2011 MASTER PLAN
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT AND BOARD CHAIRMAN
September, 2011 Gardens are dynamic and ever-changing. In the short term, the seasons with their cyclic nature are predictable and carry a certain reoccurring expectation; the camellia bloom peaks and fades to return again each year. But in the long term, change is linear; trees grow ever bigger casting more shade, shrubs get overgrown and decline. This change can be subtle and hard to predict as the garden evolves over time. The garden needs replanting and rethinking as it evolves. For a public garden long term change not only occurs in the landscape, but also in the programming and how visitors interact and interpret the garden. Every so often it is important in a public garden such as ours to step back and circle around to review where we started, evaluate where we are now, and decide where we want to go. In this way the garden is kept fresh and relevant. Besides the physical nature of the garden it is important to financially sustain a garden’s operation. Here at Bok Tower Gardens we undertook a master planning process in the spring of 2011 to address how best we can move forward to maintain a vibrant garden while ensuring long-term financial sustainability. This Master Plan is an outgrowth of the Long Range Fundamental Plan adopted by the Bok Tower Gardens Board of Directors in the fall of 2010. This plan is the physical representation of the vision we have for the Gardens over the next twenty or more years. The plan addresses issues of visitor accessibility, circulation, interpretation and wayfinding. The plan also outlines ideas for increasing attendance by broadening our visitor base, revitalizing core areas of the historical garden and the tower, and positioning Bok Tower Gardens as a world-class garden. The ultimate goal of this plan is to maintain Edward Bok’s legacy of the Gardens as a gift to the American public. We are indebted to planning consultants Tres Fromme of Studio Outside and David Sacks RLA for the work and creativity they have brought to this process. We are also indebted to more than 30 participants in this process including sta, volunteers, Garden members, community leaders, Board members, and educators. This is a twenty-year plan and it will not be accomplished all at once. As in any long journey it is important to have a good map.
William Burns, Board Chairman
David Price, President
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 2
Letter from the President and Board Chairman Bok Tower Gardens Mission and Vision Relationship with Long-Range Fundamental Plan Executive Summary
1 4 6 8
CHAPTER 1: OVERARCHING GUIDING CONCEPTS Approach to Living History and Heritage Identity Areas Views and Vistas Circulation System
14 16 17 18
CHAPTER 2: THE PLANNING VISION Introduction Specific Site Areas Arrival Sequence Visitor Center Area Florida Gardens Children’s Garden Pine Ridge Preserve Olmstedian Core Gardens Pinewood Education & Event Center Horticulture Service Area Preserve & Open Space
22 22 23 25 27 27 28 30 32 33 33
APPENDIX Realizing the Master Plan Reference Documents
36 37
Master Planning Participants
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LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS The Master Plan The Master Plan (Tree Canopy Not Shown) Identity Areas Views & Vistas Circulation Shuttle Routes Entry Road and Landscape Entry Road Conceptual Sections Visitor Center Area Florida Gardens, Children’s Garden & Pine Ridge Preserve Northern Extent View to North Glade, Florida Gardens & Children’s Garden Olmstedian Core Gardens Southern Extent Pinewood & Olmstedian Core Gardens Northern Extent Education & Event Center & Relocated Gate House Project Clusters
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BOK TOWER GARDENS MISSION AND VISION 4
Bok Tower Gardens grounded the planning process in several key statements embodying the organization’s ethos and values. These affirmations of who the organization is and what it believes provided the filter for all ideas emerging during the exploration of the Gardens’ future. The 2011 Master Plan is a guide for fulfilling and realizing the Gardens’ Mission, Values, and Vision.
Mission Statement To share Edward Bok’s gift of a beautiful and serene garden with music, architecture, and nature, so that all who visit will be inspired by his vision: “Make you the world a bit better or more beautiful because you have lived in it.”
Core Institutional Values •
Excellence and integrity in all we do.
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Fairness, respect, and dignity for all.
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Respect for Bok’s legacy and vision.
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Wise use of resources.
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Respect for beauty and the environment.
Vision To offer visitors a unique experience in a world-class garden where one can find beauty, peace, and inspiration.
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RELATIONSHIP WITH LONG RANGE FUNDAMENTAL PLAN 6
The 2011 Master Plan is a flexible framework for giving living form to the Goals and Action Strategies set forth in the Gardens’ Long Range Fundamental Plan 2011-2015 developed in May of 2010. The Master Plan is an essential complement to, augmentation of and companion to the Fundamental Plan; the two are inextricably linked and ideally inform each other. Participants referred to the Fundamental Plan throughout the master planning process to evaluate, prioritize and develop possibilities aligned with the essential identity and purpose of the organization. Ideally, the two documents will develop a dynamic relationship, evolving simultaneously to future contexts and situations the Gardens encounters. The 2011 Master Plan is also seeks to embody the aspirations described in the Education and Interpretation Strategic Framework 2011-2015 and its mission of “connecting and engaging learners of all ages in quality programming that creates appreciation, knowledge and awareness of the environment, art, history, and culture.�
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 8
Introduction The 2011 Master Plan enhances the existing strengths of Bok Tower Gardens, its heritage, plantings, landscapes, ecosystems, and facilities. The Plan provides an affirmative and flexible framework. It envisions a vibrant, relevant future continuing Mr. Bok’s desire to leave the American people with a sanctuary for beauty, art, and nature. The Plan also stays true and builds upon Olmsted’s design and artful relationship with this unique Floridian landscape. Projects fall into three categories: 1. Revitalizing the Gardens Core; 2. Telling the Gardens Story; and 3. Stewarding the Gardens Future. The Gardens will, in short, carefully innovate within its tradition of beauty, tranquility, excellence, and sanctuary.
Revitalizing the Gardens Core Preserving the Garden’s heritage as a National Historic Landmark and keeping the landscape healthy and thriving is essential to the central mission. The Olmstedian Core Gardens themselves - while continuing to delight, inspire and educate visitors – require enhancements and renovations to maintain their splendor. Staff, board, and volunteers continually balance maintaining the integrity of the historic landscape with meeting the needs and expectations of contemporary visitors. The Plan recommends investment to enrich and diversify plantings, rejuvenate garden rooms and spaces, augment important vistas and continue sustainable and environmentally-friendly gardening practices. Other important directions include enhancing visitor circulation, wayfinding and comfort, while improving staff service access and support facilities. Doing so involves upgrading paving materials and augmenting pavement along the primary routes through the grounds, thus improving accessibility for older visitors and young families with strollers. Renovating the Tower to maintain this national treasure is essential to the future, particularly investing in completion of the final phase of tile grille restoration.
Telling the Gardens Story Bok Tower Gardens is a unique place with a vibrant sense of place and timelessness. Sharing the history that has shaped the Gardens helps people to understand fully Mr. Bok’s legacy and his wish to inspire others “to make the world a bit better or more beautiful.” The Gardens intends to invest in projects to develop fresh interpretation throughout the grounds, but specifically in the Visitor Center exhibits, Pine Ridge Preserve, and Pinewood Estate. The Plan proposes the Florida Gardens to bridge the Olmstedian Core Gardens and Pine Ridge Preserve. The Florida Gardens illuminates what makes this part of the country unique: its cultural heritage, native ecosystems, flora and fauna. Compelling naturalistic designs will feature native wildflowers and other lesser-known riches of the central Florida landscape to engage, delight, and educate visitors. Plantings will showcase rare and endangered plants as well as attract birds, butterflies and other pollinators. New paths will delineate a central lawn area, a perfect
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stage for celebrations and the performing arts, and draw visitors into the north garden. The Plan also outlines physical enhancements to integrate the Pinewood Estate and gardens fully into the Gardens story.
Stewarding the Gardens Future Mr. Bok created the Gardens as a place for people to find renewal and delight for decades to come. This was perhaps the greatest of his many acts of philanthropy, throughout his lifetime, that focused on education and societal progress. Maintaining relevance and appeal among current and future generations of visitors is essential to the Gardens’ long-term vitality and sustainability, and the continued fulfillment of its original vision. Several of the Plan’s projects have the potential to create new and lasting positive impacts, relevance and broader appeal to garden visitors. A new Children’s Garden north of the Visitor Center is a site for naturalistic play and discovery for people of all ages, but particularly youngsters. Exuberant plants, butterflies, birds, wildlife, water features and outdoor learning spaces celebrate nature and the importance of plants to man and animals. Musical and art elements further enliven the garden, reflecting Mr. Bok’s legacy. This garden will seamlessly integrate the message and themes of Bok Tower Gardens with the latest trends in children’s garden design. An Education & Event Center on the site of the current Olmsted House maximizes potential for drawing new audiences and generating earned income. The Center allows the Gardens to meet demand for larger rental venues while offering a mid-sized outdoor performance space for ticketed concerts. Facilities include flexible-use indoor/outdoor space, an al fresco amphitheater and stage, and amenities capable of serving large events on the Concert Lawn. Investments to the exterior of the Visitor Center and along pathways will offer visitors greater access to all the Gardens offers, a clearer arrival experience, a larger picnic space, and expansion potential for the existing Plant Shop.
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Pine Ridge Preserve Northern Extent
Bog Garden Glade Garden Window By The Pond
Scrub Oak Forest Garden
Florida Gardens
Ornamental Native Plant Garden
Heritage Garden
Endangered Plant Garden
Children’s Garden Restroom
Vegetable Garden
Promenade Picnic Grove North Glade Back Garden and Lawn
Pinewood
Entry Garden
Northern Core Olmstedian Gardens
Pine Ridge Preserve Southern Extent School Picnic Area
Visitor Center
Visitor Parking Lot East Glade Event Tent Front Garden
Proposed Gate House
Core Olmstedian Gardens
Horticultural Meadow
Pine Ridge Preserve Enhanced South Glade
Exedra
Hiking Trail
Education & Event Center Event Lawn
Reflecting Pool
Storage Building
Stage Lower Pavilion
Reconfigured Service Road
Upper Pavilion The Tower
Horticulture and Service The Knoll
Pesticide Storage Building
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Bok Tower Gardens 2011 Master Plan - canopy trees not shown
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studioOutside
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Chapter 1: Overarching Guiding Concepts
APPROACH TO LIVING HISTORY AND HERITAGE Bok Tower Gardens is designated a National Historic Landmark because of the impact of Edward W. Bok on our nation’s cultural and social development, and because of the significance of the Gardens and Tower as a physical legacy of his ideals of beauty and peace and his gratitude to the country that enabled his remarkable life. The Core Gardens’ design, by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., is a masterwork of one of America’s most important landscape architects, and said to be one of his most intact public landscapes. The Tower, designed by architect Milton Medary, is an inspired example of Neo-Gothic and Art Deco styling and exquisite craftsmanship. Bok wrote that the Gardens’ purpose was to serve as “a place of quiet and repose for the electrically-driven people of America,” and “solely and singly to express the gospel of beauty: to open our eyes and awaken our senses to the beautiful.” He intended it to work its effect on visitors thorugh the combined influence of music, art, architecture, and nature - not entirely wild nature, but nature enhanced and stewarded - and offering visitors the beauty of flower and leaf, and the music of birdsongs. It was envisioned as a sanctuary for people as well as birds. Olmsted’s vision, similarly, was inspired by the natural landscapes of Florida, but was nevertheless an artistic vision, using native and non-native plants, carefully composed sequences of spatial choreography, and views of the surrounding natural and cultivated lands to create a landscape work of transcendent beauty. Native plants and water features would attract abundant bird life. Native and non-native plantings would provide striking beauty through contrasts of texture, plays of light and shade, variety of views and (especially at Bok’s urging) abundant color. And of course, the Tower would be showcased in a beautiful and powerful setting. As with any historically important designed landscape, it is critical that those who steward and manage the property are guided by knowledge and understanding of the ideas and principles of its creators, as well as of its historically significant characteristics and individual features, This enables the key qualities and features that “make” the landscape to be retained, even as gardens grow and adapt to meet contemporary needs and maintain relevance in a changing world. The Gardens’ board, staff and other stakeholders have consistently shown a strong respect and appreciation for the Gardens’ heritage as Bok Tower Gardens has matured and evolved, making the legacy of Bok and Olmsted a truly living history. The 2011 Master Plan has been developed with an understanding and respect for the concepts, signature landscape qualities and significant specific features that derive from this legacy, especially as related to the Olmstedian Core Gardens. Among these are: •
The oasis quality of the Core Gardens, including the unspoiled character of the surroundings;
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The emphasis on beauty and peacefulness as the primary purpose;
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The harmonious consistency and unity of the whole, yet with intriguing and dramatic variety and contrast within it; and
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The naturalistic ambience, wherein the gardens seem to “fit” the Florida landscape.
The Plan recognizes that the Gardens’ overall strategy to preservation of its landscape legacy is one of Rehabilitation, defined by the National Register as ““the act or process of making possible a compatible use for a property through repair, alterations and additions while preserving those portions or features that convey its historical, cultural or architectural values.”
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The Gardens archives contain extensive documentation of Bok Tower Gardens’ original design intent and of its original designers’ recommended strategies for addressing ongoing management, even as inevitable changes occur in the life of the landscape. A primary reference which should continue to be consulted is “The Mountain Lake Sanctuary: A Report,” written by William Lyman Phillips on behalf of the Olmsted Brothers firm in 1956.
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IDENTITY AREAS Identity Areas are zones of strongly related character, aesthetics, functions, purposes, visitor experience, interpretive themes, and history. Adjacencies and relationships among various Areas also help define their respective and distinctive sense of character. The Areas are a tool for understanding and communicating about the Gardens in its entirety (see Identity Areas diagram, opposite page). They guide future planning and design, particularly in terms of visitor wayfinding, interpretation, and project realization. The 2011 Master Plan delineates nine Identity Areas forming the skeleton of the site-wide framework, including: 1. Arrival Sequence and Visitor Center Area 2. Florida Gardens 3. Children’s Garden 4. Pine Ridge Preserve 5. Olmstedian Core Gardens 6. Pinewood 7. Education & Event Center 8. Horticulture and Service Area 9. Preserve and Open Space Views and vistas as well as circulation patterns link the Identity Areas into an integrated experience.
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VIEWS AND VISTAS The compelling power of the original Olmsted design relies on an artfully choreographed interplay of open and enclosed spaces related to dynamic plays of light and shade. Skillfully staged views are an essential component of the garden rooms, the relationships among them, and their relationships with the landscapes surrounding the Gardens. There are two types of views, internal and external (see Views and Vistas diagram, previous page). Internal Views occur within the Gardens and assist in leading visitors through the spaces by framing sightlines to iconic destinations and features. Indeed, views are an essential component of intuitive wayfinding and orientation, particularly since many terminate at the Tower. Internal views rely heavily on carefully layered relationships among: •
Foreground human-scale detail and intimacy;
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Mid-ground framing, including dense massing or light-infused openness; and
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Background depth, focal points, and views of the panoramic landscape and sky.
The Gardens is able to manage internal views with a great degree of accuracy since it completely controls the land. The basis of stewardship activities is maintaining and enhancing the power and function of these views. External Views take advantage of the surrounding landscape to extend the visitor’s experience of the Gardens in powerful ways. The property’s raised elevation offers the perfect stage from which to gaze upon broad prospects in the surrounding landscapes: the ordered grid of the citrus groves, the native landscapes, and the majestic sky. All these borrowed views are an important and intentional component of the original Olmsted design. External views rely heavily on relationships among: •
Foreground framing and positioning of the viewer, usually from a position offering some sense of enclosure;
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Depth of view into the distance; and
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Dramatic scale and pattern of landscape in the distance.
Views from the Entry Road to the Tower, rising above the hill and Live Oak canopy in the distance, are especially dramatic, cinematic views at the scale and motion/speed of an automobile. The Gardens has been working for over twenty years to preserve external vistas through land preservation, as well as land management programs of prescribed burning and weed tree removal. Land purchases by the Gardens and a grant from the Florida Communities Trust have achieved a patchwork of land preservation, via fee simple ownership and conservation easements. The Gardens manages, and is restoring to longleaf pine, the former citrus groves and other lands to which the local Green Horizon Land Trust holds title or easements. Much more work is needed to protect these vistas. Continuing the existing three-part strategy involves: •
Purchasing land within critical viewsheds when possible;
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Obtaining scenic conservation easements on land the Garden is unable to purchase outright; and
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Partnering with local and regional conservation groups to protect land within critical view-sheds. Doing so not only protects the Gardens’ historic landscape setting, but preserves open space for the entire community.
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PINE RIDGE PRESERVE TRAIL NORTHERN EXTENT
FLORIDA GARDENS OPEN SPACE
CHILDREN’S GARDEN NORTHERN CORE GARDENS
PINEWOOD PINE RIDGE PRESERVE SOUTHERN EXTENT VISITOR CENTER & ENTRY
OLMSTEDIAN CORE GARDENS
PRESERVE
PINE RIDGE PRESERVE EDUCATION & EVENT CENTER
HORTICULTURE & SERVICE ARRIVAL SEQUENCE
OPEN SPACE
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LEGEND View Within Gardens
View to Outside of Gardens
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CIRCULATION SYSTEM A major component of the 2011 Master Plan involves clarifying and enhancing pathways to assist visitors in finding their way through the grounds. The original Olmsted layout contains an abundance of intriguing sequences of diverse garden rooms, sunlit open glades and internal views. These are linked by a circulation network of pathways, that began as grassy walks and spaces between the gardens’ plantings, then evolved - as the gardens matured and grew shadier - into the current system of numerous mulch and asphalt paths. Current visitors often find these routes confusing and something of a challenge in terms of orienting themselves and locating their destinations. The 2011 Master Plan outlines a strategy for respecting the historic circulation patterns while simultaneously accommodating the way modern visitors navigate outdoor spaces (see Circulation diagram, opposite page).The approach includes: •
Retaining all paths and routes shown on the original Olmsted plans;
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Considering deletion of redundant or confusing non-historic paths;
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Adding new paths with alignments inspired by but distinct from the Olmsted designs to distinguish between historic and new;
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Paving selected historic routes either entirely or, where widths are extraordinarily generous, partially (to provide accessibility without excessive hardscape); and
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Creating well-defined “nodes” at major path intersections to assist in orienting visitors.
The 2011 Master Plan organizes visitor circulation into a series of nested and interconnected loops within the Identity Areas. Pathways have three levels of relative emphasis and support how visitors experience and navigate the gardens. Ideally, path widths, materials, and alignments provide intuitive cues on orientation and directionality. Primary Pedestrian Paths connect the Gardens’ major destinations, the Visitor Center, Tower, Pinewood, and proposed Florida Gardens. These are the widest walks (8’ to 12’) and are paved with all-weather, ADA-compliant (Americans with Disabilities Act) surfaces. A main path forms a central spine connecting the Visitor Center and Pinewood via a major node in the center of the Olmstedian Core Gardens where four primary paths intersect. The primary loops: •
Encircle the new North Glade and lead into the Florida Gardens; and
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Meander through the southern Olmstedian Core Gardens, drawing people to the Tower.
Secondary Pedestrian Paths invite visitors deeper into the grounds and encourage people to spend additional time developing a deeper knowledge of Bok Tower Garden. These routes reveal spaces and features a first time visitor might miss during a short visit. The width is generous (6’ to 8’), but distinctly narrower than the primary paths. Most, if not all, of the secondary routes are paved with an ADA-compliant surface clearly different in appearance than the primary routes. Major secondary loops: •
Wind through the Florida Gardens and Children’s Garden;
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Traverse Pine Ridge Preserve’s northern extent;
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Lead into and through the enhanced Southern Glade;
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LEGEND Vehicular Primary Secondary Tertiary Shuttle TurnAround Pedestrian Primary Secondary Tertiary Node/ Threshold
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LEGEND Shuttle Routes Main Loop Extended Loop Pinewood Loop
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Circumscribe the base of the Tower; and
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Trace the western edge of the Reflecting Pond and lead to Pinewood.
Tertiary Pedestrian Paths, the narrowest walks (3’ to 6’), encourage people to discover secluded features and parts of the grounds with exuberant but limited seasonal interest. Materials are permeable and pervious, and may include mulch. Most of these are not loops, with the exception of the route through of the original sanctuary in the northern part of the Olmstedian Core Gardens. Tertiary paths also include: •
The central spine of the Visitor Parking Lot;
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Paths in the proposed Visitor Center Picnic Grove;
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Paths to and through the future Pinewood Vegetable Garden;
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The meandering path along the edge of Pinewood’s open lawn; and
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The trails through southern Pine Ridge Preserve and along the Entry Road through preserve land.
Service Roads permit staff to access the interior grounds without causing conflicts with pedestrians. The main service roads: •
Trace the northern perimeter of the gardens and link the Visitor Parking Lot with Pinewood. It crosses well-defined pedestrian routes in two places;
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Permit staff to reach the existing Visitor Center service yard, the future North Glade and two maintenance entries into the future Children’s Garden; and
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Access the Horticulture and Service Area and the Rain Shelter east of the Tower.
Additionally, a reinforced-turf pathway allows construction and utility equipment to follow the perimeter of the South Lawn and reach the Tower’s west side via a starting point at the Horticulture and Service Area.
Shuttle Route The Gardens is considering several possible routes for the shuttle to follow within the grounds. Discussion during the planning process recommended that shuttles only serve visitors requiring mobility assistance and not offer an official tour of the grounds. This decision is strongly aligned with Bok’s and Olmsted’s creation of a calming, peaceful stroll garden. Keeping the route away from major pedestrian paths is critical to maintaining a tranquil atmosphere and maintaining visitor safety. The Gardens will determine the final route through on-site experimentation during different times of the year. Indeed, there is a possibility the route may change with patterns of visitation, events, and other factors. The 2011 Master Plan identifies three possible shuttle turn-around locations (see Shuttle Routes diagram, previous page).
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Chapter 2: The Planning Vision
INTRODUCTION The 2011 Master Plan builds on the existing strengths of Bok Tower Gardens including its heritage, landscape beauty, ecosystems, program strengths and existing facilities, while setting forth a framework and vision for expanding the Gardens’ contemporary relevance, broad visitor appeal and fiscal sustainability. The projects laid out in the Plan will help to: •
Revitalize the Gardens Core, bringing careful and appropriate enhancements to further enrich and better sustain its heritage landscape;
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Tell the Gardens Story, by expanding the site’s offerings with exciting new garden spaces that more fully convey the gardens’ message; and
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Steward the Gardens Future, by engaging new audiences, including children and young families, with new gardens and programs to inspire the next generations of Bok Tower Gardens visitors.
The projects and recommendations depicted in the following pages will, in short, revitalize and expand Bok Tower Gardens by carefully innovating within its traditions of beauty, tranquility, excellence and sanctuary.
SPECIFIC SITE AREAS ARRIVAL SEQUENCE Entry Road A patchwork of native ecosystem and geometric citrus groves has embraced Bok Tower Gardens since its inception. Part of the arrival sequence is the discovery of unfolding views to the Tower as it rises majestically from the trees in the distance. The contrast between agricultural order and the exuberant oasis spreading downhill from the Tower’s base is dramatic and unforgettable. The goal is to establish an engaging spatial choreography at the scale of the automobile while directing passengers’ gazes toward landscapes the Gardens controls and away from land the Gardens does not (see the Entry Road and Landscape Plan, opposite page). The current road alignment of straight segments connecting at diagonal angles was laid out by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. to make the best use of the topography and the views - distant views to the east horizon as well as views of Iron Mountain along the approach. The land use along the road was originally intended to be an expansion of Mountain Lake homes, citrus and pine forest. The road is important to preserve, if possible. Any newly designed/realigned road segments will follow and reinforce this precedent.
Land Ownership The land along the entry road is owned by seven different owners. Green Horizon Land Trust, the Mountain Lake Corporation, and Bok Tower Gardens have partnered to preserve approximately half of the abutting lands along the road way.
Landscape Treatment Restoration plantings of pine and native grasses have been done on Bok Tower Gardens and
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Additional Preserve Land or Groves Beyond
Buffer Continues Beyond
Pine / Palmetto / Wiregrass Buffer
Trail
Preserve
Entry Road
Mixed Shrub Buffers Native Evergreen Species
Live Oak Clusters
Development
Scenic Buffer (150’ Recommended Minimum Width)
Typical Section - Scenic Buffer
Additional Preserve Land or Groves Beyond
Wiregrass & Interspersed Forbs / Small Shrubs for Seasonal Interest & Habitat Value
Dense Pine Planting
Occasional Oak Trees or Tree Clusters
Open Glade With Scattered Pines
Distance Varies (10’ minimum)
Trail
Entry Road
Typical Section - Glade & Pineland Landscape Treatment
Entry Road Conceptual Sections
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Green Horizon Land Trust lands along the Entry Road, creating a sequence of pine forest and glades set within a patchwork of citrus groves. This patchwork was described by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. as a desirable effect he envisioned for this land. It is, to some degree, a naturalistic interpretation of the indigenous local landscape filtered through the Olmstedian garden aesthetic (see the Entry Road Conceptual Sections, previous page). Lands owned by Green Horizon Land Trust are obligated by the State of Florida to be restored to pine and native grasses. There is a hiking/ biking trail running from the gate house to the flag pole, with a picnic shelter and interpretive signs along the way. The 2011 Master Plan recommends building upon current strategies with the following design intent: •
Maintaining dense stands of pines in the background as a buffer and allowing their density to become increasingly dispersed close to the road;
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Strategically thinning pines in the mid ground to make openings that support long views from the Entry Road. Views are oriented diagonally from the road to achieve as much depth as possible;
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Encouraging native small shrubs and forbs within the wiregrass to add seasonal interest and wildlife habitat; and
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Leaving “scrim” stands of pines in the foreground to frame views into the distance and create areas of landscape-scale enclosure along the Entry Road.
Scenic Buffer Purchasing scenic easements on roadside property the Gardens does not own is a possible strategy for preserving the rural agricultural landscape setting essential to the character of the Entry Road. Easements 150’-200’ wide cost less than buying the properties and still allow the Gardens aesthetic control. The design intent for the buffer includes: •
Naturalistic plantings of drifts and clusters with irregular edges;
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Groupings of large native evergreen shrubs in the background;
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Groves of pines and oaks in the mid ground for height; and
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Drifts of native grasses and forbs in the foreground.
New Gatehouse The Gardens might consider relocating its ticketing point closer to the Visitor Parking Lot if future development on land adjacent to the existing Gatehouse detracts from the character of the Entry Road (see the Education & Event Center and Relocated Gate House Plan following page 32). A suggested new site is approximately 100’ north of the existing flagpoles. The proposed design includes the building, staff parking and a turn-around lane for people who decide not to visit. The architectural design relates to that of the Visitor Center. Landscape treatment around the Gatehouse is more intensive than along the majority of the Entry Road. Ornamental plantings of primarily native plants reflect a bit of the character of the Gardens to come, yet blend seamlessly with native landscape of the surrounding Preserve. This provides visitors a small preview of the rich and varied landscape they will soon discover within the grounds.
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VISITOR CENTER AREA Visitor Parking Lot Three recommendations improve the existing parking lot (see the Visitor Center Plan, opposite page). Additional lighting facilitates evening events. Paving delineates the walk through the central spine linking the Picnic Area and the Visitor Center. Diverse plantings form a living tapestry within the islands and showcase groundcovers suitable for Florida. An enhanced walk along the western edge connects the Visitor Center to the future Education and Event Center. Several arbors offer resting spots and places for visitors to wait for their rides. Plantings create the impression of a verdant garden promenade. A fence disguised within evergreen shrubs blocks access into the Southern Glade if the Gardens ever decides to move ticket sales into the Visitor Center. The Vegetation also blocks views of the parking from within the Southern Glade.
Enhanced Entry Garden Renovations to existing plantings open views toward the Visitor Center to assist people in locating the threshold to the building. Expanded beds showcase seasonal color and add a touch of horticultural drama to the arrival experience. This area currently requires replacing the deteriorating concrete paving. A paved terrace slightly raised above the road surface facilitates pedestrian movement. It also emphasizes the crossing into the Entry Garden and offers a drop off point for cars and buses.
Picnic Grove Visitors are currently enjoying the grassy glade adjacent to the gift shop for picnics and events. Enhancements include adding an ADA-accessible paved path from the Entry Garden into the Grove and around the lawn’s perimeter, and evergreen vegetation to enclose the southeastern perimeter and screen the Visitor Parking Lot. Carefully placed openings in the perimeter plantings allow glimpses into this inviting small garden.
Expanded Café Terrace A new paved area doubles the existing popular covered al fresco seating and rental venue. New plantings continue the ornamental permanent and seasonal plantings around the terraces. Both areas have exceptional views west across the new North Glade to the Heritage Gardens.
Main Promenade The current steep incline leading from the Visitor Center into the gardens is a challenge for a number of people. A 10’ - 12’ wide new walk leads from the Visitor Center north, then west, and finally south into the proposed Garden Hub in the Olmstedian Core Gardens (seethe Circulation diagram following page 18). By increasing the length of this path as it achieves the necessary rise in evation, ideally the slope will be under 5% to comply with ADA standards. Future topographic surveys and design studies are necessary to determine the feasibility. Exuberant plantings embrace the Promenade and immerse visitors in color, fragrance, and
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texture throughout the year. The displays also create a sense of direction leading people to the Olmstedian Core Gardens and the Florida Gardens.
North Glade Hub A stone and concrete circular terrace anchors the intersection of the Main Promenade and the path through the Heritage Garden. It is a place to orient visitors to the grounds and allow them a place to gather and pause. Plantings with strong display qualities and horticultural interest embrace the space.
Overlook Patio The existing stairs (at the southern end of the lawn parallel to the Visitor Center’s west façade) lead to a new paved terrace serving as a threshold into the enhanced Southern Glade and the future Education and Event Center.
FLORIDA GARDENS This area includes the current lawn northwest of the Visitor Center, the Endangered Plant Garden, the Window By The Pond, and the trail around the Pond. Collectively, they become a celebration of Floridian horticulture, heritage and ecosystems condensed into a relatively compact series of spaces that are beautiful, inspirational, and educational. (See the Florida Gardens, Children’s Garden and Pine Ridge Preserve Northen Extent Plan following page 26.) Sculpturally curving paths are the skeletal frameworks of four proposed gardens. These are obviously designed spaces set within the natural vegetation. Forms, patterns, and details celebrate the gentle artifice of design, the sensitive presence of the artistic hand. The overall goal is to engage visitors with beauty and inspire them to use the plants, particularly native ones, in their own gardens. The Florida Gardens link physically and programmatically with the environmental discovery message of the Children’s garden.
North Glade A central open space, the Glade echoes the original sun-dappled lawns of the Olmstedian Core Gardens. Scattered pines offer shade and reinforce spectacular views northeast to Pine Ridge Preserve and southwest to the Tower. A 10’ -12’ wide concrete path defines the Glade’s perimeter and connects to the Endangered Plant Garden. The Glade’s existing topography suggests a rudimentary amphitheater. Future grading enhances the form and creates an ideal outdoor venue for performances and festivals. The southern walk is an ideal location for a temporary stage, especially since there is service access through the South Glade.
Heritage Garden The Heritage Garden forms the background of views from the Visitor Center, particularly the Café terraces, and draws visitors into the grounds. Ornamental compositions of plants possessing long-standing associations with Florida cultural landscapes embrace the new North Glade’s western side. Curving paths lead visitors through the immersive displays. Plantings include
25
heirloom varieties, edible crops and native plants indigenous peoples used. The Heritage Garden is visually appealing throughout the year.
Enhanced Endangered Plant Garden Extensions of the four walks connect with proposed paths to the west, south, and east. They enlarge the area available for collecting and displaying additional collections material in a manner consistent with the existing design intent. A modest trellis provides shaded seating and is a focal point at the end of the northern path.
Window By The Pond and Wildlife Pond The Window is a much-loved destination and means of viewing wildlife. Future enhancements include planting additional screening vegetation to either side. The structure itself might benefit from cosmetic renovations. The Pond itself is in need of a new liner (possibly clay) and dredging. Renovations allow for other positive modifications including reshaping the overall form, adding planting ledges of various depths, and managing rampant vegetation. New plantings increase botanical diversity and attract wildlife, particularly birds and butterflies.
Glade Garden Sweeping paths lead visitors through native grasses and forbs. Plantings are rich in species having ornamental characteristics throughout the seasons. Species attract wildlife, particularly birds and butterflies.
Restroom Building A modest structure lies between the Glade and Bog Gardens and replaces the older brick restroom. It contains a unisex toilet facility, gardeners’ tool storage and a custodial closet. The design uses Florida vernacular aesthetics and materials. The Building also screens service parking off the service road behind it. A gate permits staff access from the service road into the Florida Gardens.
Bog Garden The main path passes through and over a constructed bog/wetland of native plants via a boardwalk. The bog’s elevation is higher than that of the Pond; pumps move the water against gravity. The vegetation cleanses and filters the water through biological activity. Large shrubs screen the path from the Pond so as to put wildlife at ease. Scrub Oak Forest Garden An artistic interpretation of this unique native ecosystem has the potential to surprise, intrigue and educate visitors. The small scale of the trees places people in an unusual relationship to the woodland, as if they are in a fairytale forest. Ornamental Native Plant Garden These new plantings showcase exceptionally attractive native plants in exceptionally designed combinations of trees, shrubs and perennials. The purpose is to demonstrate the plants’ aes-
26
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thetic qualities and inspire visitors to use the plants in their own gardens. Species attract wildlife, particularly birds and butterflies. A small gateway trellis permits access from the Children’s Garden for docent-led groups. Pinewood Road The road along the northern perimeter of the Florida Gardens supports maintenance traffic and visitors driving to events at Pinewood. Improvements include paving it as a one-lane route with pullouts at regular intervals.
CHILDREN’S GARDEN Creating a place for children to learn through play is important to reaching young families. This garden will celebrate nature and the importance of plants to man and animals; it will engage, educate, delight and inspire visitors of all ages, but particularly youngsters. Climbing, water play, exploring, building and socializing are all part of healthy child development. There will be a rich diversity of plants in the garden, including vegetables and fruits, fragrant plants, wildlife habitat plants and abundant flowers that will attract pollinators, butterflies and birds. Music will be incorporated into parts of the garden through sound instruments that respond to wind, rain or touch. The garden will be a place for fun education - as much a program as it is a landscaped, designed space. The Children’s Garden, Florida Gardens and Pine Ridge Preserve all form one related zone for environmental learning and exploration (see the Florida Gardens, Children’s Garden and Pine Ridge Preserve Northen Extent Plan, previous page).
Entry Trellis and North Entrance A vine-covered arbor and accent paving defines the entry to the future Children’s Garden along the northeastern segment of the path circumscribing the new North Glade lawn. The angle of the structure is visible from the south and guides visitors to their destination.
Restroom Building This structure echoes the architecture of the Visitor Center but in a simplified version. It contains men’s, women’s and “family” facilities as well as storage and custodial closets. The design allows visitors to enter the restrooms from both the new North Glade and from within the Children’s Garden depending on time of day and Garden events and programs. The south façade faces the existing Visitor Center service yard, providing easy service access.
Pavilion An open-air covered structure is an ideal venue for educational programs, events and sheltered gathering. The architectural design finds inspiration in Florida vernacular buildings and materials. The floor is of masonry. Ideally, the Pavilion contains storage. Utilities include electric and potable water.
PINE RIDGE PRESERVE This natural area is a compelling example of a significant Florida native ecosystem. The Gar-
27
dens stewards the Preserve to maintain its species diversity and environmental health. The 2011 Master Plan identifies opportunities to integrate the Preserve into the visitor experience (see the Florida Gardens, Children’s Garden and Pine Ridge Preserve Northen Extent Plan, following page 26).
Trail Head A rustic shelter clearly defines the entrance from the Florida Gardens into the Preserve and provides a welcome shaded resting spot at the beginning/end of the loop trail through the North Extent. Design echoes vernacular Florida architecture and materials. The shelter’s native stone floor extends across the service road to create a defined pedestrian crossing. The paving is able to support the heaviest trucks using the road.
North Extent A new path northeast of the existing one completes a loop through the northern section of the Preserve, allowing visitors to circumnavigate the landscape and return easily to the Florida Gardens. A small shaded pavilion anchors the southern end of the path, encouraging people to linger and enjoy the views east to the citrus groves and west to the Tower. Walkers have the option of taking a path downhill and back to the Visitor Center. The path becomes a slightly raised pedestrian crosswalk where it intersects the northeast corner of the Visitor Parking Lot.
South Extent The existing path remains and permits controlled access through existing and enhanced native plantings. Interpretive signage and enhanced planting will give beauty to the path, lending more respect to and interest of the conservation plantings. The path continues south and crosses the Entry Road near the flagpoles and enters the conservation lands (see the Education & Event Center & Relocated Gate House Plan following page 32).
Pinewood Road Realignment moves the southern end of the existing red clay Pinewood Road northward to reduce possible conflicts with the proposed path from the Preserve’s Northern Extent to the Visitor Center. It also reduces possible confusion drivers might experience when trying to locate the road to the Visitor Parking Lot.
OLMSTEDIAN CORE GARDENS The heart and soul of the Gardens dwells within the portions Olmsted and Bok designed. Vegetation has matured and plant compositions have evolved over time, sometimes blurring the original sense of spatial choreography. Future planning and design efforts are necessary to study how best to reinvigorate the historic garden rooms, views, and plantings. (See the Olmstedian Core Gardens Southern Extent Plan, opposite page.)
Enhanced Horticultural Displays Visitors to world-class gardens expect a certain intensity of horticultural displays, particularly artful compositions of color and texture highlighting the seasons. The Gardens realizes its need
28
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to showcase beautiful and botanically interesting species in order to delight and inspire people while building its collections. The potential plant palette includes both native and adapted ornamental species that fit in within the overall naturalistic aesthetic of the Core Gardens. The 2011 Master Plan recommends intensifying or augmenting displays in several areas based on: •
Organizational resources, namely staffing and budgets;
•
The Gardens’ horticultural collections goals;
•
Potential to reinforce the original Olmstedian garden rooms and spatial sequences;
•
Adjacency to primary visitor circulation routes;
•
Relationship with views intended to assist visitors in navigating the grounds through visual cues; and
•
Ability to enhance rentable venues.
The original Olmsted design intent eschewed formal plantings that exhibit the human hand too obviously. The gardenesque was avoided and the picturesque sought for the beautiful and the sublime. From Iron Mountain, the rolling hills of citrus groves, the distant vistas, the architecture of the tower, the tall pines, the lush growth to the persona and character of Edward Bok, the greatness of the place was to be beyond all possibility of calculation, measurement or imitation Future design challenges involve: •
Confirming areas recommended for horticultural enhancements;
•
Developing aesthetic intents and design frameworks to unify all plantings and create a harmonious whole, yet with , but creating distinctive impressions in individual garden rooms and planting beds;
•
Identifying appropriate plant palettes combining showy native and adapted exotic species;
•
Determining relationships among ornamental trees, flowering shrubs and perennials within the plantings;
•
Considering the role of annuals (if any) within the displays and how to integrate them into permanent plantings; and
•
Establishing color schemes and sequences to organize the displays.
Garden Hub Simple and elegant design and materials transform this major intersection within the Gardens into a place to orient visitors to the grounds and allow them a place to gather and pause. Plantings with strong display qualities and horticultural interest embrace the space and link seamlessly with the Main Promenade.
Northern Extent This inward-looking wooded landscape is the site of the first garden Olmsted designed for Mr. Bok, as a more intimate sanctuary for family, friends and neighbors, before the idea arose for
29
the Tower. Shaded walks lead through masses of shrubs and sweeps of groundcovers. Azaleas and camellias provide floral displays in their seasons. The remainder of the year, the Northern Extent is a cool retreat with verdant plays of light and shade. The proposed path system forms a loop beginning and ending at the Garden Hub. A small spur links the eastern side of the loop with the Florida Gardens at the Window By The Pond. New plantings augment the existing azaleas/camellias and add large-scale sweeps of groundcovers showcasing textures and flowers when the shrubs are not in bloom. (See the Pinewood and Olmstedian Core Gardens Northern Extent Plan, opposite page.)
Southern Extent Major enhancements include clarifying pedestrian circulation routes (see the Circulation diagram following page 18), reconfiguring intersections and junctions that have widened over time, and enhancing horticultural displays and collections within the Olmstedian framework. Ongoing stewardship practices manage the plantings according to the original design intent contained in the 1956 Phillips Report.
The Tower The Tower requires additional renovations, a priority for preserving Mr. Bok’s legacy of a garden that inspires through music and architecture integrated with nature and art.
Enhanced South Glade Two arcing new paths and sunlit turf integrate this wooded area into the rest of the Olmstedian Core Gardens. A north-south view emphasizes the depth of the space; views west look up into the Eastern Glade. Groves, ornamental trees, lawns and shrub masses extend the patterns and spatial typologies of the East Glade. Evergreen screening (possibly disguising a fence) blocks views of the Visitor Parking Lot to the east. The walks connect the Visitor Center to the proposed Education and Event Center. A gated service road runs from the northwest corner of the Visitor Center to the Florida Gardens. Demolition of the decrepit support buildings clears room for new plantings and removes two existing eyesores.
PINEWOOD The historic estate and gardens are an important part of Bok Tower Gardens’ historical context and story. Typical day visitors currently underutilize this magical reminder of the Jazz Age. The 2011 Master Plan suggests several opportunities to develop Pinewood into an integral part of the Gardens, both physically and conceptually. (See the Pinewood and Olmstedian Core Gardens Northern Extent Plan, opposite page.)
Road Realignment and Building Removal Removing the existing red clay service road is essential to integrating Pinewood into the overall Bok Tower Gardens experience. A 12’ wide sinuous pedestrian path replaces the road and runs from north of the proposed Vegetable Garden through the Pinewood Terrace and gently uphill to the Tower (see Circulation diagram following page 18). A discrete parking area sits on the site
30
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of the old education building. The building is slated for removal. The path will be for pedestrians, service carts, and an occasional automobile.
Pinewood Terrace A stone and concrete paved area welcomes visitors arriving at Pinewood from the Core Olmstedian Gardens. Low masonry walls echo the design of the front garden and define a clear gateway and sense of arrival. Paving supports the weight of vehicles requiring access to the Tower. Careful pruning and removal of existing vegetation opens sightlines to the house. New plantings seamlessly blend the Olmstedian Core Gardens with the estate.
Enhanced Front Garden Augmenting the horticultural interest of the front garden develops an additional visitor draw and opportunity for plant displays and collections. Doing so also enhances the estate as an event venue. Ornamental shrubs and perennials line the pathway connecting the Vegetable Garden with the two rondels. Paving the central axial walkway with brick enhances visitor access. An ADA compliant ramp or sloped path allows wheelchairs and strollers to reach the house.
Grotto Restoring the historic feature and the surrounding plantings reinvigorates an intriguing and enchanting visitor destination while adding a logical focus for interpretative content sharing Pinewood’s story.
Vegetable Garden An earlier study by landscape historian Rudy Favretti noted that the original Olmsted Brothers (William Phillips) plan for the property suggested the inclusion of a tennis court or vegetable garden in the turf space northeast of the house. Creating a fenced rectilinear “potager” adds a destination to draw visitors to Pinewood and offers opportunities for programming and education. New paths link the front garden’s central axis with the Vegetable Garden and approximately mirror the existing diagonal paths leading to the south rondel.
Restroom Renovations transform one of the existing garages into restrooms, adding a much-needed visitor amenity to this section of the property. Ideally, the adaptive reuse creates men’s, women’s, and “family” facilities within the historic structure.
Back Lawn The original Olmsted design included a winding path along the edges of the back lawn. Staff currently use an approximately similar route for service access. Formalizing the path invites visitors to stroll through this historic landscape. Augmenting existing plantings in keeping with the original Olmsted design creates an immersive garden journey.
Event Tent and Service Area A roomy tent accommodates events for up to 350 people seated at tables. The structure is permanent or installed on a seasonal basis. The floor is a concrete slab. New concrete paths con-
31
nect the Tent with the Pinewood house and its front and back gardens. The siting intentionally reflects the angled relationship of the house and the walled garden and respects a view from the semi-circular garden at the house’s south façade. The service road from Mountain Lake accesses the tent’s south side. A parking area and turn around are sufficiently large for catering trucks and large vehicles necessary for event set-up. Vegetation screens this area from Pinewood and blends with the design of the historic plantings.
EDUCATION & EVENT CENTER This complex sits nestled into the existing landform and mature trees, creating a compelling garden venue for classes, lectures, and functions. The arrangement of structure echoes the courtyard typology of the Visitor Center and Pinewood house. Ideally, the design echoes the architecture of the Visitor Center, but perhaps with a contemporary simplicity and airiness. (See the Education & Event Center and Relocated Gate House Plan, opposite page.) South Entrance A small version of the circular Visitor Center Entry Garden welcomes guests to the Gardens’ proposed central activity and event center. A drop-off space allows cars access to pick up and drop off passengers. A trellis form welcomes people through an opening between the Upper Pavilion and the Education and Event Center. The roof is either solid or open for vines. Upper Pavilion This structure contains restrooms and concessions at the same grade as the gardens to the west to accommodate daily visitors and event crowds on the Concert Lawn. It should include men’s, women’s and “family” toilet facilities as well as an ample custodial closet. A spur off the service road to the south gives access to a freight elevator accessing the lower floor. A balcony on the east side could overlook the Event Lawn and lead to an adjacent roof garden on the Education and Event Pavilion. The lower floor built into the grade opens onto the Event Lawn to the east. This part of the structure holds catering facilities, storage, and possibly offices and restrooms to serve the Education & Event Pavilion.
Education & Event Pavilion and Terrace An open hall accommodates up to 300 at tables for a sit-down dinner or reception. Glass walls open onto the event Lawn to create a functional indoor-outdoor connection. Internal partitions divide the large space into smaller areas for optimum flexibility. The hall contains storage for tables and chairs, a stage alcove, custodial facilities, coatroom, and possibly an office. A green roof and terrace might crown the facility. Wheelchair access would be via the Upper Pavilion. Service access might be accommodated off the Visitor Parking Lot to the north. The two buildings define the north and west sides of an exterior terrace with a water feature along one side. An arbor forms the southern side and covers stairs descending from the Upper Pavilion.
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Event Lawn and Stage This greensward rakes gently north to south to form seating facing the Stage. Island beds with trees and shrubs add a sense of depth and screen the Visitor Parking Lot. A gated path allows large crowds to enter/leave and leads discreetly from the Lawn to the Parking Lot. The open-air north facing elevated Stage sits framed within existing trees and has a solid backdrop and wings. The design might be a “band shell” type structure to generate clear acoustics and support lighting. A loop off the main service road to the south permits access for equipment, chairs, performers, and service parking for large vehicles.
HORTICULTURE SERVICE AREA The Gardens has an ample back-of-house area with room for future expansion. The 2011 Master Plan proposes only two new facilities to augment or replace existing ones.
Storage Building This generously sized permanent “shell” structure replaces the existing Annex Building and holds materials the Gardens only needs to access on a seasonal or infrequent basis. It most likely requires no climate control.
Pesticide Storage Facility A new structure holds pesticides and other materials needing specialized holding conditions. The design conforms to appropriate government regulations for chemical storage and handling.
Service Road Realignments The proposed Education & Event Center requires a realignment of the existing Horticulture and Service Area service road to connect with the back of the new Stage and Upper Pavilion.
PRESERVE AND OPEN SPACE Extents of woods and grasslands border the gardens on the south, west, north, and eastern sides (excluding the Entry Road properties). The vegetative buffer becomes thinnest along the west and north perimeters of Pinewood’s back lawn. Continuing and augmenting existing strategies of management with prescribed fire and removing invasive exotic plants while adding and fostering native flora and fauna is critical for land stewardship goals.
Overflow Parking The Gardens has designated certain turf areas as overflow parking, including spaces: •
North of the proposed Pinewood Vegetable Garden;
•
Southeast and north of the Horticulture and Service Area;
•
Northeast and south of the Visitor Parking Lot; and
•
In limited use, on the great lawn area west and south of the Tower.
Future planning needs to consider how best to enhance these areas for this function.
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Appendix
REALIZING THE MASTER PLAN Site-Wide Considerations Infrastructure systems throughout the Gardens, including potable and irrigation water supply, septic systems, stormwater management, power and communications serve existing facilities well. As elements of the Plan are implemented, systems will be evaluated both in terms of the needs of individual projects, but also with consideration of the Gardens as a whole, towards a coherent approach that optimizes efficiencies and avoids redundancy. Site lighting is a key infrastructure element that the Plan has holistically considered. Lighting is expensive to install and a commitment of resources to maintain. The Gardens anticipates only illuminating routes critical to visitor comfort and safety. Long-term, the Gardens wishes to light the following areas: •
The Main Promenade from the Visitor Center up to its intersection with the path on the new North Glade’s western side;
•
Path from Visitor Parking Lot up to the Great Lawn’s (Concert Lawn) south entrance (approximately 150’ into the gardens);
•
Along the new North Glade lawn’s perimeter path, including the proposed Restroom Building;
•
The Visitor Parking lot and the walk along its western edge;
•
Around the Education & Event Center and its Event Lawn; and
•
Pinewood gardens (front and back) and the path from the grass parking to the house.
Electric lines follow all paved main paths in case resources are available in the future for installing fixtures. Future planning and design determines the style of lighting fixture based on the ultimate character and aesthetic of the areas. Although distinct gardens possibly have unique fixtures, there is a consistent fixture creating visual unity.
Projects Implementation Strategy Unexpected events and unknown future circumstances require that any realization strategy remain open and flexible, to optimize resources and opportunities as they arise. The 2011 Master Plan is therefore a menu of options including renovations and new construction in both front and back-of-house areas. A selection of options offers a range of financial commitments and allocations hopefully appealing to a range of donors and other benefactors. Bok Tower Gardens evaluates possible sequences of projects as part of its ongoing operations and planning. The Gardens is committed to raising endowment funds sufficient to provide for the ongoing maintenance and stewardship of new gardens, landscapes, buildings, and facilities. Doing so involves raising additional monies during capital campaigns. The Project Clusters diagram (opposite) groups projects by related theme and Identity Area (see Identity Areas diagram following page 16). The Gardens will determine which projects are able to occur independently of others and which are inextricably linked due to construction phasing, utilities, and other factors.
36
LEGEND A. Florida Gardens & Children’s Garden
C.7 A.3
1 North Glade 2 Children’s Garden 3 Florida Habitat Gardens
G.3
B. Olmstedian Core Gardens
A.2 C.3
B.4
D.4 D.3
A.1
C.2
G.4
D.2
C.4 C.1
1 Tower Renovation 2 Horticultural Enhancements 3 Western Promenade 4 Camellias and Azaleas 5 South Glade Enhancements
C. Pinewood
D.1
B.3
1 Front Garden Enhancements 2 Vegetable Garden 3 Restrooms 4 Back Garden 5 Event Tent 6 Road Removal 7 Pinewood Road
D.5
C.5 D.6
G.1
B.2 G.2
D. Visitor Center 1 Entry Garden Enhancements 2 Picnic Grove 3 Plant Shop Expansion 4 Café Terrace Expansion 5 Interpretive Exhibit
B.5
C.6
E B.1
E. Education and Event Center
F.3
F. Horticulture and Service 1 Pesticide Storage Building 2 Storage Building 3 Nursery
G. Pine Ridge and Entry 1 2 3 4
F.1 F.2
Entry Landscape Gatehouse Relocation Northern Trail Loop Southern Trail
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REFERENCE DOCUMENTS The development of the 2011 Master Plan involved extensive review of background information provided by Bok Tower Gardens as well as participation by Gardens staff, board members, volunteers and friends (see Master Planning Participants on page 38). Listed below are key documents that informed the Plan. These are on file at the Gardens for future projects’ reference. •
Bok Tower Gardens Long-Range Fundamental Plan 2011-2015, September 2010.
•
Bok Tower Gardens Education & Interpretation Strategic Framework 2011-2015, 2011.
•
Bok Tower Gardens Preserve Heritage Preservation Plan 2007, February 14, 2008.
•
Historic Bok Sanctuary Horticulture & Conservation Long Range Plan, 2005.
•
Land Ownership Map Class II Area Mountain Lake.
•
Map of the Sanctuary at Mountain Lake - Florida, Olmsted Brothers Landscape Architects, July 1930 [File No. 7029, Plan No. 522].
•
Mountain Lake Corporation Preliminary Plan, Olmsted Brothers Landscape Architects, July 1915.
•
The Mountain Lake Sanctuary, Mountain Lake, Florida: A Report, Olmsted Brothers Landscape Architects / WIlliam Lyman Phillips, Landscape Architect, July 2, 1956.
•
The Mountain Lake Sanctuary, A Survey Report, Edward M. Weyer, Jr., 1955.
•
National Historic Landmark Application Bok Tower Gardens, Rebecca S. Schwarz, October 1992.
•
Summary of Historic Landscape Considerations, Studio Outside / David Sacks RLA Landscape Architecture, September 2011.
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The Gardens included a wide-range of participants in the creative group process of envisioning its future. Staff of all levels, board members, volunteers, and community members all contributed their expertise, perspectives, ideas, and hopes during three interactive workshops and review sessions. A Core Planning Team guided the process between workshops and presentations (their names are in italics) A partial list includes: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Louise Adams, Board Member Lisa Allen, Visitor Services & Volunteer Manager Nick Baker, Director of Horticulture Jennifer Beam, Director of Visitor Services & Programs Val Brucker, Volunteer Shannon Burgess, Education Coordinator Bill Burns, Board Chairman Jim Carcano, Garden Supervisor Paul Collins, Board Member Martin Corbin, Graphic Designer Bill De Turk, Director of Carillon Services Frank Driscoll, Garden Member Donna Dunson, Principal, Bok Academy/Lake Wales High School Lawrence Epps, Community Member (Lake Wales Area Chamber of Commerce Board) Jeff Griggs, Volunteer Rita Horton, Wedding & Facility Rental Coordinator Evans Hubbard, Board Member Frank Hunt, Board Member Cassie Jacoby, Director of Communications Steve Jolley, Controller Don Jones, Volunteer Sarah Lingwall, Volunteer Christopher Lutton, Director of Facilities & Operations Gwen Odle, Volunteer Ted Odle, Volunteer Cheryl Peterson, Manager, Rare Plant Conservation Program David Price, President of Bok Tower Gardens Ron Risner, Community Member Patsy Stokes, Garden Member Sandra Sue Dent, Director of Retail Services Joan Thomas, Director of Development & Membership Dick Wood, Board Member Rose Young, Assistant to the President and Human Resources Manager
Photographs by Al Barg, Martin Corbin, John Moran, David Price and David Sacks.
MASTER PLANNING PARTICIPANTS 38
Studio Outside 824 Exposition Avenue Suite 5, Dallas TX 75226 Tres Fromme, Associate, Lead Facilitator and Planner Tary Arteburn, Principal Allison Baker, Graphic Designer Ellen Calhoun, Designer Jessica Pfeer, Graphic Designer
DAVID SACKS RLA Landscape Architecture
David Sacks RLA - Landscape Architecture 89 Dartmouth Avenue, Avondale Estates GA 30002 David Sacks, Principal
The 2011 Master Plan was made possible by the generous support of Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Wood, Jr.
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Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd. Lake Wales, FL 33853 863.676.1408 www.boktowergardens.org