Dix.Hite Expands Services with Launch of Planning and Urban Design Studio
Dix.Hite is proud to announce the expansion of our services with the launch of a dedicated planning practice, led by two powerhouse planners, Heather Isaacs and Katy Magruder. For almost three decades, our team has contributed to shaping many of Central Florida’s most transformative communities through thoughtful landscape architecture. Now, with the addition of seasoned planning expertise, we are expanding our ability to guide projects from vision through implementation with a more holistic approach.
As Senior Principal, Planning, Heather Isaacs brings 25 years of experience in strategic land planning, entitlements, and development. She has led key projects across Central Florida, delivering over 10,000 residential lots and shaping vibrant mixed-use communities such as Lake Nona through public-private partnerships with the local governments and key stakeholders like USTA, Orlando VA Medical Center, and Nemours Children’s Hospital, creating economic growth throughout the Central Florida region.
Senior Planner, Katy Magruder, adds over a decade of experience in comprehensive planning, form-based codes, and urban design. Her notable work includes co-authoring Orange County’s Orange Code, removing barriers to multifamily development and missing middle housing types in Orlando, and serving as the lead staff planner for the Packing District, all requiring high levels of public engagement while managing consultants, stakeholders, and government partners.
Together, Heather and Katy bring a depth of knowledge in long-range planning, Florida planning law, and public engagement - equipping our firm to address the complexities of today’s rapidly growing communities. Their expertise allows us to pair creative placemaking with strategic, attainable solutions, ensuring that the neighborhoods, town centers, and districts we help shape foster long-term value for citizens, businesses, and visitors alike.
By integrating planning and design under one collaborative process, Dix.Hite is uniquely positioned to help our clients navigate the evolving legal and regulatory environment while delivering meaningful places that stand the test of time.
