Watermark Landscape Architecture is a design, planning, and development consulting firm located in the mountains of Western North Carolina. We provide comprehensive, quality design services for landowners, homeowners, developers, conservation organizations and municipalities. We pride ourselves on creative yet practical solutions for each project, always keeping in mind the wants and needs of the client as well as thoroughly understanding the unique characteristics and potential of each property. We are committed to our clients, and work to build long term relationships that provide them with what they need, when they need it.
Because we live and work in such a special region, the Watermark team is always mindful of its unique characteristics, and strives to design each project in harmony with its natural surroundings. We emphasize native plants and materials, low-impact and sustainable design elements, and context-sensitive solutions. We apply our experience and knowledge to create successful design solutions: aesthetically, environmentally, economically and socially. First to create a design that works…then to make it beautiful.
Services
Landscape Design Water Conservation Design Low Impact & Sustainble Design Low Maintenance Landscapes Aging in Place Design Recreation Planning & Design Greenway & Trail Design Historic Landscapes Brownfield Redevelopment Stakeholder Meetings Design Charrettes Habitiat Specific Designs Land Use Master Planning
Site Planning Streetscape Design Development Consulting Site Discovery Site Evaluation & Analysis Feasibility Studies Grading, Drainage, & Erosion Control Plans Project Submittals & Representation Ordinance Review & Compliance Permitting Construction Administration Project Management Zoning Approvals
Hunter Marks holds a Master's in Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University and a BS in Agriculture from the University of Tennessee. He is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, a LEED AP accredited professional, and is licensed in North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. In addition to his work as a Landscape Architect, he has over 20 years experience in sales, marketing, and so has a thorough understanding and appreciation of the business and financial aspects of his client's projects.
Drake Elder is a SEED Certified landscape designer and project manager at WLA whose work emphasizes sustainable, practical, and community-centered design. Raised in Henderson County, he developed an early appreciation for healthy communities and regional cultural landscapes through his background in local farm-to-table agriculture. Prior to pursuing landscape architecture, Drake gained hands-on experience in construction, surveying, and residential design-build, shaping his ability to translate design intent into buildable, enduring landscapes. He holds a BS in Environmental Studies from Brevard College, with a concentration in Sustainable Agriculture and minors in Natural History and Ecology, and an MLA from NC State University along with a Graduate Certificate in Public Interest Design. Drake is committed to advancing equitable and context-sensitive design throughout Western North Carolina and the surrounding region.
