Welcome
At DTLS, we understand that our work is made better through diversity of thought, which is rooted in varied and equitable representation. We acknowledge that we have work to do in this area, and often engage partners to help address gaps within our own practice. For DTLS, being a Women-Owned Business is central to our identity, and we embrace it as part of our purpose, seeking opportunities for learning and mentorship among underrepresented design professionals.
Founded in 2012, DTLS employs eleven people, including seven Professional Landscape Architects, licensed in several states. Two of our colleagues hold LEED credentials, and two are SITES accredited. Our company is an S-Corporation, with women holding over 80% of shares.
DTLS holds the following certifications:
Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB)
Federal Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB)
Women-Owned Business - Missouri (MRCC), Illinois (FBE) and Nebraska (WBE)
MoDOT Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
City of St. Louis Local Women Business Enterprise (WBE)
Who
DTLS fosters a studio environment based on teamwork, collaboration and mutual respect. We have structured our practice to take advantage of each other’s strengths, and we seek out individual learning and growth opportunities for the betterment of our collective expertise.
Meet our team:
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Brad Weitekamp
Landscape Architect
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Caroline Finck
Landscape Designer
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Christopher Faller
Landscape Designer
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Emily Straka
Principal | Comptroller
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Gabe Presley
Landscape Architect
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Julia Montroy
Principal | Landscape Architect
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Lauren McDaniel
Landscape Designer
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Matt Snelling
Principal | Landscape Architect
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Michelle Ohle
Principal | Landscape Architect
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Rick Kacenski
Principal Emeritus | Advisor
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Shelbey Brittin
Landscape Architect
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Sue Wiest
Principal | Landscape Architect
What
At DTLS, we make tools. From drawings and specifications to meeting notes and field reports, these tools help others - clients, stakeholders, and communities - to realize their visions for the places they live, work, learn, and grow.
Why
Individually, our motivation and approach to work are as unique as our personalities, but we are united by a shared desire to continue learning and advancing as professionals. We’re confident that a growth mindset will lead to ongoing improvement in the quality and impact of our work.
We acknowledge that while we may not make it perfect, we can always make it better.
How
As landscape architects, we pride ourselves on being translators, fluent in the languages of the architect, the engineer, the builder, the client, and the community. We thrive in team environments, where all members' contributions are valued and incorporated.
We assert that good design is a product of hard work, collaboration, and resourcefulness. Our practice is guided by a tried-and-true process that is flexible enough to welcome exploration and experimentation, yet rigorous enough to deliver reliable and accountable results.