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folio 2012 Table of Contents 2
ILASLA President’s Letter
Merit Awards
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2012-2013 ILASLA Executive Commitee
24 Cheney Mansion Phase One Improvements
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Award Criteria
26 Chicago River Fish Hotel 28 Elemental Building, 1610 N. Honore
President’s Awards 10 31st Street Harbor 12 Judge Fisher Apartments
Honor Awards 14 Boneyard Creek Second Street Detention Project 16 Lightscape 18 Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo 20 Panduit Headquarters 22 Urban Residence
30 Glencoe Residence 32 Johnson Controls Headquarters 34 Near North Montessori School Children’s Garden 36 Simple Elegance 38 Thomas J. Waters Elementary School Campus and Outdoor Classroom 40 Waterline: 12 Designers, 12 Dreams 42 Public Recognition Award 43 2012 Student Awards 45 ILASLA Marketing Committee & Production Notes 46 ASLA Fellows & Image Credits 48 ILASLA 2012 Supporters
Image: Judge Fisher Apartments. Photo by Site Design Group, Ltd. Cover Image: 31st Street Harbor. Photo by Renee Henningfeld / AECOM
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ILASLA President’s Letter Friends and Colleagues,
It is my great pleasure to present the Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ILASLA) Folio for 2012. These sixteen award-winning projects showcase the high caliber of professional practice exhibited by Illinois landscape architects in the fields of design, historic landscapes, communications, and environmental stewardship. This broad spectrum of work clearly demonstrates landscape architects’ leadership in design and environmental planning. In an ongoing effort to be economically and environmentally sustainable, ILASLA has gone digital with our publications. Back issues of Folio and Elevation are available on the Chapter website: il-asla.org. Distributed electronically, the 2012 edition of Folio can also be downloaded for individual use. As the Chapter continues to implement tools for members, this format now allows firms flexibility in how they use the content to support their marketing efforts. In the past year, our Chapter has benefitted from an amazing group of committee volunteers; the lifeblood that keeps ILASLA energized. With their hard work, the Chapter has accomplished great things, three of which are important to highlight.
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First, in order for our profession to grow, the Chapter must engage all landscape architects. Seventeen events were held in 2012, eight of which were free for members; the balance held with reduced prices for members. These education and networking forums were provided with both seasoned and emerging professionals in mind.
First, in order for our profession to grow, the Chapter must engage all landscape architects. In fact, whether it was the inaugural event—a lake cruise—or the LARE review and prep session, a new Emerging Professionals Committee is dedicated to outreach to the profession’s next generation.
To expand members’ business acumen, multiple strategy sessions were held throughout the year. In the fall, the Marketing Committee held the first Land Up marketing conference for landscape architects, which drew professionals from across the Midwest. Second, the Chapter maintains its focus on relationships, most importantly those with allied professions and like-minded organizations. The Chapter again held a roundtable at MidAm to bring landscape architects and contractors together to discuss issues that affect the practice. New partnerships were formed to provide discounts for members to several events and publications.
Public service is an important aspect of the cultivation of these relationships and, in turn, helps raise awareness of the profession. In 2012, a group of members volunteered to design and build a play garden at the annual Chicago Flower and Garden Show. President / Show Director Tony Abruscato noted it was the most successful play garden ever displayed at the show. Building on this achievement, Chapter volunteers took on development of two different gardens for the 2013 exhibition. Finally, ILASLA continues to have a strong public outreach and advocacy presence. Throughout the year, the Chapter sent 4450 elected officials, municipal leaders, affiliates, and members a series of three postcards highlighting the award-winning work of Illinois landscape architects. In addition to a presence at the Chicago Flower and Garden Show—and as part
of the National Landscape Architecture month festivities held in April—the Chapter celebrated Fredrick Law Olmsted’s 190th birthday as a partner in the Village of Riverside’s FRED event. Volunteers served up birthday cake, and returned in August to assist with Olmsted’s Design Lessons for Today.
Public service is an important aspect of the cultivation of these relationships and, in turn, helps raise awareness of the profession. These activities represent just a portion of the work being done by ILASLA every day. I sincerely thank the forty-plus sponsors, partners, and advertisers that have contributed generously to the
Chapter’s initiatives throughout this past year. Without this support, and that of our dedicated volunteers, the Chapter could not carry out our mission. As 2013 progresses, I look forward to opportunities to strengthen our membership, bolster our partnerships with allied professions, and advocate, both locally and nationally, for sustainable design and livable communities. But this cannot happen alone. I ask that each member get involved. If you are a firm leader, become active in the Chapter and encourage your staff to do the same. Whether you advocate for a cause, become a committee volunteer, or get involved in your community, you can promote the value of the landscape architecture profession. There is much we can do together. Sincerely,
Christopher M. Gent, asla ILASLA Chapter President
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2012-2013 ILASLA Executive Committee
PRESIDENT
PAST PRESIDENT
PRESIDENT ELECT
TRUSTEE
TREASURER
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Chris Gent, asla, is Principal of Chris Gent Landscape Studio, a firm that creates sustainable, communitydriven public spaces. For more than 20 years, Chris has worked for the Chicago Park District or as a consultant to various City of Chicago agencies. A registered landscape architect, Chris received his Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from the University of Idaho. Beyond his volunteerism for ILASLA, he serves as the cochair of the City of Chicago’s Streetscape Committee, and is a board member of the Chicago Moving Company, a celebrated modern dance company. Steven Halberg, asla, is no stranger to leadership within ILASLA. He has previously served the Chapter as both Treasurer and as a two-time President. Steve earned a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and also has a Masters in Business Administration from Illinois Benedictine College. He is a licensed landscape architect in Illinois and Wisconsin, and is CLARB certified. During his more than thirty-five year career as a landscape architect in Illinois, Steve has served as Superintendent of Parks and Planning with the Elk Grove Park District; Director of Planning and Development with the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County; President and Principal Designer with David Gill/Steven Halberg Limited - Golf Course Architects; and Landscape Architecture Manager for Bonestroo. He is currently a Senior Consultant with Planning Resources Inc. Chris Lannert, asla, President of The Lannert Group, founded the firm in 1982. Since its inception, he has built The Lannert Group into a nationally recognized landscape architectural, planning and community consulting firm. The firm enjoys an excellent reputation for combining technical expertise with artistic vision and has received numerous awards from ASLA and the American Planning Association. Chris is experienced in working with municipal planning departments, engineers, architectural firms, developers and corporations. He received a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Michigan State University. Chris is a member of the Urban Land Institute, American Planning Association, and National Association of Home Builders. He is a past Board Member and President of the Landscape Architecture Foundation, and a past member and Chair on the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations Board. Keven Graham, asla, is a Principal with Planning Resources Inc. in Wheaton. Keven earned an Associate in Applied Science in Architectural Construction Technology from Illinois Central College and a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Iowa State University. A registered landscape architect, he has served ILASLA in numerous positions, including President. He is one of the founding officers of the ASLA Sustainable Design and Development professional practice network and immediate past chair of ASLA’s Public Relations and Communication Committee. He currently serves on ASLA’s Government Affairs Advisory Committee. Tony Quinn, asla, is a partner with Culliton Quinn Landscape Architecture Workshop in Chicago. He earned his Associate in Applied Science in Architectural Construction Technology from Illinois Central College in 1991, and a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1994. Tony is a licensed landscape architect in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan and is CLARB certified. Since Culliton Quinn’s inception in 2004, he has been involved in a diversity of engagements that range from residential, historic landscape preservation, park and recreation, institutional and urban design spaces from the East Coast to the Midwest. For the last several years he has served as a commissioner for the Village of Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission. He is also a member of the Oak Park Architecture Review Committee and the Oak Park Downtown Districts Streetscape Committee.
SECRETARY
ADVOCACY CHAIR
EDUCATION CHAIR
EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR
FELLOWSHIP CHAIR
INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR
Alan Watkins, asla, is an account representative with Clarence Davids & Company. He earned a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2005, and is currently in pursuit of a Master of Business Administration from Northern Illinois University. His responsibilities at Clarence Davids & Company entail sales, estimation, project and account management, and the pursuit of new clients. He has served ILASLA as Secretary since 2009. In that time he has helped to educate high school students about the profession and has worked to increase ILASLA membership. Patty King, asla, is a licensed landscape architect at George’s Landscaping, Inc. in Joliet. She graduated with honors and earned a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture with a minor in biology from Ball State University in 1994. In 2002, she received a Citation of Honor from AIA Illinois for her work with Community First, a grass roots organization that promotes context sensitive design for residential architecture through their publication Workbook for Successful Redevelopment, an Idea and Resource Guide for Building in Established Neighborhoods. Patty’s broad range of experience includes park and recreation, campus planning, green roofs, public safety, religious, real estate development, residential and cemetery design. She is a member of the West Suburban Branch of the USGBC Illinois Chapter. She has been involved with ILASLA since 1999, including past service as the Awards Committee Chair. Kenon Boehm, associate asla, is an Associate Landscape Designer at Premier Landscape Contractors. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture and a Master of Landscape Architecture from Texas A&M University. His responsibilities at Premier Landscape Contractors revolve around all phases of residential landscape design and implementation, mainly in the creation of 3D imagery and production documents. Currently working towards his professional license, as the Education Chair, Kenon is focused on facilitating methods for peers to do the same. Stacey Leonard, associate asla, is a site designer at SmithGroupJJR. After working in both the Madison and Ann Arbor offices, Stacey has found her home in Chicago where she focuses on campus design, campus master planning, streetscapes, healthcare planning and park design. Stacey graduated with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from Michigan State University in 2010 where she first began her involvement with ASLA as the Student Chapter President. In recent years she has also served as Associate at Large for Michigan ASLA and volunteered on the ILASLA Education Committee. Sarah Marrs, associate asla, is a Landscape Designer at CH2M Hill. Her background is transportationoriented design and planning. Sarah joined CH2M Hill after graduation from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2007 and beginning her career with DLK Civic Design in Chicago. She brings a passion for horticulture to her design strategy, and enjoys her work in station and corridor planning; neighborhood redevelopment; and landscape design. In addition to her work with ILASLA, Sarah is currently the newsletter editor for Illinois Section of the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ILITE). Brad McCauley, asla, is a Principal at Site Design Group, Ltd. with a concentration on construction administration. Brad joined the firm after graduation from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2007 with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. His body of work includes streetscape design, residential design, urban parks, playgrounds, and open space design in both the public and private sectors. A licensed landscape architect, Brad has also received Construction Document Technology certification from the Construction Specification Institute.
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2012-2013 ILASLA Executive Committee (continued)
PUBLIC AWARENESS CHAIR
SPONSORSHIP CHAIR
EMERGING PROFESSIONALS CHAIR
MARKETING CHAIR
ASSOCIATION MANAGER
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Nikolas Davis, asla, a Senior Associate with Houseal Lavigne Associates, brings more than eight years of professional experience in landscape design, planning, urban design, and sustainable practices to the firm. Nik has a wide range of experiences that include design of streetscapes, open spaces, and master plans; drafting zoning regulations; creation of design/development standards; development of growth strategies; and illustration of regulatory impacts on the built environment. Nik graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture. Prior to his service as the Public Awareness Chair, Nik served as the Chapter’s External Communications Chair. Amy Olson, asla, is a graduate of the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture and a graduate of the University of Illinois with a Master of Fine Arts in Landscape Architecture. She is a licensed landscape architect in the State of Illinois, CLARB certified and an ISA-certified arborist. She has consulted and worked both in the private sector and public sector in landscape architecture and project management. She currently consults providing landscape architecture services as the President/Owner of Olson Landscape Architecture. Amy also serves as a commissioner for the Village of Glenview Appearance Commission, where they review signage, landscape, and building projects within the Village. Lauren Jennison, asla, is the Design Director for ecology + vision, llc. In this role, she is responsible for all aspects of project production with special attention paid to brand development, concept, and outlook. Lauren focuses her attention on comprehensive master plans and environmental planning, and brings ecology to the forefront of innovative design. She received a Bachelors of Science in Landscape Architecture from Iowa State University. After involvement on the ILASLA External Communications Committee, Lauren became the Emerging Professionals Chair in 2012, a committee which benefits from her passion to bring young professionals together. Terry Warriner Ryan, fasla, landscape architect and partner of Jacobs/Ryan Associates, holds a Bachelor of Arts cum laude from the University of California Los Angeles. Terry began her career in Los Angeles and in 1979 moved to Chicago, joining B. Jacobs & Associates. She cofounded Jacobs/Ryan Associates in 1982. Today the firm is respected for quality design in projects such as the Chicago Riverwalk, the Town of Fort Sheridan, the Museum of Science and Industry’s Smart Home, and the John Hancock Center Plaza. In addition to specific project management, her responsibilities at Jacobs/Ryan Associates include all aspects of business management. Susan Ragaishis earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Arizona, where she studied Theater Performance, Directing and Art. After 10 years of professional theater, she changed her focus to nonprofit management and worked in administration for the Latino Institute, corporate development for Brookfield Zoo, and as the DuPage Regional Director for the American Cancer Society. Passionate about health, sustainable living and aesthetics, she strives to bring the ILASLA to the forefront as the first place to look for a professional landscape architect. With this, she expects to help solidify legislative initiatives, build additional partnership opportunities, and provide rich and meaningful experiences for a growing membership.
Award Criteria The following categories were used to select this year’s award-winning landscape architecture projects. Design – Constructed Projects Recognizes constructed site-specific works of landscape architecture within the sub-categories of residential, commercial, institutional, memorial, recreational and open space, and urban. Considers quality and functionality of the design; relationship to context and stated program; environmental responsibility; and relevance to the profession, the public, and the environment.
Historic Landscapes Recognizes the restoration and/or renovation of historically significant landscapes. Entries may include parks, residential, institutional, and any historical renovation projects. Considers quality and functionality of the restoration and/or renovation, including
clear identification of the original / existing / proposed conditions; relationship to context and stated program; environmental responsibility and stewardship; and overall significance to the profession, the public, or the environment.
Considers quality of content and presentation; usefulness to the intended reader or viewer; and overall significance to the profession, the public, or the environment.
Environmental Stewardship Communications Recognizes achievements in communicating landscape architecture information, technology, theory, or practice to those within or outside the profession. Typical entries may include: published or written documents such as books, articles, videos and audio recordings of presentations on landscape architecture history, art, or technology; educational material intended for the non-technical consumer; events or public service; or material that increases awareness of landscape design, environmental, or conservation issues.
Recognizes a built or unbuilt project with a primary focus on conservation and sustainable design, which is an exceptional contribution towards the protection and long-term management of the natural resources of the Commonwealth. Considers quality and functionality of the design; relationship to context and stated program; environmental responsibility and stewardship; opportunities for landscape architecture to have a significant impact on the environment or environmental decisionmaking; and relevance to the profession, the public, and the environment.
2012 ILASLA Award Committee Julie Gilbert, asla, Committee Chair Emily Placke, asla Sarah Gephart, asla Sarah Dreier, asla Susan Sevcik, asla
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awards Congratulations to the year’s most inspiring and noteworthy landscape architecture projects
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President’s Award
Honor Award
Merit Award
Only one President’s Award of Excellence may be given to a project in each entry category, and only when merited by the jury. This award is presented for an outstanding advancement of the landscape architecture profession, and for projects that exemplify the land stewardship ethic upon which the profession was founded.
Projects are honored with this distinction for superior professional achievement. Only 20 percent of the entries in any of the categories may earn this distinction.
Projects which demonstrate merit in design and/or environmental responsibility shall be given this distinction. Any number of entries in any of the categories may be given this award.
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31st Street Harbor AECOM Chicago, Illinois Public Building Commission of Chicago, Chicago Park District PROJECT TEAM Ardmore Associates, Brook Architecture, Desman Associates, Edgewater Resources, F.H. Paschen, Fountain Technologies, Ltd., K2N Crest, McHugh Construction, Primera Engineers, Quercus Consulting, Regina Webster Associates, Schuler Shook, Site Design Group, Ltd., The Concord Group PARTIES INVOLVED IN PRIOR MASTER PLAN JJR (Chicago Harbor Framework Plan, 2007) LOCATION CLIENT
President’s Award
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Fresh Community Destination Along Chicago’s Lakefront The 31st Street Harbor transforms an underused portion of Chicago’s Lake Michigan lakeshore into a new public amenity. Unlike traditional harbors that focus only on commercial boat activity, this project integrates a 1,000-slip marina with a park, melding high-tech engineering with thoughtful place-making. The result is a vibrant gathering place for Chicago’s South Side community. The marina scope includes a half-mile-long open coast stone breakwater designed to shelter the new harbor marina. Peninsula Park, a new green space, was created using on-site fill on a peninsula of land formed by the breakwater. The landside development includes a harbor services building with a 63,000-
sf accessible green roof, replete with sculptural shade structures and a great lawn. An accessible play area connects the green roof to the existing beach. A grade-separated trail underpass improves pedestrian and vehicular circulation, crucial to park accessibility. Designed to achieve a minimum LEED Silver certification, the development embraces environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Best Management Practices for water pollution—rain gardens, bioswales, infiltration vaults, and treatment structures—accommodate stormwater flows on-site and provide natural filtration. The harbor services building and parking structure are heated and cooled via a geothermal system. The project also includes the adaptive reuse of removed trees. Some trees were used to create new fish habitats in the lake; others were
painted and carved by local artists, and installed throughout the site as a splashy art identifier for the development. The City of Chicago’s wider prairie program played well with the selected landscape plantings. No longer just turf and trees, the park incorporates native and adapted plantings that will reduce maintenance and irrigation demands, and provide food and cover for bird migrations. As one of the largest harbors built in Chicago in the last 50 years, 31st Street Harbor is a new beacon for the city’s South Side. With its community focus, the project provides a memorable place for a neighborhood excited for new parks and recreation activities, and positively contributes to the City’s public realm.
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Judge Fisher Apartments Site Design Group, Ltd. Chicago, Illinois Chicago Housing Authority PROJECT TEAM All-Bry Construction, Inc., FRS Design Group, LLC, Harley Ellis Devereaux, Hinkle Engineering, Spaceco, Inc. LOCATION
President’s Award
CLIENT
Accessibility and Social Spaces Enhance Public Housing The Judge Fisher Apartments is a public housing project catered to seniors. An aged, existing facility, the site was plagued with multiple challenges, from accessibility to serving as a falcon’s refuse area. The Chicago Housing Authority hired the design team to address the accessibility issues, build a permanent entry canopy, and provide congregation and activity spaces for residents to enjoy. Despite the mobility issues of many residents, the main entrance did not meet current ADA standards, the parking lot did not have an accessible ramp, and the site did not allow for occupants to freely move from the front of the building to the rear yard. The site also has a very unusual 12
problem. A rare falcon has taken residence atop the high-rise, and required temporary scaffolding to shield residents and visitors from debris from the bird’s meals. The final plan consists of loosely programmed areas that address each challenge. The entrance is flanked by a magnolia grove with benches, bollard lighting, and a water feature. During heavy rain events, the rain off the new roof canopy, installed to address the resident falcon, falls into the water feature and into a rain garden. In the rear yard, the “Lilac Room” contains multiple picnic tables and benches for gathering and dining, and is surrounded by species of lilac shrubs that bloom at different times to prolong the lilac season. The “Trellis Walk” is a linear passageway with custom planter benches that overlook the open garden
area, which is made up of sod and low groundcover plants that can take foot traffic. A community planting area includes raised planters of varied height, to support residents’ mobility ranges. Input from building residents and the property managers noted that favored activities include strolls through the site and sitting outside to observe the neighborhood. To support these social interactions, typical furnishings, such as benches and picnic tables; grade changes; and custombuilt seatwalls offer plenty of seating opportunities throughout the property. The end result is an enhanced environment designed for accessibility, safety, and interaction; tailored to the unique needs of the Fisher House residents...including the falcon!
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Boneyard Creek Second Street Detention Project Hitchcock Design Group Champaign, Illinois City of Champaign PROJECT TEAM Foth Infrastructure and Environment, LLC, Lin Engineering, Ltd., O’Neil Brothers, Waterflow Consultants LOCATION
Honor Award
CLIENT
Thinking Beyond Function Results in Renewed Civic Space The 9.5-acre Second Street Detention Project is Phase Two of the Boneyard Creek Improvement Plan, a seven-phase plan to provide 100-year flood protection along the Boneyard Creek. A revision to the original 2001 Boneyard Creek Improvement Plan, which proposed above-ground detention for the often flooded creek, resulted in multiple goals being established for the project which included producing a high-quality aesthetically pleasing public project that also provided flood protection, revitalization of the surrounding neighborhoods, improved recreational amenities, and connection between the University of Illinois Campus and Downtown Champaign.
Based on the City’s and the community’s desire for the project to go beyond functional stormwater management, the $10.7-million improvements were designed and constructed to also be an amenity. To that end, two basins serve as the project’s focal points and key sites for community events. These basins feature recirculating natural stone waterfalls; wetlands; and a promenade, overlook, and amphitheater. The promenade and overlook were lowered four feet from street level to create a space that was removed from the busy street and allow users to have tranquil views. A fully accessible pathway system connects users with miles of walkways that serve multiple neighborhoods and communities. Embraced by residents, the site serves as the host for many community events. In 2011, the City hosted a 150th anniversary
Before &
After
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event at the basin overlook and along the connecting promenades. It is one of the venues for 40 North | 88 West, the Champaign County Arts Council annual Boneyard Arts Festival which features the work of hundreds of artists from throughout the county. Performances by local music artists are also given at the Boneyard Creek basins. To ensure that this community jewel remains in pristine condition, the community holds an annual Boneyard Creek Clean-Up event. The Boneyard Creek Second Street Detention Project is not only an efficient model of stormwater management, but also a place that supports recreation, connectivity, and adjacent economic development; all of which have fostered civic pride in a space that was once considered an eyesore.
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Lightscape Site Design Group, Ltd. Chicago, Illinois Chicago Loop Alliance PROJECT TEAM Creative Lighting Design & Engineering, Designlab Chicago, Horizon Contractors, Inc. LOCATION
Honor Award
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CLIENT
Collaborative Process Brightens High Profile Retail Corridor Lightscape: A Multisensory Experience on State Street is a unique installation of color and light, choreographed to music along State Street in downtown Chicago’s busy shopping and business district. Created to be a year-round attraction, it breaks new ground in interactive decorative street solutions. The project was commissioned by the Chicago Loop Alliance, which sought a creative decorative lighting solution that could be adapted to changing seasons without excessive maintenance. The collaborative process in which the client, landscape architect, lighting designers, and programmers developed numerous design concepts was intensified by a fast-track 14-week timeline for the
entire project. The winning concept—an arrangement of LED reeds and integrated sound in planters along the sidewalks— was designed to drive interest and interaction along the street from morning until night. The end result is a one-of-akind experience for residents and tourists. Located along seven blocks of State Street, the installation features 5 clusters of custom fixtures in 18 planters, designed to evoke the grasses of the native prairie. Utilizing durable and attractive materials, the installation is designed to withstand the harsh Chicago environment for years to come. Using low-energy LED lights in place of costly temporary holiday lighting displays, Lightscape advances Chicago’s standing as a leader in smart energy use. In previous
years, holiday lighting schemes were installed, and then discarded. This lowenergy solution will remain for 5 years, using only 7 percent of the energy required by the traditional lighting of one holiday season, amounting to 700,000 kw less energy used in the next 5 years, and an annual savings of $75,000. Between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. each day, the installation’s embedded speakers broadcast musical selections and special announcements as the lights change patterns in synchronization with the music. For instance, during the month of February, the community was able to submit favorite love songs to be played with an accompanying light show as they strolled throughout the corridor. Based on the installation’s popularity, 6 more clusters were installed within the first year.
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Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo WRD Environmental Chicago, Illinois Lincoln Park Zoo PROJECT TEAM Shaw Environmental & Infrastructure (a subsidiary of The Shaw Group), Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Pepper Construction, Studio Gang Architects LOCATION
Honor Award
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CLIENT
Rehabilitated Landscape Showcases Richness of Nature Lincoln Park Zoo’s South Pond is a manmade landscape feature that has been nestled in Chicago’s Lincoln Park since 1876. Although a place of relaxation for more than a century, this much-loved pond was hardly a natural refuge. Too shallow to support native wildlife and to absorb the site’s runoff after rainfalls, it housed stocked fish and a variety of aquatic species released into it over the years. The pond’s perimeter was comprised of steel bulkhead and concrete retaining walls, topped by asphalt walking paths. Almost 70 percent of the surface adjacent to the pond was asphalt or concrete. Lincoln Park Zoo had a vision for South Pond: a natural ecosystem in the heart of
the city. The pond’s rehabilitation would embody the zoo’s transition from its early days as a place of recreation to a 21st century home for conservation, science, and education. South Pond would restore habitats and bring eager students to an outdoor classroom; and sustainability would weave throughout the 14-acre site. At the core of this urban oasis is the reintroduction of a sloping, naturalized shoreline populated with native plants. A rehabilitated pond ecosystem and wetland filter stormwater runoff from the adjacent Farm-in-the-Zoo, and a boardwalk brings people to the water to discover, learn, and connect with nature while they enjoy iconic views of downtown Chicago. South Pond has been transformed into a natural ecosystem planted almost
exclusively with tens of thousands of locally-sourced native plants and more than 100 locally-sourced native trees, a habitat that extends a welcome mat for native wildlife in the heart of the city. Nature Boardwalk is a natural space in the shadow of skyscrapers; a home for birds, fish, frogs, turtles, insects, and mammals; and, ultimately, a place for visitors to experience first-hand the richness of nature. As such, it provides unprecedented educational opportunities for the roughly three million people who visit the zoo annually. Not the least of the benefits of Nature Boardwalk is cultivation of the appreciation and wonder that fuel future stewards of the land and environment at large.
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Panduit Headquarters Daniel Weinbach & Partners, Ltd. Tinley Park, Illinois Panduit Corp. PROJECT TEAM Fountain Technologies, Ltd., Gensler, Pizzo & Associates, Ltd., Power Construction, LLC, Walsh Landscape Construction and Maintenance LOCATION
Honor Award
CLIENT
Sustainable Headquarters Raise Bar for Future Development
area, and a large extensive green roof covers the dining facility.
This 53-acre campus is the new headquarters for Panduit which manufactures products related to communication and electrical network systems. Panduit is extraordinarily dedicated to green design and sustainable practices, and these concepts are clearly reflected in the landscape design.
The eastern half of the site was designed for detention and compensatory water storage in the form of an interconnected series of wetlands that have already attracted large waterfowl. Panduit will provide several years of stewardship after which, upon maturity, this vast area will become a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the Village and open to the public. A crushed stone walking path winds its way through the wetlands and will connect to other public trails systems.
Of the entire campus, only two small patches of lawn grass, less than one half acre, were used in the building’s courtyard spaces. The rest of the site landscape is a combination of low maintenance native grasses and forbs. Bioswales were used to drain all surface parking, Buffalo Grass was used in lieu of Bluegrass for the potential sports field in the future building 20
In contrast to the predominantly natural surrounding landscape, two meticulously designed courtyard spaces were developed for employee and special event use. The east courtyard is a classic, symmetrical
space reinforced by allees of Honeylocust trees. Outdoor dining areas flank an iconic water feature, and a sunken lawn can host casual sports and company events. The west courtyard is a geometric garden of rose beds, masses of ornamental grasses, and a double row of Regal Prince Oak trees slicing through the garden spaces. An advocate for sustainable design in the site plan, the landscape architect worked in close collaboration with the architects and the civil engineers who developed the complex water detention system. A landmark sustainable project for both Panduit and the Village of Tinley Park, it is already being emulated in other Panduit properties, and is held as an example of good landscape design and stewardship practices by the Village.
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Urban Residence Chris Gent Landscape Studio Honor Award
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Chicago, Illinois Private Owner PROJECT TEAM Thor Construction LOCATION CLIENT
Focused Palette and Organized Design Create Urban Oasis At the time this home was purchased in 2000, the backyard was typical of most city lots, a one-and-a-half-car garage, a postage stamp size lawn area, and a concrete patio enclosed by a chain-link fence. Phased over several years, the clients’ goal was the implementation of an engaging garden which provided privacy, space to entertain, and a retreat from the hectic urban environment. The yard was divided into three zones: entertainment, privacy, and garden. A simple palette of bluestone, limestone, and cedar were incorporated to unify the zones. The entertainment area, located off the back porch, allows for direct access to the kitchen and basement area where supplies are stored. Defined by two ponds and lush landscape, the area includes a large bluestone patio edged in limestone, which can comfortably accommodate twenty people. To address privacy, a custom cedar-slat fence along the property line was designed to mimic the east neighbor’s existing fence, but provide the transparency-level
requested by the adjacent west neighbor. A trellis canopy within the fence shades the patio area, and integrated lighting provides a nighttime accent. Staggered bands of bluestone link the patio to a pond and garden. Home to goldfish and frogs, the pond supports a variety of colorful Water Lilies, Iris, and other native aquatics. A mix of native and non-native perennials, ornamental grasses and shrubs attract butterflies and bees, and provide year-round seasonal interest. A second pond and dense Birch grove separate the patio from the garage and alley. The pond’s waterfall provides soothing sounds. Access to the garage and alley is only by a series of floating stepping-stones. A bluestone walk takes people through the grove of disease resistant Chicagoland Grows White Birch, underplanted with a variety of Sedges and ephemeral native spring flowers. To the back is a space for the barbeque grill and smaller gathering area. Despite the limitations of a typical city lot, the space benefits from a focused materials palette and well organized design. The end result is a beautiful and functional urban oasis. 23
Cheney Mansion Phase One Improvements Wolff Landscape Architecture, Inc. Oak Park, Illinois Park District of Oak Park PROJECT TEAM Davey Resource Group, Don McLean, Fuerte Systems, Inc., GRAF/X Communication Group, Inc., South Water Signs, LLC LOCATION
Merit Award
CLIENT
Context-appropriate Design Seamlessly Renews Historic Property Cheney Mansion is a historic house and property owned by the Park District of Oak Park (PDOP). The PDOP commissioned a Site Master Plan to review existing conditions, uses, and programs; problems and opportunities; and potential additional uses and programs. The landscape architect prepared inventories, analyses, alternative conceptual plans, and a final conceptual plan, presented and reviewed at a series of community meetings. Proposed improvements were designed in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Guidelines for the Treatment of Cultural Landscapes. Upon adoption of the Site Master Plan by the PDOP, the firm was engaged to provide services for the highpriority improvements. 24
The most pressing need was improved access and ADA compliance, remedied by a new sloped walkway which starts near the main site entry and curves gracefully through planting beds at the front of the house to reach the first floor terrace and sunroom, where there is an accessible entrance and access to the first floor of the house. The now code-compliant walkway integrates almost invisibly into the existing historic fabric. The house is unchanged except for one small new opening in the low terrace wall, a cut which was carefully aligned with the windows and architecture of the building, and was then “aged” afterwards to soften its appearance. Sidewalks around Cheney Mansion were once large bluestone slabs, most of which were cracked, broken, or delaminating, and were uneven and unsafe. The landscape architect documented all of the bluestone
and identified 200 linear feet of stone in good condition which was picked up and re-set to flank the site entry, in order to retain its historic character, with the rest of the sidewalk replaced with affordable and maintainable concrete. The site of public and private events throughout the year, ad hoc signage attached to the wrought iron fence was an unattractive and ineffective solution. To enhance the visibility of the mansion, the landscape architect and graphic designer designed a free-standing, lighted sign structure and display cabinet to house notices of events and closures, and provide permanent Cheney Mansion identification. The new sign matches the handsome wrought iron fence, and complements the mansion’s historic character.
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Chicago River Fish Hotel WRD Environmental Merit Award
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Chicago, Illinois Friends of the Chicago River PROJECT TEAM Duroweld Companies LOCATION CLIENT
Floating Garden Creatively Solves Lack of Urban Habitat Despite vast improvements in water quality of the Chicago River, the vertical concrete walls of the river’s main stem and a profusion of boat traffic in downtown Chicago make that portion of the river inhospitable for fish and other aquatic animals. Friends of the Chicago River, a nonprofit organization that works to improve the health of the River, had a vision to make the River more fishfriendly. The organization wished to create a habitat for aquatic life and build awareness and appreciation of the River. This would be no ordinary fish crib. It would be a refuge for aquatic wildlife in an urban setting that would attract the attention of passersby. It would be
a pilot project, with a goal of one day having several such habitats to bolster the region’s aquatic species and improve the river ecosystem. Most notably, it would be a first—no other manmade urban fish habitat was known to exist. The resulting Chicago River Fish Hotel is a sustainably-designed, self-contained floating garden. Intended to mimic the qualities of a natural river bank, the Fish Hotel is a floating dock with four manmade islands and four suspended fish cribs at varying water depths. 25 native species at the surface attract invertebrates for the fish to eat and provide needed shade. The cribs provide protective nooks and crannies that the River’s concrete walls lack. Branches and logs at the surface attract turtles and birds.
In a place once nearly devoid of fish, 12 species of fish have visited the habitat, with fish-spawn and breeding taking place there. Other Fish Hotel visitors have included muskrats, great blue herons, dragonflies and butterflies. Milkweed on the floating islands has enabled the habitat to produce monarch butterflies. Near the McCormick Tribune Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, and incorporated into programming there, the Fish Hotel serves as a valuable educational and awareness-building tool. It has attracted international attention and inspired similar projects along other Chicago-area rivers and beyond. A highly visible, verdant oasis on Chicago’s second waterfront, the Fish Hotel has inspired passersby to look at the Chicago River in new ways.
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Elemental Building 1610 N. Honore Altamanu, Inc. Merit Award
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Chicago, Illinois Tom McGrath (Developer) PROJECT TEAM Eco Gardens, Gerhard Zinserling LOCATION CLIENT
Residence Showcases Innovative Green Technologies Located in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood, this 1890’s two-flat residence with a detached garage on a 2,900-sf urban lot has been converted into a three-story single-family home. Following a rigorous dedication to sustainability and reuse of existing materials, it has become a showcase of environmental sustainability for residential development. Rather than tear down the existing home and build from scratch, developer Tom McGrath followed his instinct and retained the shell, then repurposed existing interior building materials. The home features an array of cutting-edge green technology, including a photovoltaic solar panel to power the home. Other green features
include super-insulated windows, fly-ash concrete, LED lighting, solar thermal heating, and reclaimed and reused lumber. The landscape architect designed the outdoor spaces with a similar philosophy. The site includes permeable paving, a 100 percent native Illinois plant palette, and reclaimed materials. At the heart of the design is a 1000-gallon cistern located below grade in the rear yard. This innovative system collects and filters stormwater runoff from the rooftops and site, for reuse as irrigation. The rear yard is shaded by several fast growing Birch trees, and a slower growing Oak. The Birch trees will provide shade instantly, and as the landscape matures the Oak tree will eventually shade the entire back yard and become the dominant
feature. Forbs and grasses were carefully chosen to survive long periods of drought. Connected to the home by an overhead catwalk, a roof deck sits above the garage. The solar panels double as a shade canopy, and an edible container garden along the south edge of the deck takes advantage of sunlight. Throughout the course of construction, and prior to purchase, the site was used as an educational showpiece for green development. Tours were given to developers, builders, and design professionals to study technologies that can be applied to similar developments around the country. The home was awarded LEED Platinum certification, one of just a handful of buildings in Chicago to achieve this status. 29
Glencoe Residence The Garden Consultants, Inc. Glencoe, Illinois Private Owner PROJECT TEAM Autumn Tree Care, Bono Consulting, Inc., Dirt-N-Turf Consulting, Inc., Konstant Architecture, Krugel Cobbles, Lightscape, Inc., Muellermist, Platinum Poolcare, Post and Picket LOCATION
Merit Award
CLIENT
Singular, Refined Vision Ties Diverse Spaces Together Overlooking a picturesque golf course, this project seamlessly integrates an existing home and extensive program into a series of intimate outdoor rooms that frame stunning views of the borrowed landscape. The principal challenge, and overarching design intent, was to preserve the character of the setting, while incorporating a substantial program within the main viewshed of the adjacent groves of mature Oaks. The restrained design solution mediates between the home and the landscape beyond; it gently extends the building and welcomes and engages the neighboring site. Program elements included a large pool, multiple lounge and dining areas, a modest 30
outdoor kitchen, perennial gardens, and a substantial lawn. Extensive safety-code fencing and a sizable utility area were adjunct requirements. The circulation hub of the design, a courtyard facilitates a change in orientation and punctuates the primary axis that connects the formal lawn, pool, and upper terrace. The pool terrace, the signature space of the garden, is centered on the prominent bay window of the home, knitting together building and landscape. To preserve the golf course views from the home, the grade of the pool was set two feet below the finished floor elevation. Embraced by planters and limestone seat walls, the space is sheltered and rich with texture. Lush plantings hug the walls to enhance the sense of enclosure while
two levels of built-in planters modulate the transition to the pool environment. Surrounded by garden, hearth, and home, an upper terrace provides a cozy space for dining and gathering around the outdoor fireplace. Preservation of several mature Oaks on site was the starting point for planting design and consultation with an arborist was key to mitigate disturbance. Flowering shrubs, masses of perennials and grasses, and bold swathes of lasting bulbs enliven the garden year-round. Plantings include a mix of native and adapted species, and contemporary seasonal planters add the finishing touch. With the fundamental goal to showcase this special setting, the project successfully integrates program, home, site, and context to reveal a singular, refined vision.
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Johnson Controls Headquarters Conservation Design Forum Glendale, Wisconsin Johnson Controls, Inc. PROJECT TEAM Affiliated Engineers, Gensler, Harwood Engineering Consultants, Hunzinger, Leedy & Petzold Associates, Ring & Duchateau, Walker Parking Consultants LOCATION
Merit Award
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CLIENT
Reconnection to Living Systems Transforms Corporate Campus The Johnson Controls headquarters is a leading-edge, high performance facility that now has the largest concentration of buildings on one campus to ever receive LEED Platinum certification. Completed in 2009, the project involved the renovation of two existing buildings and the addition of two new ones, each certified LEED Platinum. A key to this remarkable achievement is transformation of the existing 30-acre campus. A primary goal of the project was to create a healthy working environment for employees as well as habitat for plants and animals. Once dominated by asphalt parking lots and turf lawns, the site also contained a stream and pond system choked with invasive plants and overrun by geese. The
grounds now contain 13 acres of restored upland prairie and a healthy stream whose banks are lined with native herbaceous plants. A second pond was added to increase the site’s wetland habitat and buffer the existing pond from stormwater runoff. Employees routinely report seeing turkey, pheasant, great blue herons, muskrat, deer, foxes, and even mink from their office windows or site’s trail system. Closer to the building, employees enjoy beautiful gardens planted with an array of hardy grasses and flowering perennials. Distinctly New American Garden, plantings are arranged in broad, natural sweeps which allow individual species to migrate into their preferred locations over time. The layering of four-season interest flowers and foliage is punctuated by outcroppings of limestone hand selected from a local quarry.
With a stream and wetlands bisecting the property, water conservation and reuse strategies were especially important. Rain water runoff from new roof surfaces is collected in a buried 30,000-gallon cistern for reuse. As a result, even though the number of employees on campus has more than doubled, the consumption of potable water has been reduced by 595,000 gallons per year. Other stormwater management techniques include permeable pavements and rain gardens which slow runoff, encourage infiltration, and filter and cool the water before it is discharged into the adjacent waterway. The project is a shining example of how a sterile, 40-year-old suburban campus can be reconnected to surrounding living systems.
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Near North Montessori School Children’s Garden Site Design Group, Ltd. Chicago, Illinois Near North Montessori School PROJECT TEAM Clauss Brothers, Inc., GFGR, Inc., Sawhorse Gang, Terra Engineering, Inc. PARTIES INVOLVED IN PRIOR MASTER PLAN Rusty Keeler of Natural Playgrounds LOCATION
Merit Award
CLIENT
Safe Space Offers Freedom to Play, Explore, and Learn Located on one of the busiest urban streets of Chicago, the Near North Montessori School is a privately funded PreK-8 institution. Serving over 500 students, the school embarked on a plan to build a Children’s Garden adjacent to its new gymnasium. The new garden was required to meet all Montessori Method philosophies, and to follow a constructivist model where children learn from discovery rather than prescribed play. Previously occupied by typical playground structures, the school opted to develop a natural play garden with more discovery opportunities. The children’s garden includes “Misty Mountain”– a 5-foot hill with fruiting trees, perfect for rolling down; 34
and a “Peace Pole” quiet area with boulder seating and shrubs. Other amenities include a willow hut, willow tunnel, sand pit, “Pizza Garden” with edible plantings, and a stage area with log seating. An accessible “Tree House” with a climber made of artificial rock resembling an abstract butterfly, was inspired by student designs of a butterfly made of clouds. Based on a previously prepared program and conceptual plan, the landscape architect was hired to interpret the plan and program; develop a formal design and budget; and produce documents for construction. The design was rigorously vetted for accessibility and compliance with current ASTM guidelines so that it was not only safe, but children with disabilities would have access to the major garden components.
The final design responds to numerous unique challenges, including occupancy needs of the garden; durability of custom play elements; and a lack of space for the desired program. Plants were selected for their hardiness and aesthetic attributes throughout the school year. The plant palette includes edible plants such as Serviceberry; showy winter interest plants such as the espaliered Witch Hazel and Holly, and plants with interesting characteristics such as Allium bulbs and Purple Love Grass. Through the collaboration of the design team, Near North Montessori School students now have an engaging, safe, and imaginative space to play, explore, discover, and, most importantly, learn.
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Simple Elegance Mariani Landscape Merit Award
Northshore, Illinois Private Owner PROJECT TEAM Marvin Herman & Associates LOCATION CLIENT
Graceful Places Arise From Neglected Landscape From viewing the grounds today, it is hard to believe this property was discovered by the current homeowners in a derelict state, the gardens overgrown and the house inhabitable. The homeowner hired the landscape architect during plans to add a substantial addition to the building, doubling the size of the structure. The team collaborated closely with the building architect and interior designer to thoughtfully decide how the gardens and residence would interact and complement one another. The goal was that the main design elements—the residence, gardens, and lake view—although each beautiful, would not overshadow one another but instead be balanced. 36
Not much was known about the history of the property although it is thought to have been originally developed in the 1920s. The overall design intent was to create a calming landscape that evokes a sense of time and place, and incorporates new functional requirements of the residence such as a pool, gravel driveway, dining terraces, and tennis court. The landscape design takes a cue from the simplicity of the lake and uses big sweeps and a clean color palette of whites and greens. The drive court design looks misleadingly simple. Great care was taken to develop the construction details so none of the house foundation was exposed and the gravel drive could run right up to the structure. The rear garden, entered through a new gate on the south side of
the house, leads through a white garden to the bocce court which features repurposed on-site stone as a surround. On the south side an old bluestone terrace was reset and expanded. The design team located aged bluestone to match the stone on-site to ensure no noticeable difference. The pool required bluff stabilization through a steel wall and erosion control, but the elegant end result justifies the effort. This graceful landscape was created through strong design team collaboration and a willingness to work through the smallest of details. The landscape architect was fortunate to be working with a client who understood the importance of keeping the context of the property intact. The end results are simple, elegant, and timeless.
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Thomas J. Waters Elementary School Campus and Outdoor Classroom The Lakota Group Merit Award
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Chicago, Illinois Chicago Public Schools PROJECT TEAM Bailey Edward Architecture, Eriksson Engineering Associates, F.H. Paschen, K.R. Miller Contractors LOCATION CLIENT
Living Classroom Supports Ecological Curriculum Not the typical Chicago elementary school, Waters’ Ecology and Environmental Studies curriculums have long taken a unique approach to education about plants, nature, and human interaction with the environment. For years, the southern portion of the 3.4-acre campus was dedicated as a community garden and used as an outdoor laboratory for students to learn about plant identification, native versus non-native species, water consumption, soils, food production and energy systems. To the north, however, the majority of the remaining school grounds, nearly 2.25 acres, consisted of an impermeable, deteriorating asphalt lot. In 2007, the landscape architect initiated a campus and outdoor classroom design process to capitalize on the school’s hands-on education approach and incorporate environmentally sustainable
elements and practices into a fun learning and recreational setting. The program for the new campus included a classroom addition on the southern end of the school; new garden house/storage space for the community garden; recreation field; two playgrounds for different age groups; staff parking; and new outdoor garden space.
and heighten awareness of the nearby Chicago River. A bioswales system along the east helps mitigate localized flooding and provides additional educational opportunities. The north end of the site features two playgrounds and multiple “experiment” gardens used in the school’s Ecology Program.
Expanded to the north with native planting areas, the community garden creates an edge to a new outdoor classroom space comprised of permeable pavers. The outdoor classroom relates to the school addition and also provides the opportunity for seating and gathering.
Other key sustainable features include a green roof; two cisterns for stormwater capture and reuse; recycled material benches; permeable paver parking lot; recycling stations; crushed stone walks in the community garden; rain barrels; and display of student artwork salvaged from a demolished garden house.
East of the classroom addition, a play field made of recycled materials comprises the main recreational space. The field is bordered by a winding, interpretive “river walk” path that includes plant and animal imprints used to educate students about wildlife and different plant species,
Students have a living classroom in which to interact with nature and, notably, it was designed as a model of land stewardship. In fact, the new campus reduced the impermeable surface of the campus by approximately 1.1 acres.
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Waterline: 12 Designers, 12 Dreams Skidmore, Owings & Merrill South Branch of the Chicago River, Chicago, Illinois Spirit of Space, Friends of the Chicago River HARVARD GSD STUDIO PARTICIPANTS Phil Enquist (Instructor), Conor O’Shea (Teaching Assistant), Students: Adriana Chavez, Aldo Burcheri, Aleksandr Nizhikhovskiy, Cameron Barradale, Catherine Tang, Evelyn Zwiebach, Nina Chase, Roger Weber, Sadatu Dennis, Stephanie Saltzman, Tilly Hatcher, William Dibernardo LOCATION
Merit Award
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PROJECT TEAM
“Much like Lake Michigan is Chicago’s front yard, the Chicago River is our backyard. It should be an asset that people across the city enjoy, not avoid.” –Mayor Rahm Emanuel
Waterline: 12 Designers, 12 Dreams, is a multimedia project that communicates the immense potential for a re-birth of the South Branch of the Chicago River. This corridor of approximately three miles touches Chicago’s central city, transit hubs, office core, industrial corridors, and emerging residential and arts neighborhoods. Yet rarely do people stop and contemplate the River as a positive amenity or a place to spend time. Waterline inspires Chicagoans to see the River as an asset that can provide ecological services and contribute to the city’s social, cultural, and economic life.
The landscape architect’s team of city designers and graphic designers worked with videographers from Spirit of Space to bring Waterline to life. The project built on a 4-month Harvard University Graduate School of Design studio that investigated the South Branch of the Chicago River, and established the following principles as a foundation for their work: • • • • •
Improve water quality Protect nature and enhance wildlife Balance river uses Strengthen community life Continue the Chicago architectural legacy • Raise the value of this unique amenity through the heart of downtown • Celebrate the City and its river • Raise the public’s awareness that this River is a great asset
The work culminated in an exhibition hosted by Friends of the Chicago River at one of the most public locations along the Chicago River, the Bridgehouse Museum at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. From June 21 to August 31, 2012, approximately 5,000 visitors engaged with the Waterline vision. In addition, 4 documentary videos created by Spirit of Space have been viewed over 25,000 times on various video and social media sites. With media coverage in Architectural Record, TimeOut Chicago, the Chicago Journal, WBEZ public radio, and international publications, the project successfully engaged a broad audience.
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Public Recognition Award
Donna V. Robertson, faia Former Dean of the College of Architecture at Illinois Institute of Technology This fall, after a remarkable sixteen-year tenure, Donna handed over leadership at Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) to the world renowned architect Wiel Arets. Throughout her outstanding career, Donna’s contributions have been pivotal to the advancement and legacy of both IIT and the profession of landscape architecture. Her positive influence, capacity to persevere, and ability to make difficult decisions under pressure have served as an example to students, staff, and colleagues throughout the City of Chicago and beyond. Donna understands, respects, and truly embraces the profession of landscape architecture. Over the course of the last decade, she singlehandedly influenced the profession’s history in the State of Illinois. Illinois had only one Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) program— until Donna steadfastly spearheaded her dream of the establishment of an MLA program at IIT. The idea began when she created an outreach committee to pursue this enormous undertaking in 2004. Two years later the program began with just 4 students. It has since grown exponentially to 24 students and received full Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board (LAAB) accreditation in 2010. In a short span of time, the school has developed clear direction and is home to a stable of talented full-time professors and a wide range of adjunct professors. Most recently, an IIT Masters of Landscape Architecture student, was 42
recognized with two significant awards, neither of which had ever been awarded to a non-architecture student. The student was recognized with the Alpha Rho Chi Medal, awarded by colleges of architecture nationally; and the prestigious Schiff Fellowship for Architecture, an annual competition between the architecture departments of The University of Illinois at Chicago, the School of the Art Institute, and the Illinois Institute of Technology for the most outstanding upper level studio project. This is a sneak preview of greater things to come for this program. In light of IIT’s recent success, it is difficult to believe that in the early years of Donna’s term as Dean, The Princeton Review ranked the campus environment among the worst in the country. The university was considering closing its urban doors and moving the entire campus to the suburbs. Her leadership steered IIT through an institutional renaissance
unlike any other. Quickly yet carefully, two master plans were produced; one for buildings and one for landscape. Two significant buildings were designed by internationally acclaimed architects, and a substantial number of landscape projects were realized. The campus received a 2005 ASLA Design Award of Honor, and fittingly, in 2011, Forbes Magazine included IIT among the “Fifteen Most Beautiful Campuses in the Country.” Donna has a vision for Chicago beyond IIT. She understands the importance of the city’s landscape architectural heritage, and worked to create an academic home for landscape architecture students, and a haven for intellectual discourse for practicing landscape architects in the area. It is fitting that the ILASLA recognize Donna for her service to the advancement of our profession. She has created a legacy that the profession can celebrate and honor.
2012 Student Awards University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign Department of Landscape Architecture ASLA AWARDS ASLA Undergraduate Certificate of Merit Vanessa Slivinski ASLA Undergraduate Certificate of Honor Heather Faivre Kealan O’Neil ASLA Graduate Certificate of Merit Janet Broughton ASLA Graduate Certificate of Honor Miran Jung-Day Illinois Chapter ASLA Outstanding Student Awards Junior - Tyler Wood Senior - Heather Faivre Graduate - Janet Broughton
ARCHON Prize First Place Evan Blondell Second Place Amir Habibullah Kevin Wojtas Third Place Janet Broughton Heather Faivre
Beatrice Hornemann Scholar (Zonta Award) Janet Broughton Bruce Borland Scholarship Lucas Geier Mitchel Heiar Chalet Nursery Prize Jason Buckley Golf Builders Association Award Jae Hong Chung Kesler Prize Neha Rajora Pauline Tilton Kennedy Prize Anna Hochhalter Zheng Li Pardis Moinzadeh Doug Williams Undergraduate Alumni Merit Scholarships Jason Buckley Jackie Lopez Adam Nichols Tyler Wood
Sigma Lambda Alpha Initiates-PSI Chapter Senior BLA Kealan O’Neil Lin Ye MLA Colleen Fitzpatrick Miran Jung Day
Traveling Fellowship Presentations George & Dorothy Fiel Traveling Fellowship Jennifer Thomas Cherie Kluesing Fellowship Evan Blondell Ryerson Traveling Fellowship Heather Faivre Nellie Mogge
Illinois Institute of Technology Program in Landscape Architecture First in Class Fa Likitswat
Wadsworth Business/Internship Scholarship Jae Hong Chung Heather Faivre John Palarz Rebecca Simantz
Schiff Foundation Fellowship Fa Likitswat
Wadsworth Scholarship Mitchel Heiar Madeline Schuette
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ILASLA Marketing Committee In 2005, the ILASLA Marketing Committee was formed by senior practitioners to elevate the awareness and appreciation of the landscape architecture profession. The Committee focuses on targeted initiatives developed through a planning process where stakeholders discuss and prioritize the programs under consideration.
learned about such topics as branding and search engine optimization. Considered a resounding success by all who attended, the Committee decided to hold the event again this year. Land Up 2013 will be held on October 4, 2013. If you want to kick start your business development, do not miss this one!
In 2012, the Committee held the first Land Up at the Chicago Architecture Foundation, a one-day seminar for landscape architects to learn how to better market their services. About 150 landscape architects from 6 states around the Midwest attended this event and
A second ongoing initiative is the production of case studies to be gathered into a book, ready for the 2015 ASLA Annual Meeting in Chicago. As a result of efforts to solicit applications last year, 10 new projects were qualified through the Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF)
Landscape Performance Series. There is still plenty of time for your firm or agency to participate. The Committee will again seek applications for the 2014 program, which will be available in November 2013. The Committee’s support for such efforts is accomplished solely though its own fundraising. If you or your firm would like to contribute to and participate in the Marketing Committee’s upcoming efforts, please contact Committee Chair, Terry Warriner Ryan, fasla at marketing@ il-asla.org.
Production Notes Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects P.O. Box 4566 Oak Brook, Illinois 60522 630.833.4516 www.il-asla.org 2012 Folio Committee Erin Fiegel, asla Christopher Gent, asla Christopher Lannert, asla Stacey Leonard, asla Susan Ragaishis Editor / Copywriter Erin Fiegel, asla Concept and Design a5 eBook Publisher Imago zMags Generously sponsored by Autumn Tree, A SavATree Company
Folio 2012 is an official publication of the Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects. This publication’s goal is to increase public awareness of landscape architecture as a profession and recognize the works of our profession that bring honor to us all. With this year’s issue, we offer our readers a glimpse of a number of unique projects that highlight the work of Illinois landscape architects.
To the best of our knowledge, all information at the time of publication is accurate. The Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects, the publisher, the copywriter and designer, and the production firm are not liable for omissions or errors.
The entire contents of this issue, including the plans, photographs and all artwork are under copyright agreement with the Illinois Chapter, ASLA and may not be copied or reproduced except as specified under contract with the Illinois Chapter, ASLA.
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ASLA Fellows 2010 David Yocca
1999 Allen R. Edmonson
1993 Robert Zolomij
2009 Paul H. Gobster
1999 Brian Orland
1992 Joseph P. Karr
2009 Theresa Guen-Murray
1998 Gary B. Kesler
1992 Debra L. Mitchell (TX)
1997 Terry Warriner Ryan
1991 Donald J. Molnar (IN)
2009 Scott Mehaffey 2009 James M. Patchett 2007 Douglas Hoerr 2006 Peter Lindsay Schaudt
1996 Franklin C. Clements 1996 Mark Hunner 1996 Joseph Nevius 1995 Susan L.B. Jacobson
1989 Vincent Bellafiore 1989 Jerrold Soesbe 1981 William Nelson, Jr.
2000 Bernard P. Jacobs
1994 Terence G. Harkness
1966 Clarence E. “Bish” Hammond
2000 Anthony Tyznik
1993 Robert B. Riley
1960 Wallace B. Atkinson
Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo 1-4: WRD Environmental
Johnson Controls Headquarters 1: Gensler 2-4: Conservation Design Forum
Image Credits Credits listed top to bottom, left to right Cover Renee Henningfeld / AECOM Table of Contents Site Design Group, Ltd. Awards Breaker Linda Oyama Bryan 31st Street Harbor 1: Renee Henningfeld / AECOM 2-3: Dixi Carrillo / AECOM 4: Scott Stevenson / Westrec Marinas Judge Fisher Apartments 1-4: Site Design Group, Ltd. Boneyard Creek Second Street Detention Project 1: Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC 2-5: Hitchcock Design Group Lightscape 1-5: Site Design Group, Ltd.
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Panduit Headquarters 1-2: James Steinkamp 3-4: Dan Weinbach Urban Residence 1-4: Chris Gent Cheney Mansion Phase One Improvements 1-2, 4: Tim Benson Photography 3: Wolff Landscape Architecture Chicago River Fish Hotel 1-5: WRD Environmental Elemental Building – 1610 N. Honore 1, 4: Altamanu, Inc. 2: Ecogardens, LLC 3: Tom McGrath Glencoe Residence 1-4: Linda Oyama Bryan
Near North Montessori School Children’s Garden 1-4: Site Design Group, Ltd. Simple Elegance 1-4: Linda Oyama Bryan Thomas J. Waters Elementary School Campus and Outdoor Classroom 1-3: The Lakota Group 4: Charlie Mayer Photography Waterline: 12 Designers, 12 Dreams 1: SOM / Spirit of Space 2, 4: SOM 3, 5: Spirit of Space
milenio Business Development Illinois Jennifer Woods 1.800.430.6206 x1336 Skip Redner 1.800.430.6206 x1328
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Next Bartlett Seminars event at il-asla.org 47
ILASLA 2012 Supporters The mission of ASLA is to lead, to educate, and to participate in the careful stewardship, wise planning, and artful design of our cultural and natural environment.
knowledge of the field, interact with colleagues, share industry news and products, and most importantly, build key relationships to help grow and improve their businesses.Â
In support of this mission, the Illinois Chapter, ASLA invests in education and networking events for our members. Such gatherings give members the opportunity to increase their
We are grateful to the people and organizations that supported the Illinois Chapter, ASLA in 2012.
Platinum Annual and ePublications Autumn Tree, A SavATree Company Platinum Annual and Professional Enrichment Series Bartlett Tree Experts Platinum Annual Landscape Forms The New York and Chicago Office of William Joseph Quinlan Unilock Chicago Inc. Gold Annual Maglin Site Furniture Silver Annual Whitacre Greer
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Event and Publication Sponsors Aquascape Designs, Inc. American Hydrotech, Inc. Andrews/LeFevre Studios AVA Power Belgard USA CalStar Products Cardno JF New CCL Construction, Inc. C.R. Schmidt, Inc. Cunningham Recreation Davey Resource Group EJ Forms+Surfaces FX Luminaire Greenscreen Howard L. White Associates, Inc. Hunter Industries Hydrotech Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet, LLC
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Promenade™ Paver Series
Project: Telus Tower, Toronto, Ontario. Master Plan: gh3 Landscape Architect: The MBTW Group Product: Promenade ™ Series with exposed granite surface texture (Series 3000 ®)
4 DISTINCTIVE SURFACE TEXTURES 23 COLORS 3 SIZES
LINEAR • CONTEMPOR ARY • SLEEK For a sleek look that complements contemporary architectural design. The long, narrow proportions of our Promenade Paver Series convey a sleekness that complements contemporary architectural design. Choose from four proprietary surface textures to add richness to your look. Unilock's industry leading EnduraColor™Plus technology will keep colors true to your specification. Please contact your Unilock representative for samples.
Scan to view the Promenade Series collection
B O S TO N
Available sizes: 4" x 12" x 4" - 4" x 16" x 4" - 8" x 24" x 4"
C H I CAG O
DETROIT
N E W YO R K
1-800-UNILOCK
PHILADELPHIA
CLEVELAND
w w w. u n i l o c k . c o m
M I LWAU K E E
TO R ON TO
B U F FA L O 49
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