Manhattan Beach Dune Restoration

Manhattan Beach's coastal dunes face persistent pressure from erosion and human activity, requiring thoughtful ecological intervention to rebuild habitat and natural resilience. This 2020 public project focused on restoring dune systems, working with the site's maritime climate and existing vegetation patterns to reestablish the ecological structure these dynamic edges demand. Marie Salembier approached the work by understanding dune succession and native plant communities adapted to sand, salt spray, and shifting substrates—species that could anchor soil, trap windblown sand, and create layered habitat for coastal wildlife. Rather than imposing ornamental solutions, Salembier applied ecological intelligence to guide the site toward self-sustaining vegetation patterns, where plants work together as nature intended. For public dune restoration, Salembier designs with deep knowledge of coastal plant ecology and succession, creating landscapes that restore function and beauty while teaching visitors about the living systems that protect our shorelines.