Topia
San Diego

For 15 years, Topia’s work has been characterized by a philosophy of strong, simple design that responds in innovative ways to the unique requirements of the site and the client. Comprised of a small staff of landscape architects and landplanners, Topia handles a wide range of projects, including hotel and destination resort development, single/multifamily residential developments, commercial and corporate offices, golf courses and projects related to the leisure industries. Principals: Michael Kato and Frank Marczynski.

Avalon Hotel, Burbank, Calif.
In 2008, Topia took on a renovation of a 400-unit apartment complex on 6.89 acres in the heart of California’s Center City redevelopment area in Burbank. The site comprises five major buildings, including a parking lot and central amenity space. No area was left untouched in the redesign. Dividing the space added new functionality and visually linked separate courtyards, using the topography to best advantage. Each courtyard offers intimate settings with private trellised spaces, water features, fireplaces, barbecue counters and seating areas.

Sheraton La Jolla Hotel, La Jolla, Calif.
Renovated in 2000, the Sheraton La Jolla Hotel underwent a complete architectural and landscape upgrade. The focus of the landscape design is around the main courtyard. A water feature and hundreds of plants create a lush tropical atmosphere. An outdoor events area offers additional functionality to the courtyard.

Sheraton Resort & Spa, Carlsbad, Calif.
The 250-room Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa is a contemporary coastal resort and popular tourist destination. It also serves as a business/conference locale. Surrounded by beautiful Spanish Mediterranean architecture, manicured rolling lawns and panoramic ocean views, the more than 30,000 sq. ft. of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting spaces accommodate intimate or grand scale events. A separate activity courtyard combines a 5,000 sq. ft. free-form pool, children’s interactive water feature and spa.