Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Michigan Landscape Architects
OCBA Landscape Architects has been a leader in planning and design services since 1964, dedicated to preserving and enhancing Michigan's natural landscapes. Our team of experienced landscape architects prioritizes ecological beauty, environmental stewardship, and sustainable design practices across diverse projects including parks, campuses, and green infrastructure. With decades of expertise, we collaborate closely with clients to create spaces that balance functionality with environmental responsibility, as evidenced by our award-winning work and long-standing client relationships.Our commitment to participatory design processes and community engagement ensures that each project reflects the unique needs of its stakeholders. As a certified Women's Business Enterprise, we bring a diverse perspective to every project while maintaining technical excellence in construction documentation, master planning, and site design. Our work extends beyond aesthetics to deliver measurable environmental benefits, reduced lifecycle costs, and spaces that foster community health and well-being.
Services
Landscape Architecture
Master Planning
Site Design
Green Infrastructure
Park Development
Campus Planning
Streetscape Design
Playground Safety
Construction Administration
Grant Assistance
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We employ a collaborative design approach working directly with stakeholders
- Our participatory charrette process generates stakeholder-driven solutions
- 30+ years of combined experience in parks, campuses, and green infrastructure
- Certified Playground Safety Inspectors on staff for recreational spaces
- Proven track record with 60+ years of environmental stewardship
Associations and certifications
- Womens Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
What people say
Talented, professional, responsive
Professionalism with personal touch
Terrific job, outstanding partnership
Deep expertise across project types
Trusted long-term partner
Services
Landscape Architecture
Our landscape architecture services integrate ecological principles with functional design to create sustainable outdoor spaces. We specialize in transforming complex sites into thriving environments that balance human needs with environmental stewardship. With expertise in native plantings and green infrastructure, we deliver solutions that reduce maintenance costs while enhancing biodiversity.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive master plans that guide long-term development while preserving natural assets. Our process incorporates stakeholder input through participatory charrettes to ensure community needs are met. Each plan optimizes environmental performance and economic viability for parks, campuses, and urban spaces across Michigan.
Park Development
Our park development expertise creates recreational spaces that connect communities with nature. We design nature playscapes, playgrounds, and trails that prioritize safety and accessibility while maintaining ecological integrity. Certified playground safety inspectors ensure compliance with current standards across all recreational facilities.
Green Infrastructure
We implement green infrastructure solutions that manage stormwater naturally while enhancing urban environments. Our designs incorporate permeable surfaces, bioswales, and native vegetation to reduce runoff and improve water quality. These systems provide long-term cost savings through reduced maintenance requirements.
Campus Planning
Our campus planning services create cohesive environments for educational and corporate institutions. We balance aesthetic appeal with functional needs through integrated site design, circulation systems, and sustainable landscaping. Recent projects include healing gardens and headquarters renovations that enhance user experience while maintaining environmental responsibility.
People
Sandy Bliesener
President
Landscape architect with 30+ years experience leading design teams. Graduated from Kansas State University, previously worked in California architectural firms. Focuses on collaborative design processes and community engagement. Active in local volunteer work and sustainable transportation advocacy.
Rachel Hughes-Nilsson
Associate
Michigan State University graduate specializing in public parks and playgrounds. Expertise in stormwater management and zoning regulations. Born and raised in Kalamazoo, actively involved in local municipal boards. Combines technical knowledge with community-focused design solutions.
Katie Chase
Landscape Architect
Master of Landscape Architecture from Ball State University. Specializes in sustainable planting design and park planning. Active in Uptown Grand Rapids design initiatives. Brings expertise in construction administration and technical documentation to complex projects.
Deborah Dawe
Landscape Architect
Certified Playground Safety Inspector with experience in parks and trails. Serves on ASLA Michigan Chapter leadership. Focuses on creating functional spaces that highlight natural environments. Skilled in all project phases from planning to implementation.
Samantha Fee
Landscape Designer
Recent Ball State graduate with communications expertise. Manages social media and office expansion in Petoskey. Focuses on residential design and community engagement. Active in Rotary Club initiatives promoting environmental stewardship.
Questions
What geographic areas do OCBA Landscape Architects serve?
We primarily serve Michigan with a focus on West Michigan communities, including Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, and Detroit metropolitan areas.
What types of projects does OCBA specialize in?
We specialize in parks, campuses, streetscapes, green infrastructure, and playground design with a focus on sustainable solutions.
How does OCBA involve communities in design projects?
We use participatory charrettes and stakeholder listening sessions to ensure community needs shape our design solutions.
What sustainability practices does OCBA implement?
We prioritize native plantings, green infrastructure, and stormwater management systems that reduce environmental impact.
Does OCBA handle both design and construction phases?
Yes, we provide full-service master planning through construction administration for comprehensive project delivery.
Is OCBA experienced with grant-funded projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience assisting clients with grant applications and compliance requirements for public projects.
