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Lily Pad Springs
west Bloomfield township, michigan
The development of Lily Pad Springs, one of the largest splash pads in Michigan, began when the West Bloomfield Parks + Recreation Commission recognized the opportunity…
Crystal Mountain Resort
thompsonville, michigan
Crystal Mountain is a 1,500 acre four season ski and golf resort located in northern Michigan. Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio began working with members of the resort’s management team in 1989…
The Betsie Valley Trail
Benzie County, michigan
The Betsie Valley Trail extends over 20 miles along the former Ann Arbor Railroad right-of-way, connecting Frankfort, Elberta, Beulah and Thompsonville…
Our Work
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Gezon Park
WYOMING, Michigan
Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio was hired to prepare a comprehensive plan for the relatively undeveloped 95-acre Gezon Park, which included extensive engagement with City staff and the local community. The final plan included a splash pad, parking facilities, various levels of walking trails, two playgrounds, pavilions, picnic areas, and restrooms. JHLE then prepared design development and construction documents for the first phase of park development. Phase one features include a splash pad, a large pavilion, restrooms, parking, an event lawn, fabric shade structures, and paved pathways.
Ellsworth Boardwalk
Wayne County, Michigan
Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio was hired to prepare a comprehensive plan for the relatively undeveloped 95-acre Gezon Park, which included extensive engagement with City staff and the local community. The final plan included a splash pad, parking facilities, various levels of walking trails, two playgrounds, pavilions, picnic areas, and restrooms. JHLE then prepared design development and construction documents for the first phase of park development. Phase one features include a splash pad, a large pavilion, restrooms, parking, an event lawn, fabric shade structures, and paved pathways.
Kenning Park
Birmingham, Michigan
Kenning Park is a long-established community park in Birmingham, Michigan. JHLE prepared a master plan for the park in 2013 and has since provided design, construction documentation, and construction administration services for two implementation phases stemming from that original master plan process. These projects included parking lot improvements and two redesigned little league ballfields with turf infields, black vinyl fencing, dugouts, and scoreboards.
Independence Lake
Beach Center
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Independence Lake County Park is one of Washtenaw County’s flagship parks. In 2023 the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission hired Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio as part of a multi-disciplinary team to conduct a facility assessment for the beach center building, surrounding site and maintenance facility. JHLE then prepared a concept plan for the beach center which included an expanded beach area, multiple children’s play areas, a boat rental building, volleyball courts, a fishing dock, and an extensive network of pathways.
Glen Arbor Township Parks and Recreation
Glen Arbor, Michigan
The Glen Arbor Township Parks and Recreation Board engaged Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to assist with the development of a Five-year Community Recreation Plan. The planning process consisted of two different public open houses, multiple stakeholder meetings and focus groups, an online survey, and a final presentation to the Township Board. Recommendations included the development of partnerships with the National Park Service and other surrounding recreation providers while developing recreation programming throughout all four seasons.
University of Michigan North Campus Housing
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio, in collaboration in InSite Design worked closely with a multi-disciplinary team to develop a site and landscaping plan for the proposed housing project on the University of Michigan’s North Campus. The project consisted of three 5-story residential towers with outdoor courtyard space to support student activities, streetscape treatments along Murfin Avenue, and connections to nearby facilities, bus routes, and the core of north campus.
West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan
West Bloomfield Township, Michigan
The West Bloomfield Parks & Recreation Commission recognized the opportunity to assess their parks and recreation system and engaged Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to develop a strategic parks and recreation plan. The plan consisted of four components titled, Today, Aspirations, Recommendations, and Tomorrow and, after an extensive community engagement process, helped to identify multiple objectives that will help serve the conservation, recreation, and social needs of the community.
Wilcox Lake Recreation Area
Wayne County, Michigan
In 2023, Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio was hired by Wayne County Parks to assist with the development of a comprehensive plan for the Wilcox Lake Recreation Area. This comprehensive plan included a pump track, playground, parking areas, pathways, and boardwalks. JHLE further developed construction documents for the first phase of development which involved collaboration with an environmental consultant to develop shoreline improvements that allowed for pedestrian access but did not conflict with the need to develop quality habitat.
Fishtown
Leland, Michigan
Fishtown is a nationally recognized historic and cultural treasure. The site has evolved from a commercial fishing hub to a major tourist destination offering a mix of commercial fishing, charter rentals, and retail shops. JHLE’s first work at Fishtown was the preparation of “The River Runs Through It – Report on Historic Structures and Site Design in the Fishtown Cultural Landscape” with Laurie Kay Sommers, Ph.D., and Hopkins Burns Design Studio. Current work includes accessibility improvements, stormwater infrastructure, a redesigned entry and ongoing planning efforts.
The Treeline Conservancy
Ann Arbor, Michigan
The Treeline is a proposed urban trail that weaves through Ann Arbor, connecting both people and places. In 2023, the Treeline Conservancy approached Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to assist with the planning and conceptual design for a ¼ mile section of trail that transitions from an on-grade path to an elevated pedestrian bridge structure. Other elements of the project included site investigation, a feasibility study and pocket park design.
Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Plan
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio partnered with PROS Consulting to provide the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission an updated Parks and Recreation plan for 2025-2029. This plan included an extensive public engagement process utilizing multiple public meetings, focus groups, stakeholder interviews, a statistically valid survey, and an informal online survey. Other components of the plan include an updated recreation inventory, ADA evaluation, program assessment, level of service analysis, and action plan.
Mary Free Bed
Rehabilitation Hospital
Saginaw, Michigan
This small garden courtyard at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital at Covenant Healthcare provides staff, patients, and visitors alike with a variety of spaces for brief respites, outdoor meals, and small gatherings. Seven-foot concrete walls function to provide some degree of separation and help to create the illusion of a larger space. A water feature, landscape plantings and wood pergolas add layers of visual interest and contribute to a rich outdoor experience.
Riverview Recreation Area
Wayne county, Michigan
Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio was engaged by Wayne County Parks for the design of several park amenities to complement the habitat restoration work planned for Riverview Recreation Area. One of the major undertakings included the rerouting of a pedestrian trail to allow for habitat restoration and eliminate ongoing safety concerns. The trail was relocated adjacent to Hines Drive and utilized a combination of asphalt trail and elevated boardwalk. Other amenities included three new paved parking areas, bioretention gardens, tree plantings, site furnishings, signage, and a new soccer field.
Mount Bohemia
Comprehensive Plan
Mowhawk, Michigan
Mount Bohemia, which was voted the No. 1 ski resort in the U.S. by USA Today readers in 2023, is located in the Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan’s upper peninsula. Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio assisted resort owner Lonie Glieberman in developing a comprehensive development plan, expanding resort amenities, lodging and other attractions that support skiing and appeal to visitors during the spring, summer and fall seasons.
The Mill
Vicksburg, Michigan
The Vicksburg Mill is one of the last standing iconic structures that reflects the legacy of the Kalamazoo Valley Paper Industry. The Mill was purchased to avoid demolition and the planning process to bring the 425,000 square foot building and expanded site began. The overall goal for the future mixed-use development is to remain an integrated part of the community but also become a destination for those seeking a wonderful and unique experience. JHLE has been involved in the comprehensive planning and detailed site design for the project.
Handley School Playground
Saginaw, Michigan
The playground for this elementary school focuses on children from ages 5-12 and features several ways to climb, slide, and creatively stretch imaginations. Play elements include a basket swing, zip line, rope pendulum swing, multiple slides, and climbing mounds. Characteristics to be incorporated into the playground design as requested by teachers, parents, and operations staff included the use of plant material for shade and spatial definition, the use of wood where feasible, and a design that promotes the ease of management, monitoring, and maintenance.
Marshview Park
Oakland Township, Michigan
Marsh View Park is an established park in Oakland Township. Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio was hired by the Township to assist with the design of a new parking lot and entry drive to serve an existing soccer field and archery range. The project also included improvements to the existing archery range, the addition of accessible pathways, and stormwater improvements. All disturbed areas were restored with native grass and meadow plantings.
University Commons
Superior Township, Michigan
University Commons is a 20-acre condominium community in Ann Arbor. Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio prepared an assessment of the existing landscape to determine the potential causes for the landscape’s overall decline. Responses to this assessment included selective new plantings, the reworking of maintenance procedures, and the preparation of an extensive maintenance manual for both existing and new plantings.
Marriott at Eagle
Crest Courtyard
Ypsilanti, Michigan
In 2021, the Marriott at Eagle Crest engaged Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to develop a landscape plan for the area surrounding a new accessory building designed to accommodate weddings and other events. In addition to the event venue, JHLE also developed a concept for the redesign of an outdated courtyard space that incorporated a water feature, event lawn, trellises, enhanced landscaping, an outdoor fireplace, and ample outdoor seating.
Carpenter Lake
Nature Preserve
Southfield, Michigan
Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio prepared a comprehensive plan and construction documents for the initial phase of improvements at the Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve. Improvements included nature trails, boardwalks, interpretive signage, and fishing platforms. Support facilities such as parking, trail head improvements, and access controls, were also included. Sustainability was a key component of the design which features pervious pavements, bioswales, and native plantings.
Northfield Township
Community Park
Northfield township, Michigan
The relatively undeveloped Township Community Park was identified by Township staff as a valuable asset which should be utilized. The Township hired Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to develop a comprehensive plan for the site, which consisted of a multi-part community engagement process where several concepts were created and presented to the public for comment. This valuable feedback was then used in the formulation of the final comprehensive plan.
Secrest Nature Preserve
Superior, Michigan
The Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy (SMLC) acquired roughly 80-acres in Superior Township with plans to open it up to the public as a nature preserve. With no onsite parking, visitors were parking along the side of the road, developing into a safety concern. In 2022, Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio worked with SMLC to design a small gravel parking area, giving visitors a safe place to park and easily access the existing trail network. Other project elements included wood bollards, a custom trailhead kiosk, and preserve identification signs.
Zeeland Downtown
Vision Plan
Zeeland, Michigan
The City of Zeeland engaged Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to assist in developing a vision for the City’s Downtown area. After multiple community and stakeholder meetings, a final vision plan was developed outlining suggestions to revitalize their Downtown. Over the years, JHLE has had the opportunity to work with the City on several planning projects building on the themes identified in the original vision plan.
Dublin Elementary School
White Lake, Michigan
When the new Dublin Elementary School was constructed in 2022, JHLE was tasked with assisting in the design of three distinct play areas, one to serve pre-kindergarten, one to serve the lower elementary students, and a third to serve the upper elementary students. In addition to the playgrounds, JHLE designed two outdoor classrooms, a paved sport court and landscaping.
Sibley Prairie Nature Preserve
Brownstone, Michigan
The Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy contacted Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to assist with the planning and design of an improved connection between the preserve’s parking area and trail network. The existing circulation required visitors to walk along a stretch of busy road, and by incorporating a boardwalk to cross a county drain JHLE was able to create a more direct and safer connection. JHLE provided construction documents, permitting and construction administration for the project.
Ridge Creek at Heritage
Community of Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Ridge Creek is a new independent living community set within the larger Heritage independent and assisted living campus. The four-story structure includes a courtyard entry, water feature and gathering space, and underground parking. Extensive plantings were used throughout the grounds to enhance privacy and provide views of the gardens, woodlands, and meadows. Walking paths wind through the site allowing for residents to explore the outdoor areas.
Ann Arbor Airport
Ann Arbor, Michigan
The Ann Arbor Airport contacted Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio with the idea of developing a small park near the airport terminal. This park would offer both historical and educational information about aviation as well as provide an optimal area to view airplanes arriving and departing on the adjacent runway. A pavilion was incorporated in the design to offer shade and seating to airport visitors and employees looking to take a lunch break on a warm summer day.
Walled Lake Early
Childhood Center
novi, Michigan
The Early Childhood Center in Walled Lake was designed with Miracle Playsystems equipment and included a playhouse, swings, a basket swing, sandbox, and two play structures. One of the unique features of this playground is the artificial turf mound with embankment slide and accessible bridge. The bridge allowed children to easily access the mound and slide while the bridge provided an additional play feature which children could crawl under.
Inglenook Park
Southfield, Michigan
Inglenook Park is a popular park located in Southfield that was fortunate to receive a Land and Water Trust Fund grant to implement improvements. Funding from that grant was used to update a 4-field complex including a new centrally located pavilion, bleachers, backstops, outfield fencing, dugouts, stormwater improvements and pervious paving.
County Farm Park
Ann Arbor, Michigan
The design of this unique play area at County Farm Park began with a public workshop where Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission and Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio identified priorities and ideas from the community. The final design included garden plots with raised beds, themed discovery gardens, and sensory gardens to stimulate and educate young gardeners. The playground has proven to be a successful intergenerational space, providing a unique and enjoyable experience for all users.
Fisk Farm
White Lake township, Michigan
Fisk Farm is a historic farm property that has transitioned to a park and event venue, and now is home to multiple historic structures from the surrounding area. Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio in collaboration with Lincoln A Poley, Architect assisted White Lake Township with the conceptual design of a pavilion that matches the historical character of other structures on the site. The pavilion design was part of an overall framework plan for the site.
Michigan Legacy Art Park
Thomasville, Michigan
Michigan Legacy Art Park is located near Crystal Mountain Resort and features over 50 sculptures. Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio work with Michigan Legacy Art Park began in 1995 and continues today. Our work has included site planning, amphitheater and Discovery Grove design, and accessibility improvements across very steep terrain. The amphitheater’s rustic setting seats approximately 175 people and is used for educational, cultural and small performance events.
Meadow Brook Hall
rochester, Michigan
A National Historic Landmark, Meadow Brook Hall is a museum, cultural center, and the fourth-largest historic home in the nation. Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio, in collaboration with Hopkins Burns Design Studio, studied the feasibility of developing a permanent year-round event building for the large and increasing demand for social event space.
St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea
Pedestrian Pathway Plan
Chelsea, Michigan
St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Chelsea engaged Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to assist with the development of a campus wide pedestrian pathway plan. In an effort to both facilitate circulation between the multiple buildings and parking areas located on the campus and promote health and wellness by increasing walking path options for patients and visitors, the plan serves as a road map for future pathway development.
Advia Credit Union Headquarters
oshtemo, Michigan
Advia Credit Union hired Byce and Associates to develop a new headquarters building, who then enlisted Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to assist with site and landscape design. The 37-acre property in Oshtemo Township included extensive landscaping, especially within the landscape buffers along the perimeter of the property, a small trail network surrounding a pond, and multiple outdoor event/gathering spaces.
Grand Haven
Waterfront Stadium
Grand Haven, Michigan
The aging bleachers at the Grand Haven Waterfront Stadium were in need of replacement, so the City engaged Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio to develop a plan to renovate and reenergize the waterfront property and create an attractive and flexible multi-use space for community gatherings. JHLE developed a conceptual design which included an upper plaza area, terraced seating consisting of low concrete walls and turf panels, a lower plaza along the water, and an elevated stage area.
Saginaw Forest
Ann ARbor, Michigan
Saginaw Forest is one of several forest properties owned by the University of Michigan School of Environment and Sustainability. This 80-acre parcel, dominated by historic forestry plantations, is used primarily for field research, though it is open to the public for limited recreational use. Johnson Hill Land Ethics Studio was hired by the University to develop a comprehensive plan to improve site access, increase recreational activity and facilitate overall management of the forest. The first phase of construction included the implementation of site-sensitive boardwalks and trails.
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