Photo by Norm Plate A medallion of black beach pebbles is integrated into the pool’s deck. In the background, a metal trellis supports fast-growing Indian rosewood trees planted to screen a neighboring structure.

Although the landscape architect often can be found with his nose to the drawing board in his central Phoenix office, his life is not all about work. For the past 15 years, Dollin has played drums with a group of guys—mostly engineers and an accountant—called The Salt Rhythm Band. And while they mostly play for their own enjoyment, they also take on the occasional fundraiser. “Making music is a way to be creative without the client,” he jokes.

But joking aside, for this Master of the Southwest it is always about the client and coming up with creative design solutions that will stand the test of time.