profile  SRP Design Studio is a small boutique design studio, started in 2013 by Sara R. Kirk, ASLA. As a native of Benzie County, Sara is excited to return home and practice landscape architecture and design in this amazing part of Michigan. Sara is a registered landscape architect and licensed in Michigan and Tennessee.

education and certifications As a graduate of Michigan State University (Go Green!), Sara holds a distinguished degree in Landscape Architecture with a specialization in Environmental Studies. Along with being a registered landscape architect, Sara is also LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certified as a LEED AP (v2.2 without specialty). She is a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects, ASLA. 

biography  Sara has nearly 20 years of experience in managing and designing a variety of projects. Originally from Arcadia, Michigan, she grew up with a love of nature on her family's beef and fruit farm. Then after graduation from MSU, she had a a brief (but educational) stay with the Lake County Forest Preserve District in Illinois. From there she found an incredible job opportunity in Nashville, Tennessee and worked with a great group of landscape architects for nearly 9 years. 

Working in Downtown Nashville allowed a wide variety of project experience across the Southeastern U.S.; from greenway trails and park planning to commercial site design, high-end residential design to large master planning projects. Sustainable design was at the forefront of all design solutions. Sara has experience with porous pavements, bioretention, rainwater harvesting and green roofs. 

Before moving back to Northern Michigan, she spent about 2 years practicing landscape architecture at UPEA, Inc. out of Marinette, Wisconsin. Many projects included park and recreation planning for small communities across Michigan's Upper Peninsula. While there, she found the time to marry her flying husband Doug (a.k.a. Captain Kirk). He loves flying Sara around in their vintage Piper Clipper to give her unique aerial perspectives on the gorgeous landscapes of the Michigan region!

Sara enjoys and has an appreciation for the artistic side of the profession including graphic design and mapping. She has had the opportunity to design interpretive graphics for trails, schools, streetscapes, and non-profit organizations. 

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