Michael was educated at Salisbury State University in Salisbury, Maryland, where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Geography and Regional Planning. His enthusiasm for landscape architecture was cultivated while serving as curator of plants records for the universities campus arboretum. This burgeoning interest in landscape design led him to seek a Masters’ Degree in Landscape Architecture, which he received from California State Polytechnic University in Pomona. As a professor at the University of Southern California, Michael’s passion for Southern California landscapes and blurring the boundary between architecture and landscape was galvanized.

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McGowan joined KAA in 2011, overseeing the design and implementation of a broad range of custom residential, commercial and institutional landscapes. In addition to his design work on numerous estate residential landscapes, some of Michael’s notable projects include: The Eastern Columbia Building, TreePeople Center for Community Forestry, Santa Monica Village, One Santa Fe and Hollywood Park.

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Michael maintains a strong and meaningful connection with the USC School of Architecture, where he actively contributes to the academic and professional growth of its students. Through his mentorship efforts, he offers valuable guidance to aspiring architects and landscape architects, sharing insights from his extensive professional experience and helping them navigate the complexities of architectural design and the industry. He frequently participates in jury panels, providing constructive feedback and fostering a critical dialogue about students’ design work. Beyond these formal engagements, Michael often shares real-world examples and lessons learned from his career, bridging the gap between academic concepts and practical applications. His dedication to mentorship not only supports the next generation of designers but also strengthens the broader design community by inspiring innovation and professional excellence.

He is inspired by the practical beauty, precision, and meticulous attention to detail characteristic of Japanese woodblock printing, drawing from its harmonious balance between form and function. He is equally captivated by the dynamic energy and experimental nature of contemporary street art, which embraces bold colors and unconventional techniques. Michael is an avid artist who expresses his creativity through various mediums, often involving the transformation of used or found materials into innovative and meaningful new forms. In addition to his hands-on work, he has embraced digital sketching as a versatile and powerful tool for exploring ideas, refining concepts, and integrating traditional artistic influences with leading-edge design possibilities. His artistic endeavors reflect a unique blend of tradition and modernity, underscoring his commitment to pushing creative boundaries while honoring timeless craftsmanship.

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Michael is a highly dedicated lacrosse player who regularly demonstrates his passion for the sport both on and off the field. He frequently participates in prestigious national tournaments, where he competes against some of the top talent in the country, showcasing his athleticism, strategic thinking, and teamwork. In addition to these high-profile events, Michael remains deeply rooted in the lacrosse community of Southern California. He plays in several local leagues, using these opportunities to refine his skill, mentor younger players and strengthen the sport’s presence in the region.