Founder / Owner

Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo 2012     

Bachelor’s of Landscape Architecture, Sustainable Design.

Michael has had a passion for being in the garden from a young age.  It was through weekends spent at his grandparent's house in San Rafael that his curiosity for botany and horticulture began.  After graduating High School in Sonoma County, he attended the SRJC where Environmental design and Natural Resource Management caught his interest.  Eager to save the world, he attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and received his Bachelor’s of Landscape Architecture.  He now enjoys working with residential clients to help them achieve their garden goals and create spaces where people can spend beautiful times with their loved ones.   

Michael works with several local contractors to offer construction services and management, including working with Rayner Landscaping Inc; one of the industry leaders in Marin County for Design/Build Residential Landscapes.  His work helped to earn Rayner Landscaping the award of "Best Landscape Design" in Marin's Pacific Sun 2017, and 2018.

Operations Manager

Carla comes to us with vast and invaluable knowledge of the industry network and operation details.  Clients consider her a delight to spend time with, and a pleasure to do business with.  We are lucky to have her as a part of the team.

You may also bump into Carla...

• Playing tennis

• At a concert or Warrior's game

• Walking her two dogs

Designer / Project Manager

I came across landscape architecture and fell in love with the eco-friendly aspect. I graduated from Berkley with a BA in Landscape architecture. I worked at a small firm beforehand, and I was indoors all day. I then learned more about MHA Creative Landscapes and found myself outside and loved every minute of it. I love the full aspect of design, seeing it from start to finish. I get to work with clients, and different materials all the time in different locations and it always keeps me engaged.

My Favorite Plant: Salvias—there are so many different varieties and purposes, and they are great for attracting pollinators. They are also low maintenance, not requiring much water or attention.

 My Favorite Season: " I love Spring; it's a breath of fresh air. Plants are starting to grow, and it is the beginning of sunshine, which makes me want to go outside."

 My Approach to Challenges: I approach site-specific challenges head-on, keeping in mind what one solution will have an effect on the project as a whole, and move forward from there. I also enjoy talking to my coworkers and seeing their perspectives on specific challenges.

Project Manager

A Nice Day at Work includes being outside on any sunny day and getting the opportunities to see all plants thrive with all our hard work and love. 

Some of the most common mistakes are pruning plants at the wrong time of year, which could be detrimental to the health of the plant.

Some of my key skills: I’ve honed my skills in irrigation, aesthetically pleasing plant placement, and finding eco-friendly plant options. One of my favorite materials to work with is hog wire and vines that can be train.

My Favorite Plant: is a Passion Fruit Vine, the colors can be vibrant and bring any boring fence to life.

At MHA Creative Landscapes, we believe that exceptional landscape design requires more than just vision—it requires flawless execution. While our in-house team handles the design, horticulture, and project management, we rely on a carefully selected network of trusted tradesmen and specialists to bring the most complex elements of your project to life.

We don't just hire contractors; we cultivate partnerships. These individuals and small businesses are an extension of the MHA family, sharing our commitment to quality, sustainability, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

• Skilled Carpentry Professionals: For custom pergolas, decks, fences, and outdoor kitchens, our carpenters ensure every joint is perfect and every structure is built to last. They specialize in using sustainable, high-quality materials that complement the natural environment.

• Irrigation specialists: From efficient drip systems to sophisticated water features, our plumbing partners are experts in hydrozoning and conservation, ensuring your landscape stays lush while minimizing water waste.

• Hardscape Construction Specialists: Patios, walkways, retaining walls, and fire pits are the backbone of a functional outdoor space. Our masons are artisans who understand how to blend durable materials with elegant design, turning simple stone into stunning architectural features.

• Outdoor lighting Technicians: For landscape lighting that highlights features and ensures safety, our electricians are crucial. They install low-voltage, energy-efficient systems that transform your garden into a captivating space after sunset.