- 509 // 842 // 0076
- CONTACT@BLENDOUTDOOR.COM
- SPOKANE VALLEY, WA
Our Team
co-owner
Chris Sothen
After graduating from Washington State University in 2012 with a degree in Landscape Architecture, Chris worked locally for multiple well-respected companies learning the industry and craft. Over the decade-plus in the industry, Chris has taken the lessons and skills gained over those years to help create a fresh take on landscaping in our region by starting Blend Outdoor Design with Collin. This business allows the creative juices to flow while ensuring he can help oversee all the small details that he believes Blend customers have come to expect from our projects. It’s important to sneak some off time into the schedule so he and his wife, Lauren, like to sprinkle as much travel in as possible. See you in Montana!
co-owner
Collin Schweikl
A love for creative problem solving, a passion for the outdoors and a strong desire to learn has provided Collin the opportunity to tackle a high level of responsibility early in his career. This rapid progression honed his craft and his work ethic; preparing him for his current role at Blend Outdoor Design.
After graduating from Washington State University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture he was hired at a Spokane Design-Build firm beginning as a Landscape Designer and progressing to Design Manager. He joined the Blend Outdoor Design family as a Partner and Designer at the beginning of 2020 to continue to develop as a professional and assist in growing Blend after its first successful year!
On weekends at home Collin will be working on a house project or manning the barbeque. When he gets a chance, he runs for the hills to go camping, backpacking, or fishing with his girlfriend Kelli and their yellow lab Charlie. And, he’ll never miss a Cougar football Saturday.
Design Manager
Christine Stierwalt
After graduating with a Horticulture degree in 2010 from Okanogan College, Christine started her own landscape design firm and operated it until her move back to North Idaho in 2015.
A life-long artist and creative person, being a landscape designer is the perfect career, as she sees every design as a practical piece of art and loves seeing drawings become a beautiful livable space. After running a design business on her own, she enjoys being part of a fun and innovative team.
Christine grew up in eastern Washington but lived in Canada for most of her adult life. An avid gardener, she is currently turning her own backyard into an edible landscape and loves learning about the edible and medicinal benefits of plants. In her spare time, you will find her gardening, hiking, spending time at the cabin, and visiting her kids.
