Resisting Conformity Through Craftsmanship - 1.25 PDH (LA CES/non-HSW)

Recorded On: 09/16/2026

What if our definition of projects' cultural performance and social equity included not only benefits to end users, but the craftspeople and contractors who bring the landscape to life? How do we advocate for craftsmanship as a way to resist the homogenizing impacts of mass-production that are increasingly pervasive?

Learning objectives:

Examine the collaborative dynamics between craftsperson, general contractor, and landscape architect, and how their distinct design philosophies and processes shape the built product.
Articulate why preserving craft, craftsmanship, and skilled labor is important, and how to advocate for it on projects.
Examine the social inequities embedded in the accessibility and distribution of crafted works, who is included and who is left out from its benefits.
Discuss how elevating craftsmanship challenges the increasing standardization of design and a built environment shaped by automation and AI.

Isabella Welch, ASLA

Landscape Architect

Design Workshop

Isabella Welch is a licensed landscape architect in California and has been practicing high end residential design with Design Workshop for 6 years. With degrees in Ecology and Chinese from the University of Delaware, she worked as a field dendrologist for the National Park Service before going on to receive her MLA from Cornell University in 2019. She is interested in creating landscapes that feel like home and strongly dislikes lawns.

Kela M. Martinez

Regional Principal

DOWBUILT

As principal of our Southern California region, Kela has built a thriving and diverse team dedicated to creating one-of-a-kind residences. Leading one of our largest regions, she demonstrates an unparalleled work ethic and excels in guiding teams from project conception through completion. Kela understands that a good builder shares the client's vision, takes ownership of its execution, and is committed to meeting every project priority.

Kela holds dual degrees in architecture and construction management from the University of Washington. She worked on mixed-use development projects in downtown Manhattan before relocating to Los Angeles in 2015.

Elena Colombo

President, Owner

Colombo Construction Corp DBA FireFeatures

Elena Colombo is a sculptor, architectural designer & founder of FIREFEATURES, a firm specializing in the design & manufacture of bespoke fire & water features, environmental sculpture, memorials & markers.

Colombo works in bronze, steel & stone to create works that extend art & architecture into the landscape while also addressing our fundamental need for the natural elements earth, air, fire & water.

Elena graduated from Trinity College in Hartford, CT with a BA in fine arts & art history & continued her education in the arts at the Museum School in Boston, MA. She lives & works in NYC.