marine discovery center

---

 The Marine Discovery Center engaged Dix.Hite to develop a comprehensive master site plan for a 22-acre campus on the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America. This plan, emphasizing a "hands-on, feet-wet" approach, which aims to offer numerous opportunities for locals and visitors of all ages to engage with the beauty and diversity of this precious natural resource. 

Dix.Hite initiated the project with a two-day visioning workshop in New Smyrna Beach, collaborating with the Marine Discovery Center, the Artist’s Workshop of New Smyrna Beach, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The resulting workshop summary and Master Plan concept documents reflect a collective effort to integrate green infrastructure, functional facilities, and creative landscapes. The design prioritizes eco-education, artistic expression, and social engagement, fostering a deeper appreciation for the ecological stewardship of the Indian River Lagoon and ensuring its preservation for future generations.

 AIA Orlando 2024 Honor Award 

Design Team: Greg Bryla, Scott Toschlog, Hailey Holder, and Lendell Ervin

Learn more at: https://marinediscoverycenter.org/

Rye Ranch is a 1,500-acre master-planned community in Manatee County, Florida, currently under construction. Once defined by open pastures, dense forest edges, and scattered agricultural artifacts, the site’s rural character serves as the foundation for a contemporary community deeply rooted in place. Drawing inspiration from this agricultural legacy, the landscape design emphasizes natural systems, traditional materials, and a lifestyle that echoes 

“life on the farm.”

Dix.Hite was engaged to lead the visioning process and provide full landscape architectural services from early character studies and workshop facilitation to construction documentation. The design framework weaves together a connected trail system that integrates with the broader Manatee County network, layered ecological landscapes, and a range of thoughtfully programmed public spaces. Key components include a welcome center, regional and neighborhood parks, preserved natural corridors, and a town center commercial district designed to foster social connection, environmental resilience, and a cohesive community identity.

Design Team: David Hoppes, Scott Toschlog, Jason Holden, Kiley Aguar, Rachel Taylor and Lendell Ervin

Learn more at: https://ryeranch.com/

 Addison Square is a luxury multi-family residential development located in Viera, Florida. Dix.Hite + Partners provided comprehensive landscape architectural services, from early visioning through construction documentation. Our team collaborated closely with the client to craft a distinct identity for the community shaping everything from the arrival experience to the central pool amenity and overall planting strategy. The result is a cohesive, high-quality landscape that sets Addison Square apart and enhances the resident experience. 

Design Team: Greg Bryla, Jamie Write, Jason Holden, and Lendell Ervin.

Learn more at: https://www.addisonsquare.com/