Kate O'Hara's curriculum vitae outlines her education and experience in landscape architecture. She has a Bachelor's in Design and Landscape Architecture from the University of Canberra as well as a Diploma in Financial Services. Her skills include software programs like AutoCAD and Adobe programs as well as graphic design, drawing, and office management. She has worked on projects for Queanbeyan City Council, community gardens, and the University of Canberra. References and examples of her landscape design work are also included.

1. Kate O’Hara
Landscape Architecture Portfolio
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2. P r o f i l e
I am a creative and capable landscape student offering versatile skills in many areas of landscape architecture with both professional and academic experience.
I consider myself a person with excellent communication skills, business ethics and motivated to learn and assume responsibilities both in large
and small team environments.
E d u c a t i o n
2012 – 2015 Bachelor of Design / Bachelor of Landscape Architecture
University of Canberra
2009 Diploma of Financial Services (Financial Planning)
Kaplan Professional Australia
S k i l l s
Software InDesign / Photoshop / AutoCAD / Sketchup / Microsoft Office Applications / MYOB / General Graphic Design work.
Drawing Plan / Section / Perspective Drawings of landscape spaces.
Office Office Management / Executive Support / Event Management.
M e m b e r s h i p s & A w a r d s
2015 LinkedIn 2013 Dean’s Excellence Award (Semester 2)
https://au.linkedin.com/pub/kate-o-hara/b3/881/9ba University of Canberra
2014 Australian Institute of Landscape Architects 2012 Dean’s Excellence Award
Canberra Region University of Canberra
2013 Golden Key International Honour Society
Asia-Pacific
W o r k E x p e r i e n c e s
2015 Queanbeyan City Council
Barrack’s Flat Park
I was invited to tender and prepare a concept design for proposed landscape works at Barrack’s Flat Park as part of the ongoing CBD Master Plan. A concept design was developed
which complimented historical and functional aspects through staged strategies which allowed successful outcomes from a limited budget. A multifaceted planting plan was
developed through existing environmental influences and historical planting characteristics. The following testimonial was provided by council worker Debbie Sibbick:
“I engaged Kate for an initial landscape project to design a concept for the redevelopment of a recreational reserve in Queanbeyan as she was reasonably priced. What I discovered was that Kate
went above and beyond my expectation in designing this concept. Not only was the concept of a very high quality but it was extremely relevant to the site. Kate had researched the site, consulted
with the neighbouring residents and researched the historical significance of the site through the local museum. I was extremely impressed with Kate’s commitment to this job. I wouldn’t
hesitate in recommending Kate for any future landscape design works. We will certainly be calling on Kate again for our future needs.”
C u r r i c u l u m V i t a e
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3. W o r k i n g E x p e r i e n c e s
2014 Erindale Neighbourhood Garden
Community Garden
Develop a landscape design master plan for the Erindale Neighbourhood community garden project. Achieved project objectives through effective planning of considered elements
such as age groups, disability services, functionality, identity, maintenance, etc. Created maintenance strategies to incorporate into existing volunteer support mechanisms. The
following testimonial was provided the Erindale Neighbourhood Garden Coordinator, Karen Macpherson:
“A group of community organisations is starting a neighbourhood garden at Erindale in Canberra in early 2015. Kate O'Hara of Soul2Soil Landscape Design provided a terrific concept design for our
garden. From consultation to on-time delivery of a thoughtfully produced design, Kate was interested and professional. Kate listened to what we wanted in our garden. She developed her design
with those specifications incorporated, and built on them with creative flair. Kate's design will help us build the garden we wanted.”
2013 University of Canberra
Community Garden
In collaboration with other faculties, I was involved in the design and construction of the campus’ community garden. Practicable and functional aspects were paramount whilst
adhering to a strict time schedule. Outcome produced a sustainable hub for faculties to produce local harvest and for surrounding community groups to engage with the University.
E m p l o y m e n t
2010 - 2012 Bosom Buddies ACT Inc
Office Manager and Non-Voting Committee Member
2008 - 2009 Bridges Financial Services Pty Ltd
Client Services Manager
2008 Evans Yeend Family Lawyers
Legal Secretary
1999 - 2008 Creative Edge Secretarial Services
Business Manager
1995 - 1999 AXA Australian Health Insurance
Personal Assistant
1994 - 1995 Turnbull Fox Phillips
Administrative Assistant
R e f e r e n c e s
Dr Susan Boden Ms Debbie Sibbick Mr Graham Fletcher Ms Azra Khan
Landscape Studio Convenor Technical Officer – Parks & Recreation UC Lecturer (2015) azra.khan.canberra@gmail.com
University of Canberra Queanbeyan City Council fletcher.landscape@gmail.com
Mobile 0406 566 460 Mobile 0427 238 149
C u r r i c u l u m V i t a e
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GPO Box 2994
CANBERRA ACT 2601
0418 544 437
kmohara@optusnet.com.au

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P r o f e s s i o n a l A s s e s s m e n t

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P r o f e s s i o n a l A s s e s s m e n t

6. C u r r i c u l u m V i t a e 2
C a n b e r r a I s l a m i c C e n t r e 7
B a r r a c k ’ s F l a t P a r k 1 3
B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 1 5
B r i s b a n e A v e n u e – B a r t o n 2 3
B e a c h p o r t ( S o u t h A u s t r a l i a ) A c c e s s M a s t e r P l a n 2 5
B r i a n H e n n e s s y H o u s e 2 7
Q u e a n b e y a n R i v e r C o r r i d o r 3 1
C o n t e n t s
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7. P a r a d i s e G a r d e n
This project presented an opportunity to be involved in a
realistic client engagement whereby traditional design
sequences of research, inventory, analysis, public participation,
design and critique were essential to its success.
At the start of the year, emphasis was given to research
whereby collaborative actions through selected partnerships
enabled a cross section of results and findings which enhanced
and further questioned design principles and key outcomes.
Schematic and conceptual designs were produced and built
upon through mentorships and university principles who
provided feedback and encouragement whilst also addressing
key individual design skills and knowledge.
Over the course of the year, design vision was altered to include
unique and functional options which would lead to further
development and opportunities of the original site.
The Canberra Islamic Centre Paradise Garden design project
presented an opportunity to bring to life explorations of design
through Islamic and Australian influences. The landscape vision
for this project encompassed a design outcome that would
meet the social needs of the Canberra Islamic Community
through specific design guidelines. In order to foster insightful
and sensitive applications, it was imperative to explore the
human element and it’s behavioural forms and how these
aspects exist within the centre and the wider Tuggeranong
community; bringing forth opportunities to contribute to the
urban fabric of the south side of Canberra.
C a n b e r r a I s l a m i c C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
S I T E A N A L Y S I S D E S I G N P R I N C I P L E S
B O U N D A R Y C O N S T R A I N T S
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8. C a n b e r r a I s l a m i c C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
P a r a d i s e G a r d e n
Visual Analysis & Schematic Design
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9. C a n b e r r a I s l a m i c C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
The backbone of this design and the reason it’s functionality works
so well is due to the influence and implementation of the
traditional Charhar-Baghdesign element. The existing
building (courtyard pillars) enabled a structured pathway to form
the axial paths which encourage movement and circulation in and
around the space.
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10. C a n b e r r a I s l a m i c C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
Curvilinear raised seating under tree grove plantings
Centre axis of garden
Community members sitting under grove setting
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11. C a n b e r r a C e n t e n a r y
T r a i l P a r k
The simplicity of this park is why is works so well. The main
feature is the axial pathways which link to the CIC garden
pathways; encouraging a strong link due to the visual
imagery of planted tree avenues. Winding paths traverse
through this main pathway creating mystery and curiosity.
Sculptural elements are purposefully positioned in order to
create movement and interest through casting shadows.
Small coherent spaces open up through the thinning of tree
canopies, providing opportunities for picnicking and
recreational usage. Traversing pathway surfaces are
crushed granite which are contrasted with a more formal and
functional setting of pavers. These two textures balance well
with one another, one increasing the textural quality of
exploration and the other acknowledging a formal visual cue
of direction.
The experience should be one of exploration and
participation whereby people are encouraged to venture out
and explore their environment; offer possibilities of discovery
and adventure. It is people’s exploration of a space and from
considering options, wondering and imagining that places
become cherished memories.
C a n b e r r a I s l a m i c C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
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12. C a n b e r r a I s l a m i c C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
C a n b e r r a C e n t e n a r y T r a i l P a r k
New axis’ created from the central garden design improves circulation and directional
opportunities, whilst also strengthening South Canberra’s urban framework. The North West
central garden path axis connects to Oxley Hill and also points towards Mecca. The North
East central garden path axis connects to Fadden Pines.
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13. B a r r a c k ’ s F l a t P a r k 2 0 1 5
L a n d s c a p e D e s i g n C o n c e p t
D e s i g n B r i e f & S i t e V i s i t
This project was organized through a personal contact within the
Queanbeyan Council. As part of the Council’s CBD Master Plan upgrade, I
was asked to design and prepare drawings (as per the Queanbeyan Parks
and Recreation Facilities Improvement tender) for proposed landscape works
within the Barrack’s Flat Park.
Through site visits and respective research, it was apparent that the project
area is used by a diverse group of community members; families, mums and
bubs, children, visitors, etc. This research contributed to, however, did not
solely influence the landscape design outcome.
Tthe Queanbeyan Parks and Recreational Facilities Improvement document
outlined that the proposed concept must be a design that was suitable for
use by the Queanbeyan community and visitors to Queanbeyan; therefore
should take into consideration the following attributes:
• Community space for all.
• Family oriented.
• All ages access.
• All abilities access.
• Include boundaries; consider relationships to adjacent facilities.
The aims for this project, in correlation with Queanbeyan City Council’s
Concept Design Scope, included:
• Create a destination for families, children & community members.
• Create a visually interesting and functional space. One that stimulates,
encourages play opportunities for children of all ages and allows restful
spaces.
• Enhance the character, culture and sense of place.
• Social engagement for community groups, families & visitors to the park.
• Incorporate Barrack’s Flat history back into the park through historical
settings.
• Recognise the importance of the park and its contribution to the
community and surrounds.
• Design allowed for staged construction.
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SCALE: 1:500

14. B a r r a c k ’ s F l a t P a r k 2 0 1 5
S I T E V I S I T
S E C T I O N E L E V A T I O N
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15. B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
L a n d s c a p e D e s i g n C o n c e p t
D e s i g n B r i e f
Develop a staged landscape design response ranging in scale from
precinct to detailed landscape design, which allowed BAC to integrate
into an arts and cultural precinct.
The purpose of this project was to design an urban space that connected
the Centre to the surrounding landscape (including the foreshore) and
improve access and shared use through comfortable spaces and sense
of identity.
This design solution allowed people’s senses to be heightened, whilst
creating connectivity both within and around the Centre.
D e s i g n C o n c e p t
Introduce strong design lines that encouraged exploration, connectivity
and aesthetically pleasing elements which integrated Stage 2
development plans.
No clutter, just open planning where people can congregate, reflect or
pass through whilst experiencing functionality.
Paving styles and patterns delineate roads, pedestrian and bicycle
circulation and define formal gathering spaces. Pattern detail reflects the
architectural elements and cultural aspects of the Belconnen Arts Centre.
A mix of surface treatments and foreshore inclusiveness which allows
visitor’s to experience the water’s edge through extended platforms,
resulted in an interactive foreshore and relationship between BAC and the
surrounding precinct.
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16. B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
2 0 Y e a r P r e c i n c t C o n c e p t
1 . U n d e r g r o u n d P a r k i n g
Opportunity existed for underground parking due to infill proposal of
Stage 2.
Similar to parking arrangements at the National Gallery of Australia,
underground parking could provide a myriad of opportunities to improve
such areas of poor disability access, steep undulating surfaces and
safer access to the centre through underground access via lifts, etc.
Hard landscaping opportunities existed on top of this underground
structure.
Improved access paths open up the rear of the building with improved
accessibility via Eastern side of precinct.
2 . T r a f f i c C i r c u l a t i o n
Manage traffic flow in front of the Centre through implementation of
one way traffic from skateboard park intersection up to Benjamin Way
intersection.
Opens up opportunities for the Centre’s foyer/entrance area and
pedestrian safety.
3 . B e n j a m i n W a y
Reclaiming Benjamin Way from the Town Centre exist, allowed
expansion of the existing median strip. It also encouraged visual
linkages of BAC foreshore through attractive plantings within the
median strip and cultural/art displays.
4 . P o p U p M a r k e t
Reclaiming Emu Bank road structure (Beissel Street intersection)
allowed safer pedestrian access whilst also providing opportunities for
pop up markets and the like.
5 . C h i l d r e n ’ s P l a y g r o u n d
Installation of children’s playground or outdoor gym equipment
encouraged further interaction with the precinct and the BAC.
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17. B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
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18. B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
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19. B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
D o c u m e n t a t i o n P l a n s
M A T E R I A L S & F I N I S H E S
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20. B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
D o c u m e n t a t i o n P l a n s
M A T E R I A L S & F I N I S H E S
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21. B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
D o c u m e n t a t i o n P l a n s
S E T O U T P L A N
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22. B e l c o n n e n A r t s C e n t r e 2 0 1 5
D o c u m e n t a t i o n P l a n s
S E T O U T P L A N
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23. P a t t e r n s a n d U r b a n C h a r a c t e r
Barton has long been recognized as a prestigious office location, governed and
characterized by large buildings which are set in generous landscape settings
within the Parliamentary Triangle. Amendments to the Central National Area
(Barton) Plan is changing Barton’s pattern, introducing a broader range of
permitted uses, i.e. mixed use developments through apartments and commercial
buildings.
V a l u e S t a t e m e n t
Questions going forward included:
Will current and future planning change the STORY of Barton’s spatial character?
Projecting forward, can Barton cohesively interrelate with its surrounding areas in
order to form a TOTAL SYSTEMS approach?
B r i s b a n e A v e n u e – B A R T O N 2 0 1 4
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24. S Y M B O L I C - L I N K I N G – L I V I N G S P A C E
The landscape vision for Brisbane Avenue aims to capitalise on the site’s prominent location in order to create a high quality streetscape destination that will encourage community
interaction and strong connections with the people living and working in the precinct.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
SYMBOLIC SPACE - provide a uniqueness to the Barton precinct.
LINKING SPACE - provide an open space that physically joins and unites.
LIVING SPACE - provide a series of accessible gardens for multiple uses.
Through a series of landscape changes, Brisbane Avenue will evolve into a community landscape that will synergise and provide a sense of place, enriching people’s experience of Barton
and encouraging participation in the community. These landscape changes will be influenced via the Garden City theme through a series of gardens that provide a four season’s piece of
work that gets better with age.
A newly design streetscape will also contribute to the creation of a safe environment which could potentially link Bowen Place and surrounding areas; reinforcing the image, identity and
character of Barton. Design possibilities include changing the Avenue’s road structure allowing buildings adjacent to Darling Street with full, uninterrupted access to the gardens and
replacing the storm water drain with a natural waterway.
Social, cultural and physical engagement are possible by incorporating a systems thinking approach through adapting and transforming the area. This design is a reimaging of the system
through the transformation of Brisbane Avenue.
B r i s b a n e A v e n u e – B A R T O N 2 0 1 4
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25. B e a c h p o r t – S o u t h A u s t r a l i a
Landscape Architecture students (third year) from the University of Canberra (UC)
travelled to Beachport, South Australia to undertake a field study for the purpose of
gathering information to contribute to the development of an access master plan for the
town.
This study encompassed a range of cultural, community and environmental issues with
each student being assigned a particular theme to focus on in order to frame an
understanding of what did and did not need addressing. Each of these themes was
based on an overall idea of the ‘journey’. The theme allocated to my concept design was
Healing Journey.
Students were given the opportunity to interact with a range of community groups
including local residents, local and state government representatives from Beachport
and the surrounding areas.
Throughout the course of the week, information was compiled amongst the students to
develop a broad access master plan in conjunction with individual concept areas that lie
within the study area.
For further design and interview outcomes please refer to:
Sketchup Fly Through of Design
http://www.slideshare.net/KateOHara1/healing-journey
Access Master Plan Report
https://www.slideshare.net/secret/37AbVkh7bBau5U
A c c e s s M a s t e r P l a n & C o n c e p t D e s i g n 2 0 1 4
H e a l i n g J o u r n e y s
Located in the centre of Beachport, Centennial Park
comprises of six acres of parkland. A large lagoon
encompasses the area with a bridge, BBQ facilities,
playground and lawn area.
In collaboration with the Access Master Plan, it was
important to observe and communicate with the
community in order to understand the complexity of the
people and the environment. What are their values? Who
are the different community groups and organisations?
V i e w o v e r l o o k i n g B e a c h p o r t ’ s m a i n b e a c h
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26. A c c e s s M a s t e r P l a n & C o n c e p t D e s i g n 2 0 1 4
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27. B r i a n H e n n e s s y H o u s e 2 0 1 3
S c e n t e n a r y G a r d e n
C o n c e p t D e s i g n
Brian Hennessy House is a respite and care facility for
people experiencing schizophrenia who need support in
a rehabilitation setting.
This project was to design a landscape space that
connected the residences with the Hub, which is the
central meeting space for therapy, programs, social
activities and events.
The outcome of this design fed into the Canberra 100
project which was to be built with a budget of $70,000.
Each team was made of up 3 students who presented
group outcomes and model representations.
T h e B r i e f
• Physical activity spaces
• Sturdy
• Wishing well/Reflection site
• Communal space vs individual space
• Retain fig tree
• Food production (vegetables & herbs)
• Shade
• Scented flowers
• Artistic flexibility
• No hanging points
D e s i g n P r i n c i p l e s
• Organic edge
• Texture and form
• Contrasting colours
• Trickling water
• Senses
• Window views
• Sense of space and privacy
• Divisions = interest
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28. B r i a n H e n n e s s y H o u s e 2 0 1 3
A restorative environment allows the eye to focus
effortlessly on things that are inviting and fascinating.
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29. B r i a n H e n n e s s y H o u s e 2 0 1 3
P R E L I M I N A R Y D R A W I N G S
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30. B r i a n H e n n e s s y H o u s e 2 0 1 3
An environment becomes a landscape only when it is so regarded by
people and especially when they begin to shape it in accord with their taste and needs.
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31. Q u e a n b e y a n R i v e r C o r r i d o r 2 0 1 3
R i v e r W a l k
N o d e C o n c e p t D e s i g n
The Queanbeyan River is a water course of significant value. Its natural
features provide recreational opportunities as well as wildlife habitation
in a combined urban setting.
This project involved designing a physical landscape that supported
people using the Couch 25k (www.c25k.com) program.
In collaboration with local Council, a riverside walk concept design was
produced which integrated 3 design nodes along the riparian corridor.
The project involved research into the river system and sensitive
environmental factors. Site analysis, concept development, site design,
node design and details were all packaged together and presented to
university staff and Council representatives.
This project investigated urban environments that promote resilience,
biodiversity and ecological integrity. A common goal amongst all
parties involves was to create a built site and urban fabric that enabled
valued environmental processes to be resilient to changes over time.
This process encourages life forms to become resilient, increase
biodiversity and improve the health of both human and non-human
communities.
This ecological design promotes cyclical rather than linear flows of
energy and seeks to maximize environmental integrity whilst also
connecting people with nature in ways that reveal processes and
promote stewardship.
This project had the capacity to demonstrate sensitivity to social,
cultural and physical contexts, by focusing on improved accessibility
and community linkages.
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32. Q u e a n b e y a n R i v e r C o r r i d o r 2 0 1 3
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