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Kannapolis Today
By the People, for the People
Landscape Designer Calls for Higher Standards and Continuing Education
Mark Selles advocates for greater discipline, certification, and character-driven leadership in the landscaping industry.
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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Award-winning landscape designer Mark Selles of Kannapolis, North Carolina is speaking out about the need for stronger professional standards, continuing education, and long-term thinking in the landscape design industry. As the industry generates over $150 billion annually and employs over one million people, Selles believes rapid growth and trend-driven demand can sometimes lead to rushed work, inconsistent training, and short-term design thinking.
Why it matters
Selles believes the solution starts with discipline, as well-designed landscapes can improve property usability, reduce erosion, support biodiversity, and lower maintenance challenges over time. Industry research shows certified professionals are more likely to follow safety standards, use sustainable design practices, and deliver long-term project performance.
The details
Selles, the Executive Director and Senior Landscape Designer at DeSignia Inc., is encouraging professionals and homeowners to take an active role in raising expectations. For industry professionals, he suggests pursuing continuing education, remaining open to mentorship, and regularly reviewing design practices to ensure they are grounded in structure rather than fashion. For homeowners, he encourages asking thoughtful questions about training, certification, and how a design will function long-term.
- Selles has decades of experience in the landscaping industry.
The players
Mark Selles
An award-winning landscape designer and Executive Director and Senior Landscape Designer at DeSignia Inc. in Kannapolis, North Carolina, known for his disciplined approach to high-end landscape design.
DeSignia Inc.
A landscape design firm where Mark Selles serves as Executive Director and Senior Landscape Designer.
What they’re saying
“Trends come and go, but a well-designed landscape that blends style with practical use will always hold its value.”
— Mark Selles, Landscape Designer
“Often in my career, issues arose from lack of experience. Those issues created opportunity to learn and develop strategies for success the next time.”
— Mark Selles, Landscape Designer
“You must stay open to learning. Being too arrogant to be receptive to new ideas is one of the biggest risks in any profession.”
— Mark Selles, Landscape Designer
What’s next
Selles is encouraging landscape design professionals to pursue continuing education, remain open to mentorship, and regularly review their design practices to ensure they are grounded in structure rather than fashion.
The takeaway
This story highlights the importance of discipline, certification, and character-driven leadership in the landscaping industry, as well-designed landscapes can provide long-term benefits to property owners and the environment.
