Kimberlee Douglas

Kimberlee Douglas is an Associate Professor and Director of the Landscape Architecture Program at Philadelphia University within the College of Architecture & the Built Environment. A licensed landscape architect (RLA) with ASLA, LEED, and GA credentials, she has served as full-time faculty since 2009 and maintains an active private practice through her award-winning firm STUDIO GAEA.

Her educational background includes:

• MA in Landscape Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania (studied under ecological planning pioneer Ian McHarg)
• BS in Landscape Architecture from Temple University

Professor Douglas specializes in Sustainable Design and Urban Design with deep expertise in Ecological Planning, focusing on how natural systems intersect with social, historic, and economic frameworks to create meaningful places. Her research examines the effects of nature contact on children, while her teaching emphasizes interdisciplinary design studios, sustainable planting design, and community-driven solutions for urban neighborhood revitalization. She actively promotes landscape architecture through high school outreach and professional mentorship programs.

Her distinguished recognition includes:

• George Madden Boughton Prize in Design Excellence in Landscape Architecture
• LEED certification for Winter Garden and Plaza at Comcast Center (as lead designer)
• Cynwyd Heritage Trail brownfield rehabilitation award
• Linwood Avenue Park Plan sustainable design award
• ASLA Community Service Award for pro bono community engagement

Holding the Stantec Term Chair in Landscape Architecture, she advances research while directing the academic program and leading STUDIO GAEA. Her community involvement spans the ACE Mentor Program, Environmental Leadership Program, and Community Design Collaborative, where she develops sustainable solutions for underserved urban neighborhoods through interdisciplinary collaboration and student engagement.