Rhodeside & Harwell

Over the past 40 years, RHI has had the privilege of working on projects that have shaped communities, institutions, public spaces, and cultural landscapes.

This year, we’ll be highlighting a selection of signature projects that reflect the range, purpose, and impact of our work.

Each one tells part of the story. Together, they reflect what 40 years of practice can build.

Slide 1: National Aquarium in Baltimore
Slide 2: National Arboretum Japanese Pavilion
Slide 3: University of Virginia West Lawn

The evening was a meaningful reminder of the lasting impact thoughtful leadership, mentorship, and design excellence can have on our profession and our communities. Elliot’s candid conversation and heartfelt remarks resonated deeply with everyone in the room, reflecting not only on a distinguished body of work, but also on the values, relationships, and sense of purpose that shape a meaningful career.

We left the evening feeling inspired, proud to be part of this profession, and grateful for the opportunity to celebrate such an influential voice in landscape architecture.

Congratulations again to Elliot on this well-deserved recognition.

Thank you to the Potomac ASLAcasla for hosting such a wonderful evening.

Every firm has a beginning. Ours started with a business plan, a lot of determination, and a willingness to do whatever it took to get the work done.
The early years meant working by hand, making cold calls, building relationships, and proving ourselves project by project. It was demanding, uncertain, and full of belief.
Forty years later, we’re proud of what grew from those first steps.

This World Landscape Architecture Month, we’re spotlighting Sustainable Brentwood in Prince George's County, Maryland—a climate action plan centered on resilience, sustainability, and environmental justice.

Working with Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, the Town of Brentwood, and Nitsch Engineering, RHI is helping shape strategies to address flooding, stormwater challenges, and climate impacts while engaging residents through bilingual outreach and community events.

Designing stronger communities starts with listening, planning, and building for the future.

One phrase appears again and again in RHI’s story: a humanistic approach to design.

For our founders, that meant starting with how people actually live, move, gather, and experience a place. It also meant building client relationships rooted in trust, respect, and integrity.

That philosophy was there on day one. It is still here 40 years later.

We're Hiring!
See our website for more details.
https://rhiplaces.com/news/

Celebrating Women’s History Month and 20 years at RHI

Associate Principal Megan Mansell recently celebrated 20 years with RHI. Her path to RHI wasn’t exactly traditional—she grew up on a small farm in Western Maryland, studied Studio Art with a focus in Graphic Design, and joined the firm as an administrative assistant. What started as a temporary position turned into a career helping RHI pursue and win projects across the country.

In 2023, Megan was named an Associate Principal, recognizing two decades of dedication and leadership.

When she’s not working on proposals, Megan enjoys cooking, thrifting, and tackling home décor and renovation projects.

Congratulations, Megan, and thank you for 20 years at RHI.

Had a great time visiting the Wakefield High School STEM Club in Arlington, VA to introduce students to the field of Landscape Architecture!

RHI's associate landscape architect Jake led the discussion, sharing insights into what LA is all about and guiding students through two fun site sketch exercises.

A big thank you to ASLA for providing such valuable educational resources to help make this experience possible.

There were snacks, creativity, and lots of great energy in the room. Hopefully we sparked some inspiration for students to explore Landscape Architecture in the future!

Congratulations to Elliot Rhodeside, FASLA, RHI co-founder, on receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Potomac Chapter of ASLA!

This honor recognizes Elliot’s decades of leadership, vision, and lasting contributions to landscape architecture and to the communities shaped by his work. His commitment to design excellence and mentorship has made a profound impact on the profession and the region.

Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved recognition!

This Valentine’s Day, RHI is living its motto — Shaping Spaces & Sharing Love™.

We’re bringing back our cleverly crafted (and slightly flirtatious) Valentine cards that celebrate our love for nature, community, and placemaking.

From planting puns to master plan matchmaking, these cards are rooted in our passion for great design and growing meaningful connections. Whether it’s vibrant public spaces or thriving ecosystems, we believe the best projects and the best relationships are thoughtfully cultivated.

Swipe to get swooned by your favorite quote from our landscape and urban planning nerds, and let us know which one has you in full bloom.