We had the good fortune of connecting with Karla Ortez Colindres and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karla, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The idea for LandStudio came from a combination of professional growth and a very personal life transition. I founded the company in 2009, but the inspiration was rooted much earlier. Growing up in Honduras, I was surrounded by the richness of nature—its textures, colors, and rhythms shaped my perspective and continue to influence my work to this day.

After going through a divorce in my mid-thirties, I found myself at a crossroads. I knew I needed to start a new chapter—one that was true to who I was. I decided to go back to school, guided by a long-standing love for art and art history. Moving into a creative field felt natural—almost inevitable. It was during an architecture class that I truly found my calling. I was captivated by the idea of shaping spaces that bring people—especially children—back into contact with nature.

After earning my Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture, I joined Bermello, Ajamil and Partners, a top South Florida architecture firm, where I gained valuable experience in commercial design and urban planning. But over time, I realized I wanted more freedom to express my own design language. That’s when LandStudio was born—out of a desire to blend creativity, culture, and nature in a way that felt deeply personal.

LandStudio has since become an extension of who I am. It reflects my belief that thoughtful design can transform everyday spaces into meaningful places for connection, play, and restoration.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
LandStudio is a landscape design firm rooted in storytelling, creativity, and connection. We specialize in creating outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal—spaces that reflect the people who live in them, their values, and how they want to feel when they’re outside. What sets us apart is the soul we bring into every project. We’re not just placing plants or designing patios—we’re building environments that people can live in, dream in, and grow in.

What I’m most proud of is how LandStudio has grown organically over the years. I started with no clients, just a deep love for design and a desire to bring people closer to nature. It’s been a journey full of ups and downs, but also so much growth.

At the heart of it all, I got here because I genuinely love what I do. That passion has fueled me through the highs and lows of running a business. It’s not always easy, but I’m lucky every day to do what I love and share that with my clients. What drives me is the opportunity to reimagine outdoor spaces—especially the ones that are often overlooked or underused—and turn them into places people truly enjoy and connect with. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing a client fall in love with a space they never thought twice about before—watching them sip their morning coffee surrounded by greenery, or unwind with a glass of wine. Those everyday moments, when people feel more at peace and connected to nature in their own backyard, are what make this work so meaningful.

If there’s one thing I want people to know about LandStudio, it’s that we design with heart and intention. Our work is about more than aesthetics—it’s about creating meaningful spaces where people can feel grounded, inspired, and at home.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for the week, I’d keep it simple and thoughtful—just a mix of good food, beautiful spaces, and quality time. We’d start with dinner at Mr. C’s Bellini, which is one of my all-time favorites. The food is consistently great, and the service is always warm and professional.

One day would be dedicated to brunch and decor shopping—two of my favorite ways to unwind. We’d start with a relaxed brunch at a local spot with a good menu and no rush, then spend the afternoon browsing design shops and showrooms for inspiration.

I’d definitely schedule a spa day—facials are a ritual for me, and it’s the perfect way to reset.

Most evenings would be spent at home enjoying my lake house, thriving on the slow moments with family and close friends. No big productions—just good conversation, wine, and connection. That’s really my idea of a great time.

We might do a little beach walk or quick stop for a coffee by the water, but for the most part, the week would be about being present, enjoying good food, and sharing the kind of everyday moments that actually matter most.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
When I first started LandStudio and had no clients, it was my friends who took a chance on me. They trusted me to design and update their homes when all I had was a vision and a lot of passion. Their support and belief in me gave me my first real opportunities, and thanks to them, LandStudio wouldn’t be where it is today.

My kids have also been a big part of this journey. They’ve always been incredibly supportive of my work and encouraged me to keep going with my passion. We studied together when I was in school, and they’ve reminded me—especially during the tough times—just how impressive it is to be an entrepreneur and how far I’ve come.

And I can’t end this shoutout without giving a huge thank you to my team. LandStudio wouldn’t be what it is today without the incredible people I work with—my team of architects/designers, installers, talented subcontractors, and the amazing friends I’ve made over the years sourcing plant material in Homestead. Every single one of them has played a role in shaping this dream into a reality.

Website: https://www.landstudiomiami.com

Instagram: landstudiomia

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/landstudiomia

Other: Reach out to us at: Hello@landstudiomiami.com

https://linktr.ee/landstudiomia?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=4997e9da-f042-4e15-b282-b7ca9b2d2918

Image Credits
Photographer – Russell Film Company

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.