Why did you become a Landscape Architect? I was introduced to landscape architecture by my high school art teacher. I hadn’t really been aware of landscape architecture as an option before, but my teacher, who noticed I had a love of both art, design and being outside, directed me towards it as a career. Obviously, landscape architecture turned out to be a great fit for me, and I’m happy to have found a career that combines art with nature and the outside world.
What types of projects is a Landscape Architect involved in? We handle the design of outside spaces, taking existing land and implementing program elements. We are responsible for planning, management, preservation, and rehabilitation of land, in addition to the design of the landscape. We work alongside other disciplines like civil engineers and architects to create landscape elements that work for the site, the client, and its users. Projects can involve anything from athletic fields and parks to vegetation plans to lighting and more.
Do you have a favorite project you’ve worked on? While I think all my projects pose an interesting and unique challenge, a highlight for me was definitely designing the expansion of the Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Middletown, CT. You don’t often get to work on something that’s interesting to design and also so important. Getting the opportunity to help honor veterans, who are such a valued part of our society, was really gratifying.
What do you like to do outside of work? I’ve been a volunteer firefighter for many years, and I’m currently the Captain of BF Hoxie Engine Company (a volunteer fire company) in my hometown of Mystic, CT. Getting to serve my community is such a great experience – for example, pictured below is a recent fire I helped put out. It was massive, but it was also an opportunity to give back to my community in a big and important way.
