Cortland Paul, FASLA (1927 - 2003)

Corky was known for his bow ties and sunny character. Yes, Cortland 'Corky' Paul, was one of those people who you meet, or even just witness his genius, and never forget the moment. A true landscape architectural trendsetter. In 1954, he became one of the California's first licensed Landscape Architects, he helped start licensing law for the state's Landscape Architects, and his advances in hillside development are now a standard for most cities in the state.

 

Cortland's career was kickstarted by a setback, as his wife Nadine recounted, "He was working for a landscape company owned by several rich men. He went in one day and asked for more money. They fired him instead, so he started his own business. His former bosses said he wouldn't last six months. In two years, he had a staff of four designers and 20 crew members."

Courtland Paul/Arthur Beggs and Associates, which later changed its name to Peridian Group, impacted community development across Southern California. According to the Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF), Cortland and his firm were known for their community design and master planning throughout the world.

Nadine told LASN that Cortland never thought himself a teacher, though he taught so many. Colleague John Durbin recalled one such teaching moment: "I was drawing these eucalyptus trees all in a row, thinking it looked really natural. Cort came by and said, 'That's not how eucalyptus trees grow.' He took a three-hole punch and emptied it out on my desk. 'That's how eucalyptus trees grow.'"

Among other career highlights, he was appointed to CLARB, was president of LAF, and served on CLASS Fund. The Courtland Paul Scholarship Fund was established in his honor.

"He was one of the most inspirational people I have ever met," stated George Schmok. "I am just one of truly millions who experienced his influence."

As seen in LASN magazine, July 2025.