Transforming spaces, enriching lives through landscape architecture

If you’ve strolled along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, biked the Monon Boulevard in Carmel or wandered through Purdue’s Centennial Mall, you’ve experienced environments brought to life by Carl Kincaid, an alumnus of Purdue University’s Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture.

As a partner at Rundell Ernstberger Associates, Kincaid has spent more than 25 years transforming public spaces across Indiana and beyond. His work isn’t just about design — it’s about building vibrant communities, enhancing daily life and leaving a legacy that will shape the way people connect for generations to come.

“That ability to create spaces that people use and enjoy every day is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. These projects have transformed the way people experience their communities by creating accessible public spaces that encourage walking, biking, gathering and connecting,” Kincaid said. “Knowing that these places continue to enhance quality of life for residents and visitors alike is incredibly rewarding and represents the type of lasting impact I strive to make through my work.”

Discovering his path in landscape architecture

“I discovered landscape architecture in a high school horticulture class taught by Mel Vance. Mr. Vance introduced us to the field, and it was the first time I’d even heard the term. The mix of ecology, design and problem-solving immediately clicked for me,” Kincaid said.

When he began looking for programs in this field of study, Purdue’s College of Agriculture stood out for its strong reputation in environmental systems, hands-on studio culture and the chance to work across disciplines.

“I wanted a place where I could learn plant science and design rigor side by side, and Purdue offered that balance. That early spark from Mr. Vance, combined with Purdue’s applied, collaborative approach, made the choice feel natural,” he said.

Hands-on experiences were key to his growth

“Through the co-op program, I completed a 15-month internship with a company that ultimately hired me before I even finished my senior year,” Kincaid said. “That experience gave me a seamless transition from college to my professional career. The co-op program is a major reason why Purdue has consistently maintained such a strong job placement rate for its landscape architecture graduates.”

Kincaid also discovered hands-on learning opportunities through his involvement with Purdue American Society of Landscape Architects (PASLA) and by working with peers from diverse backgrounds. These experiences honed his design skills and taught him the importance of collaboration.

The co-op program developed by Don Molnar, professor emeritus and head of the department at the time, was instrumental in setting a strong foundation for Kincaid’s career. “The co-op program has been incredibly successful in preparing students for real-world practice and has helped thousands of graduates launch their careers,” Kincaid said. 

Kincaid was hired by Rundell Ernstberger Associates, the company where he interned, after graduation in 2000. He became a partner in 2007 and remains with the firm to this day.

“Looking back, accepting that opportunity was a defining moment in my career. It has allowed me to grow professionally, take on leadership responsibilities and contribute to projects that have had a lasting impact on the communities we serve,” Kincaid said.

What makes a successful landscape architect?

“To be successful in landscape architecture, you need a combination of creativity, technical knowledge and strong interpersonal skills. Design is certainly at the core of the profession, but equally important is the ability to solve complex problems, think critically and balance the needs of clients, communities, budgets and the environment,” he said.

Kincaid said the profession is evolving as new technologies, materials and sustainable design practices emerge.

Championing new voices in landscape architecture

Kincaid has given back to students by chairing the landscape architecture program’s professional advisory council for the past 20 years. The council focuses on ensuring that the program remains strong for students and current with technology and industry demands.  

“The professional advisory council has helped do things like bring new software to the program,” he said. “We continually evaluate skills needed from an industry perspective that students need when we seek to hire them and how to make our students marketable. Our team has been focused on getting the word out about careers in landscape architecture and ensuring that Purdue’s program remains a leader.”

Kincaid’s recent Purdue projects include the revitalization of Centennial Mall and a green space that will be at the new Mitch Daniels School of Business building.

“Purdue has been a big part of my story and my success in this industry. To have many of my projects be right at home at Purdue for future generations to enjoy, including my own kids and maybe someday for my grandkids, has been a highlight,” he said. “To have the opportunity to give back to students learning in the same classrooms where I sat has been a full circle moment.”