SDG Among ASLA's "Unsung Heroes"

The American Society of Landscape Architects circulated a survey among its Professional Practice Networks asking members to identify the firms they most admire. Searle Design Group came up among the list of lesser-known practices.  "Members identified general categories of practice that often go under-recognized, such as 'the nameless public realm landscape architect' and the educators and mentors who shape and encourage up-and-coming landscape architects: 'The greatest unknown (or unheralded) landscape architect is the one who reaches out and has a positive impact upon educating the next generation.'"  

Education has always been at the core of SDG's practice. Pictured below, Founding Principal Colgate Searle critiques RISD student's work at Harvard Forest in Petersham, MA (Summer 2015).

Frazier Terrace complete in time for inauguration

The addition of paving, lighting and planting at Frazier Terrace was completed last week in time for Rosanne Somerson inauguration as RISD's 17th president. Searle Design Group's vision for the Terrace couldn't have become a reality without the hard work of RISD staff, especially Jack Silva, Associate Vice President of Facilities, Joe Melo, Custodial and Grounds Supervisor, and Bruce Jensen, Electrical/Plumbing Supervisor. Bruce also provided us with the photos you see above.

Phil Taylor and his crew from Bel Terra Landscaping worked hard to implement the design that will make the Terrace a more inviting and usable space. We hope that RISD and all members of the community will enjoy this space for years to come.

Colgate's research at EARTH University, La Flor Campus, Costa Rica

Colgate's EARTH/RISD wintersession studio took RISD students to Costa Rica to build this off the grid, hi-tech/lo-tech prototype classroom for rural schools. In the field, RISD students and faculty, along with members of the EARTH University community, finalized the design for the classroom; built elevations, a cistern/water purification system, doors and louvers, and the landscape. This Studio is part of an ongoing, collaborative project between EARTH University + RISD.

Ultimately, the classroom, with its inside/outside learning environments, demonstrates how integrating curriculum, teaching, energy and hi-tech systems, landscape and space contributes to a transformative learning experience.

EARTH University, based in Guacimo, close to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, is at the forefront of identifying, testing, and sharing techniques for sustainable agriculture and community development in the tropics. Since 2007, RISD and EARTH University have partnered to engage in design studios focused on many topics at the La Flor campus in Liberia, Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica.