Returning Home, Finding Purpose

Kathy’s journey began in Northwest Indiana. After gaining valuable early experience and brief stint in Vermont she moved to South West Michigan and began her work with Abonmarche. “I’ve been with Abonmarche for over 32 years,” she says. “I came back to the area because it’s home.” Kathy’s work embraces a naturalistic design aesthetic—spaces that appear to have been shaped by nature itself. She attributes this approach to the influence of legendary landscape architect Jens Jensen. “Early in my career, I worked on parks originally designed by Jensen. He probably influenced my design philosophy more than anyone else.”

Sustainability with Soul

Sustainability is woven into every element of Kathy’s work. From the reuse of materials to intentional plant selection, she designs with both longevity and ecology in mind. But for Kathy, sustainability is about more than environmental stewardship—it’s about creating spaces that people love, use, and return to time and again.

Designing for Community

When asked to name a favorite project, Kathy finds it difficult to choose just one. “There are several that come to mind,” she says. Among them:

• Allegan Riverfront, where a former parking lot was transformed into a vibrant destination complete with a music venue, splash pad, and public gathering spaces.
• New Buffalo Streetscape, a reimagining of downtown that revitalized the community’s public realm.
• Jean Klock Park, where she helped restore elements of Jens Jensen’s original design while incorporating modern amenities.
• Harbor Shores, including her current work on the Wee Golf Course, designed as a short course for golfers of all ages.
  

Challenges and Triumphs

Designing public spaces often comes with challenges—especially budgetary constraints. “Site elements are often the first to go,” Kathy notes. Yet she remains committed to balancing aesthetics, function, and sustainability. Her guiding principle? “Designs should never feel forced—they should feel like they’ve always belonged.”

A Fun Twist on the Journey

One of the more unexpected moments in Kathy’s story? “I turned down a full-paid scholarship to cosmetology school,” she laughs. “My English teacher probably convinced me it wasn’t the right path—likely after seeing my hair!”
Kathy’s passion, experience, and connection to place have left an enduring legacy—not only at Abonmarche, but in the communities she’s helped shape. Her work continues to evolve and inspire, just like the spaces she so thoughtfully brings to life.

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Abonmarche is proud to announce that James Escamilla, PE, has been honored with the Felix A. Anderson Image Award by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan (ACEC/Michigan). This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the engineering profession, demonstrated exceptional leadership, and fostered public appreciation of the engineering industry’s role in improving quality of life.

A Legacy of Leadership and Excellence

Jim’s engineering career began in 1981, leading to key leadership roles at Tower Pinkster and WBDC. In 1997, he took a bold step by acquiring RC Byce & Associates, where he served as President/CEO for over 26 years. Under his leadership, Byce & Associates became a trusted leader in engineering and architectural design, celebrated for its commitment to quality and innovation. In 2023, Byce & Associates merged with Abonmarche, further expanding the firm’s capabilities and solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

“Jim’s leadership, mentorship, and industry advocacy have set the standard for engineering excellence.” — Alex Newman

The Felix A. Anderson Image Award: Recognizing Outstanding Engineers

The Felix A. Anderson Image Award is named after a pioneer in the field of engineering and is one of the highest honors given by ACEC/Michigan. This award recognizes engineers who:

• Enhance public awareness of the engineering profession
• Champion programs that promote pride in engineering
• Encourage leadership within the profession
• Improve the public image of engineering

Jim’s career embodies all of these qualities, making him the perfect recipient of this honor. His contributions have not only advanced engineering standards but also elevated the industry’s reputation. Jim has served in leadership roles with ACEC/Michigan, ASHRAE, CAMEE, and MSPE, where he mentored young engineers, advocated for the profession, and worked to ensure that engineering remains a respected career.

Mentorship and Legacy

Jim’s influence extends far beyond his professional success. Through his mentorship and advocacy, he has helped countless engineers build successful careers. Many of these individuals now hold leadership roles within Abonmarche, professional organizations, and their local communities. Jim’s work continues to shape the future of engineering, leaving an enduring legacy of leadership and mentorship.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

The Felix A. Anderson Image Award honors Jim Escamilla’s decades of dedication to public engagement, mentorship, and engineering excellence. This recognition highlights his commitment to improving the engineering industry and fostering a strong, supportive community for future generations of engineers.

Please join us in congratulating Jim Escamilla for this remarkable achievement and celebrating his outstanding contributions to the field of engineering!

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Abonmarche is lucky to have some of the industry’s most talented and experienced landscape architects. In celebration of Landscape Architecture Month, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Senior Landscape Architect and Project Manager Tom Runkle to talk about his journey and experiences in the field.

Tom told us his story of finding his calling in landscape architecture.

“As a teen, I had a natural inclination towards drawing and design. In high school, I took various drafting and architecture classes that only fueled my passion further. Upon graduating high school, I enrolled in college – intending to major in architecture. However, during my first year, I took an introductory class in landscape architecture and worked on a few studio projects that involved designing outdoor spaces.”

“That’s when it hit me – landscape architecture was a better fit for me. I was drawn to the idea of creating beautiful, functional outdoor spaces that could positively impact people’s lives. Since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to pursue a career in landscape architecture and have never looked back.”

In his work at Abonmarche, Tom emphasizes his focus on working closely with clients to listen, and to understand their needs and their vision.

“Collaboration is essential to the success of any project, and it’s our job as landscape architects to educate our clients on what landscape architecture is and what is possible for their landscape. My approach is grounded in the balance of client needs, creative design solutions, budgets, and constructability based on the circumstances of each respective project.”

Tom’s recent work on community-driven built projects across West Michigan and Northern Indiana include the brand new New Buffalo Dune Walk in New Buffalo, Michigan; the St. Joseph Water Taxi Station 3 in Benton Harbor, Michigan; traffic safety improvements at Mishawaka High School; New Buffalo’s Waterfront Master Plan; and St. Joseph Sports Park in St. Joseph, Michigan.

As a company, we are proud to have landscape architects like Tom on our team, who are dedicated to creating beautiful, sustainable outdoor spaces that enhance people’s lives.

Contact Us today to learn more about our landscape architecture practice.