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Inside the Career - A Landscape Architect's Path at McDugald Steele

An Interview with Adam Morocco, Business Development Director

From Design Associate to Business Development Director, Adam Morocco's career path at McDugald Steele showcases the diverse opportunities available to landscape architects within our design-build firm. As a licensed landscape architect who has worked across almost every department, Adam offers unique insights into what it is really like to build a landscape architecture career here. Discover how creative vision, technical expertise, collaborative teamwork shape professional growth at McDugald Steele.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in landscape architecture?

I have always had an appreciation for the intersection of design, nature, and the built environment. What really drew me to landscape architecture was the ability to shape outdoor spaces in a way that enhances how people experience and interact with their surroundings. It is both creative and technical, and I enjoy that balance, being able to design beautiful environments while also solving real-world challenges like drainage, grading, and long-term sustainability.

Q: How did you get started in the field, and what led you to McDugald Steele?

I started out with a strong interest in design and construction, and early on I was lucky to work on projects that exposed me to the full spectrum, from conceptual design to execution in the field. I was drawn to McDugald Steele because of its reputation for excellence and the opportunity to work on some of the most refined residential landscapes in the region. The design-build model here was a perfect fit, it allows for a level of detail and accountability that I really value.

Q: Can you share a bit about your journey at McDugald Steele and how your role has evolved over time?

I started at McDugald Steele right out of college, stepping into the role of a design associate. Working with a team of incredibly talented and experienced landscape architects gave me a strong foundation not only in design but also in understanding how to work through complex residential projects. Over time, I grew into a project landscape architect role, taking on more responsibility with design development, client interaction, and project management.

Eventually, I transitioned into a leadership position overseeing our installation and maintenance divisions. That experience gave me a much deeper appreciation for the construction side of our work and how important proper execution is to realize the design intent. Now, I am focused on business development, building relationships, helping clients bring their vision to life, and ensuring that from the first conversation to the final plant in the ground, we are delivering excellence.

It has been a rewarding journey, and I feel lucky to have grown with a team that values both creativity and craftsmanship.

Q: Is there a particular project you’ve worked on at McDugald Steele that you’re especially proud of?

Yes, there is one project in particular that really stands out. We had the opportunity to work with a client who placed complete trust in our design team. That level of confidence gave us the freedom to think outside the box and push the creative boundaries, which made the design process incredibly rewarding.

The property included a wide variety of garden spaces, each with its own character and function, from formal areas to more naturalistic plantings, all tied together with thoughtful transitions and strong architectural elements. It was a large-scale project with many moving parts, and we worked closely with other design professionals and the builder to bring everything together seamlessly.

There were definitely challenges, site constraints, logistical coordination, and ensuring every detail lived up to the vision, but the collaboration made it all possible. What is most fulfilling is that the gardens have become more than just a private retreat, they are visited by others in the community during events held on the property. It is incredibly satisfying to know that something we created is not only enjoyed by the client but also appreciated by so many others.

Q: What are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in your career?

One key lesson is that listening is everything. Whether it's a client, a subcontractor, or someone on our internal team, understanding perspectives and communicating clearly can make or break a project. I have also learned that flexibility and patience are critical. Projects evolve, and you have got to be able to adapt while keeping the end vision in focus.

Q: What aspects of landscape architecture or horticulture do you find most exciting?

For me, the most exciting part is the design process, taking a client’s vision or even just a feeling they want their space to evoke, and turning that into a garden that’s both beautiful and functional. I love working with plant material, thinking through texture, color, scale, and seasonality and how those elements can transform a space.

There is also something incredibly rewarding about the collaborative aspect of our work. I enjoy partnering with architects, interior designers, builders, and especially the clients themselves to create something cohesive and lasting. Seeing a project come together and watching a client experience their garden for the first time, that is the best part. It is about creating something truly special that enhances how they live and interact with their environment every day.

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