Our gardens help to define contemplative design. After decades of observation, we believe there is a different and better approach than is generally offered by most landscape designers. We seek to express the truth of the world as whole, beyond labels of style and beyond mere solutions to practical considerations. Contemplative design has three aspects: the physical, the energetic, and the metaphysical.It includes a proper understanding of proportion, a correct use of space, and the integration of light and color in ways that are both pleasing to the eye and comfortable to the soul.
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Previously commercial property, this redevelopment on the east end of Pearl Street introduces a contemporary touch to the urban fabric. Individual units have an elegant front entrance as well as private patios in the back. Working to retain stunning views to the Flatirons, tree and plant choices were carefully selected to compliment the architecture as well as provide privacy to the interior of the units.
The Shining Mountain Waldorf School in Boulder, CO is a scholastic institution rooted in the Waldorf philosophy to educate the mind, body, and spirit of its students. Marpa is working with Sopher Sparn Architects and JVA Engineering to provide a multi-phased plan for the Shining Mountain Waldorf School, with the ultimate intention of building a new campus for the school.
Contemplative design and Zen teachings - a look at how we can transform our lives and our work through the lens of Japanese garden design. Garden design is the way of discovering the garden. And the garden is a metaphor for life itself. Part garden design philosophy and part Zen Buddhism, this book eloquently shows us how the principles of garden design are the same guidelines we can follow to design our life.
Providing opportunities for indoor/outdoor living was an important aspect of the project. Beyond the patio is a fire pit, which sits among quaking aspen trees and other native vegetation. But perhaps no detail is as strong-or as emblematic of the home's ethos-as the aluminum-clad wood doors that provide much of the interior with direct access to a large rear courtyard, where the architects and Boulder-based landscape architecture firm Marpa created distinct zones-pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, firepit-for the family to relax and play.
Reviews (6)
Steadman Watson
Dec 07, 2019
We hired MARPA in October 2018 for landscape architectural design and implementation management for our new home in Boulder, Colorado. Our decision to hire MARPA was based on the overall design concept and positive comments from earlier clients. Overall, we were particularly happy with the sand-finished concrete, custom spa and fire-pit areas. MARPA's implementation partner (EDI) does a great job and were on-site reliably and consistently. The perennials and trees that were delivered were all top-notch nursery stock and have grown well since the project was completed in May 2019.
Neely Hemassi
Apr 27, 2019
I am extremely pleased with the beautiful design, landscaping and hardscaping work done by Marpa and their crews. I get compliments on their work from neighbors and guests all the time. We have a very awkward steep slope in the back and the Marpa team completely transformed it. Even though we did several walk-throughs to review the design, I have to say it was hard for me to imagine how stunning the result would be. Luke and his team are total professionals, straight forward, and have total integrity. I would recommend them to anyone for small or large jobs.
David Bachrach
Mar 30, 2018
We've worked with Luke Sanzone for the past six years on our landscape design plan, installation and maintenance and have been extremely pleased with the outcome. The hardscape is magnificent and when dealing with living plants that don't always turn out as we had planned.he and his crew came back and fixed it. Couldn't be more pleased. David and Linda. Boulder, CO
Cynthia Dyess
Jan 11, 2018
Ellen & Ben Kanazawa & Miller
Jun 04, 2017
Martin was very generous in his time in agreeing to undertake a small project like ours. Not only did he design everything, he went out of his way to select the products that would work for our neighborhood and our budget. His design was so far beyond what we expected. Marpa Landscape treated us and our front yard project every bit as important as their large clients. Martin's unsurpassed vision and the ability to complete any type of architectural project they accept with full integrity is what keeps clients returning to Marpa Landscape Architecture and Construction.
Ehren Weiss
May 09, 2017
Marpa's beautiful designs speak for themselves. Their professionalism and ability to communicate with our architect, engineer, and general contractor were invaluable. especially on the front end as we pushed our project through planning and permitting. The installation crew made the plan come alive and we're looking forward to many years enjoying our new home and the landscape of our dreams! Thanks Luke, Forty, and Kate!
