection and celebration alike.
Having contributed to the development of the Israeli landscape for many years, I felt an immediate connection to this project. I am grateful for the opportunity to play a small part in shaping a home away from home for the local community. Through this work, I sought to embody the core virtue of Chabad: transforming intellectual knowledge into meaningful actions and elevating them to a higher level of emotional connection and practice. This is why the Chabad Center at San Diego County was my pick for Best of 2024.
Kindred | San Diego, CA
Akshay Badwe, PLA, ASLA
Associate Landscape Architect
*Images courtesy of AVRP
The Kindred project is an ambitious mixed-use development by Bridge Housing, a leading developer of affordable housing in California. The development nestled in the heart of downtown San Diego, just south of the lush expanses of Balboa Park. With its unique architectural footprint, this thoughtfully designed complex aims to provide affordable housing options for seniors and families, addressing a crucial need in the community. Comprising 126 residential units, the project rises five stories above ground, with three additional levels partially below ground, creating a unique architectural footprint that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape.
A pivotal aspect of this project is the extensive streetscape improvements that enhance the neighborhood's aesthetic and functional appeal. The site itself presents a significant challenge due to its steep grade; however, the talented AVRP architectural team crafted an innovative solution. By leveraging the natural slopes of Beech Street and Cedar Street, they designed a ramp leading to the parking structure, skillfully integrating it into the existing topography.
Preserving the existing infrastructure while implementing a biofiltration design strategy for the landscape architecture team presented a significant challenge. However, our team rose to the occasion, developing cost-effective and innovative solutions that integrated seamlessly with the project's overall architecture. The timeline was notably tight, with our involvement beginning in late January 2024 and the construction drawings completed by December of the same year, with construction set to begin in February 2025.
Another hurdle was the planting on the fourth level, where limited natural light and restrictions on soil usage required careful planning. We meticulously selected plant species that thrive under these conditions, ensuring their beauty and vitality, as well as and the health and safety of residents, particularly the seniors and families who would call this place home. In addition, great care was taken to preserve the existing trees along the streets.
A strong focus on the end-user marked our experience with the project. The team's collaborative and responsive nature and open communication fostered an environment where everyone's input was valued. This user-centric approach, which kept the needs of the residents at the forefront of all decisions, was a key factor in the project's success and is a testament to our commitment to creating a community-driven development.
In 2024, I had the privilege to work on a diverse array of housing projects, ranging from opulent luxury developments to affordable units. However, the Kindred project of 2024 holds a unique significance for me. Its meaningful contribution to the community and its strong alignment with the BRIDGE Housing philosophy—promoting safe and affordable housing for all—make it an extraordinary endeavor. This philosophy resonates deeply with my conviction that housing should serve as a foundational stepping stone toward a better life for everyone. Notably, the development of innovative design solutions does not necessitate a lavish budget; rather, it calls for creativity, practicality, and a keen understanding of the community's needs.
The Casitas at Rancho Santa FE | San Diego, CA
Adam Crowell, ASLA
Associate
If you’ve had the pleasure of visiting Rancho Santa Fe, you’re likely familiar with the iconic inn that sits as a cornerstone of its charming village. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance, embodying a timeless appeal. Just beyond the inn lies a cluster of 13 casitas connected by quiet roads. This site holds the promise of becoming, like the inn itself, a meaningful contribution to the Rancho Santa Fe community, merging beauty with purpose.
A casita is a small, elegant dwelling, often designed with charm and simplicity, serving as a private retreat or residence. Rooted in Spanish tradition, the term evokes a sense of intimacy and warmth, frequently associated with graceful architecture. The Casitas at Rancho Santa Fe have been a familiar project at the McCullough office for a while now. JMI Realty, the current owner and operator of The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, also owns this charming neighborhood of casitas. Reimagining this space has been a true pleasure. Collaborating with Drew Bridges at JMI Realty and local architect Don Looney has been a rewarding and creative process. With open communication, strong leadership, and a shared vision, the entire project team has worked seamlessly together. We’re proud of the results and look forward to partnering on future opportunities. Over the years, the design has gone through many changes, but the vision for the 13 private residences has always stayed true.
The Casitas - Fern
Each residence is thoughtfully named after plant material whether it be a tree, a shrub, or a California native plant. Jacaranda, Elm, Willow, Fern, Lily, Gardenia, Jasmine, Juniper, Poinsettia, Protea, Holly, Toyon, and Ivy all consist of their own quaint outdoor spaces unique to them, offering privacy for residents to enjoy their corner of the community at their own pace. A cohesive design unites the site, with each casita receiving tailored treatments that honor its unique character. Shared forms and materials—stone, metals, and carefully curated plant palettes—create a sense of harmony, while being thoughtfully adapted to suit the individual residence. Winding through the neighborhood, two inviting open spaces emerge. Orchard Park, once an underutilized orange grove, has been transformed into a serene space for wandering, resting, or gathering. Just around the corner, The Green provides an open grassy area, perfect for sunshine and play. Together, these thoughtful details and inviting spaces create a harmonious neighborhood that balances privacy, beauty, and community connection.
Working with Rancho Santa Fe was both an enjoyable and enriching experience. Regina Manneh, a Planner with the Rancho Santa Fe Association and a valued member of the Art Jury, was instrumental in guiding us toward a successful outcome. Her expertise, combined with the support of the entire Art Jury, ensured that our design decisions aligned seamlessly with the vision and character that Rancho Santa Fe seeks to uphold, helping to reinforce the community’s distinct sense of place. We also worked closely with Deputy Fire Marshal Conor Lenehan, who played a key role in ensuring the proposed community adhered to all local fire codes and regulations. Critical elements such as ignition zone buffers, tree canopy requirements, plant selections, and easements were carefully considered to reduce fire risk and prioritize safety. This meticulous planning was essential to safeguard the community in the event of a fire while maintaining its natural beauty and functionality.
Orchard Park
While the project is still underway, there’s a palpable sense of excitement surrounding its progress. This past year marked a significant push forward, made possible by the collaborative efforts of the entire team. With improvements to the site already in motion, we look ahead to 2025 with determination, knowing there’s more work to be done to bring this vision to completion. The Casitas at Rancho Santa Fe are more than just a project—they are a reflection of community, heritage, and thoughtful craftsmanship. Rooted in tradition and reimagined for today, these homes honor the natural beauty and spirit of Rancho Santa Fe. Through collaboration, care, and a shared vision, we’ve created a place where private retreats and shared spaces coexist in harmony. As the journey continues into 2025, we hold onto the excitement of seeing this vision fully realized—a neighborhood where timeless elegance meets a deep sense of belonging.
Cerritos College Falcon Square | Norwalk, CA
Tianchi Zhang, MLA, ASLA
Associate
Reimaging the Heart of a College Campus
Falcon Square at Cerritos College was a unique opportunity to reimagine a central campus space as a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable hub for the community. The design balances functionality and aesthetic appeal with features like flexible event spaces, a hierarchy of pedestrian pathways, stormwater management systems, and shaded gathering areas. These elements come together to create a multifunctional environment that supports both large events and intimate social interactions, embodying the spirit of campus life.
The project was not without challenges. Engaging the college community required narrowing down four initial concepts to one final design through five rounds of presentations. This time-intensive process ensured the design reflected the needs and preferences of students, faculty, and staff. Balancing a limited design budget with the ambitious vision for the space required our team to collaborate efficiently, using conceptual sketches, 3D modeling, and iterative site planning to maximize resources. Additionally, the need for shaded spaces—highly desired by users—had to be achieved with minimal canopy trees, resulting in creative solutions that strategically incorporated shade structures and plantings.
The success of the project was a testament to teamwork and collaboration. Our partnership with HPI Architecture was crucial, with Doug Choi and Andria Limon providing exceptional leadership in coordinating meetings, communicating with stakeholders, and keeping the project on track. Internally, our design team worked closely on every detail, from site circulation to planting design and furnishings. I am especially grateful to David McCullough, Kira Becker, Olivia Wax, and William Glockner for their invaluable contributions.
Falcon Square stands out as my Best Project of the Year for its ability to balance user needs, sustainability, and budget constraints while delivering a design that will serve as the heart of Cerritos College. I am proud to have been part of this incredible team and look forward to seeing this vibrant, multifunctional space come to life.
Fountain Street | Los Angeles, CA
Kira Becker, ASLA
Associate, Los Angeles Office
Many of us are well aware of California’s housing crisis. Decades of underbuilding, regulatory hurdles, and opposition to new developments have left the state with a severe housing shortage, causing a domino effect of wide-spread repercussions. But the solution isn’t just about building more housing – it’s about providing affordable housing that is accessible to low-income residents. Thankfully, a handful of dedicated organizations have focused their efforts on securing funding, building, and maintaining affordable housing across the state.
Our team has had the privilege of collaborating with the forward-thinking professionals at Linc Housing. Over the past few years, we’ve put our heads together with the folks at Linc, as well as the talented designers at BAR Architects, to develop an affordable housing community in the coastal city of Long Beach. This project will transform a 62,000 square foot site on the city’s east side into a vibrant community, featuring two buildings and a variety of outdoor spaces.
A hand sketch of the non-prescriptive sculptural play lawn that sits in the central courtyard between the buildings.
There’s a common misconception that affordability and design excellence cannot coexist. I couldn’t disagree more. In my experience, great design stems from a collaborative team that’s willing to think outside the box and embrace creative, non-traditional ideas. That is exactly the kind of partnership we’ve built with the Fountain Street team. Our trust in one another has allowed the project’s design to really bloom, creating spaces that feel unique and will make this complex feel like a home to those that live there one day.
Some of the creative approaches we’re exploring on this project include:
Italian Cypress trees on the site that must be removed could be repurposed as wayfinding signage throughout the site.
A non-traditional, non-prescriptive playground designed for all ages and abilities, which doubles as a sculptural element in the landscape
Repurposing on-site trees that need to be removed due to tree health or fire safety concerns, transforming them into seating, signage, planters and other site elements rather than hauling them away as trash
A community garden where residents can take pride in growing their own food and honing their gardening skills
An outdoor whiteboard wall that doubles as a projection wall for community movie nights
I chose this as my favorite project of the year because the Fountain Street project has the potential to set a new standard for how affordable housing can break free from traditional constraints to become both functional and inspiring. At its core, housing projects are about much more than providing shelter, they’re about building communities that foster pride, connection, and create opportunities for residents to thrive. This project is a step in that direction, one thoughtful development at a time.
Bioterra restaurant terrace | San Diego, CA
Sophia Rumpf, ASLA
Associate
McCullough became involved in the Bioterra project in 2023, when Longfellow sought to include an outdoor restaurant terrace on their under-construction life science office campus in Sorrento Valley. Together over the past year, we worked closely with PGAL on this 10,000 square foot terrace to design a creative and fluid space, rich with abundant planting and native species, celebrating all that Southern California’s gorgeous coast has to offer. The terrace provides opportunity for a mix of uses; a casual phone call, a client lunch, and even privacy to exercise and enjoy the San Diego sun. Raised planters with curving forms and decorative light fixtures along hidden pathways of lava rock inspire curiosity and discoverability, eliciting the feeling of a peaceful refuge to explore during a bustling workday. Intentional lighting, screening, shade, and sun exposure make for a diverse number of ways for visitors of this office park to enjoy the luxury of the outdoors without even descending to the ground floor. The design also features a stunning centerpiece, a mature multi-trunked Chilean Mesquite tree, sparkling with delicate pendant lights and framed by an envelope of colorful climbing vines and strawberry trees.
I chose to introduce this project because it serves as a reminder of a significant transition in my career. When this project began, I was in a supporting role, predominantly executing on direction to draft and 3D model the ideas of my colleagues. Though I cannot lay claim to the Bioterra design itself, it is one that I am proud to have worked very hard on, showing my capabilities in a leadership role. It has been incredibly rewarding to grow through the course of the project, executing the original creative vision, and eventually taking over responsibility for the project’s management. Bioterra Restaurant Terrace is currently being built, and I am looking forward to seeing it come to life!
NTC Lab Remodel | San Diego, CA
Jiayao Tang, ASLA
Junior Associate
The Environmental Monitoring and Technical Services (EMTS) Naval Training Center (NTC) Laboratory Remodel Project presented an exciting opportunity to redefine the surrounding landscape with a vision rooted in sustainability and California’s decarbonization goals. Our scope included designing an eco-conscious, biodiverse landscape that enhances the functionality and environmental resilience of the site. Through the preservation of existing flora, integration of native plants, and implementation of sustainable materials, the project embodies a forward-thinking approach to landscape architecture.
The primary challenge was aligning the site’s aesthetic appeal with rigorous sustainability standards set by the City’s Zero Emissions Building Operations Policy (ZEMBOP). To address this, we focused on preserving existing trees, protecting native shrubs, and creating layered planting strategies that naturally support the local ecosystem. Another obstacle was designing for long-term resilience in the face of climate change. By incorporating drought-tolerant species and permeable hardscape materials, we ensured the landscape would thrive in changing environmental conditions.
Unique Features and Outcomes:
The design celebrates San Diego’s native landscape, featuring locally sourced plants that support biodiversity, improve carbon sequestration, and reduce irrigation needs. Highlights include:
Tree Preservation and Native Plant Integration: The protection of existing trees and the addition of native shrubs and groundcovers create a multi-layered ecosystem that supports local wildlife, including birds, bees, and butterflies.
Sustainable Practices: Use of permeable materials and organic maintenance practices ensures minimal environmental impact.
Educational Engagement: Interpretive signage educates visitors on the benefits of native plants and the role they play in ecosystem restoration.
These features create a balanced, functional, and beautiful landscape that aligns seamlessly with the project’s broader sustainability objectives.
Collaboration with the Environmental Monitoring and Technical Services team allowed us to push boundaries in sustainable design. Their enthusiasm for our eco-conscious strategies ensured a shared vision for an impactful and enduring project.
I chose this project because it stands out for its alignment with our team’s dedication to environmental stewardship. Crafting a landscape that not only supports California’s decarbonization goals but also creates a sanctuary for wildlife and community engagement has been an immensely rewarding experience. The EMTS NTC Remodel Project serves as a testament to the transformative power of sustainable design in shaping resilient, vibrant spaces.
THird Avenue Lofts | San Diego, CA
Adis Tutusic, Int’l ASLA
Junior Associate
Located in the heart of Downtown Chula Vista, Third Avenue Lofts is more than just a housing project, it’s a vision for a connected and vibrant urban future. Positioned along the bustling Third Avenue corridor, the development bridges key landmarks like the Sweetwater River and Otay Valley Regional Park. It promises to enhance the city’s flow by connecting neighborhoods, businesses, and recreational spaces into a cohesive urban fabric.
McCullough had participated in a Urban Land Institute (ULI) San Diego-Tijuana TAP (Technical Assistance Panel) to assist an organization of local Chula Vista business owners in developing strategies to protect their neighborhood while promoting growth. View the Third Avenue Downtown Chula Vista TAP report here.
The project, in collaboration with our client, Dan Johnson, and SCS Engineers, has pioneered the integration of residential spaces with commercial opportunities, supporting local businesses and increasing foot traffic to keep downtown vibrant and sustainable. Its design includes green spaces, shaded seating, and pedestrian-friendly pathways, promoting wellness and social interaction. Proximity to Otay Valley Regional Park offers outdoor activities, while housing near job hubs reduces traffic and attracts new residents.
Honoring Chula Vista’s historic charm, Third Avenue Lofts incorporates thoughtful architecture and public art while addressing modern needs for housing and commerce. Acting as a hub for residents and visitors, the project strengthens downtown’s identity and enhances its role as an economic and cultural center.
I chose Third Avenue Lofts because it is more than a development, it’s a catalyst for revitalization. By prioritizing connectivity, sustainability, and cultural preservation, it sets a new standard for urban redevelopment. Beyond being just a building, it serves as a cornerstone for economic growth, community engagement, and urban vibrancy. As the city evolves, Third Avenue Lofts ensures that its historic heart beats stronger than ever, paving the way for a brighter future.
California State University San Marcos, Science and Engineering Building | San MArcos, CA
Olivia Wax, ASLA
Junior Associate
A Campus Transformation: Designing a Landscape for the Future at CSUSM
Nestled on a sprawling 304-acre hillside, California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) is a campus that has seen remarkable growth. As part of this evolution, the College of Science and Mathematics (CSM) has faced unique challenges stemming from rapid expansion, including limited space for teaching and research. Amid this backdrop, our firm is thrilled to contribute to the design of a new science building and its accompanying landscape—a project that blends innovation, connectivity, and respect for the natural environment. This undertaking has been a journey of creativity and problem-solving, and I’m excited to share its story as my favorite project of 2024.
In collaboration with HGA and C.W. Driver, the overarching vision for this project is to enhance the campus’s connectivity, both physically and socially, while celebrating its stunning hillside setting. Our goals include designing inviting social environments to foster interaction among students and faculty, establishing connections to create a cohesive sciences and engineering neighborhood, and energizing the campus with an urban edge while improving accessible pathways across campus levels. Maximizing the breathtaking views from the site, including maintaining the iconic vista toward the hill, was also a priority.
One of the biggest challenges emerged late in the process: a decision to delay construction of part of the new building, which had been integral to framing the man-made hillside that was the centerpiece of our design. This unexpected change left a 15,000-square-foot gap in the plan, requiring a significant redesign of the space. Rather than view this setback as a loss, we embraced it as an opportunity. The new design incorporates an ethnobotanical garden, showcasing plants native to Southern California and their cultural significance to Indigenous peoples such as the Kumeyaay and Luiseño tribes. This garden not only honors the region’s heritage but also serves as an educational resource, providing students with a learning opportunity and a space that fosters community.
As a landscape designer, projects like this resonate deeply with me. Designing spaces that honor the past while looking toward the future aligns with my values of sustainability, community, and innovation. This project has been an opportunity to not only showcase creative problem-solving but also contribute to a university that is shaping the next generation of STEM leaders. It has been a testament to the power of adaptability and teamwork, teaching me the importance of embracing unexpected challenges and turning them into opportunities for growth and innovation. I’m proud to have been part of a team that created a space that reflects CSUSM’s mission of education, inclusivity, and collaboration.
The Brown residence
William Glockner, MLA, ASLA
Junior Associate
As we look back on 2024, one project stands out as both a professional achievement and a personal favorite - The Brown Residence. All of us at McCullough are deeply passionate about plants, and it’s rare to collaborate with a client who can exceed our energy and passion; enter David Brown. Our work together has felt less like executing a plan and more like an ongoing design conversation, where ideas are traded, refined, and expanded to create a truly tailor-made, one-of-a-kind design. What started as a simple backyard refresh project has transformed into a sitewide, multi-acre celebration of rare plants and extraordinary placemaking.
Stepping into the Brown Residence feels like stepping into Jurassic Park. The size of the property is dramatic and allows for the use of towering plant material, massive bark boulders, and spacious hardscapes without worrying about crowding the site. The scale and selection of landscape elements capture a sense of awe. One of the sites hallmark spaces is a forest of living fossils: cycads. Cycads are ancient plants that have existed for over 280 million years, dating back to the Permian period. Predating the dinosaurs, cycads are among the oldest seed plants still alive today, having endured mass extinctions and dramatic shifts in Earth's climate. The Cycad Forest showcases a stunning collection of these ancient plants, with subtle shades ranging from light emerald to verdant green. Some feature silvery accents streaking across the dramatic, spiny leaves. The cycads are arranged in a contemplative layout that emphasizes the space, highlights their striking forms, and creates an interactive, living museum of ancient plants.
On top of the temporal transit, the site's design allows you to explore landscape styles from several continents. One area bursts with the energy of Australian plants and majestic eucalyptus, while another immerses you in the calm of a Japanese garden complete with stone lanterns, water features, and meditation spaces. Sicilian sculptures flank the front entry, and an orchard of exotic fruit trees from around the world lines a winding path that leads guests through an oak tree to a hillside alcove designed for tea, prayer, and self-reflection.
The design goal has always been to craft a personal paradise—a series of distinct zones that reflect the rare and the exotic. This vision is a natural extension of David Brown’s appreciation for high-end, one-of-a-kind experiences, a value he’s built his company, Grand Pacific Resorts around. It’s only fitting that his personal retreat could rival the botanical gardens of most cities. If he ever decides to sell tickets to his home, I’d suggest grabbing one.
It is a space that pushes the boundaries of design and celebrates the beauty of the extraordinary. It’s projects like this that remind us why we do what we do.
