UF landscape architecture students sweep state awards, reach out to community

August 24, 2006

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The Annual Design Awards Gala for the Florida Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects was all about students this year – University of Florida students to be exact.

This year the organization received a record 63 entries from professionals and students around the state. UF students were recognized in five categories, where they competed against not only students, but professionals in the field. UF student projects were recognized in the following categories: open space, planning and analysis, preservation and conservation, resort and entertainment and philanthropy.

“The ability of our students to actively compete on both the collegiate and professional level really showcases the talent we have here at UF,” said Glenn Acomb, UF lecturer of landscape architecture.

One award was very special to Acomb. In the philanthropic category, the project “Courtyard Design Charette: Landscape Architecture for All Ages” received an Award of Excellence. Acomb directed the project, which was a collaboration between the UF department of landscape architecture and the student chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects.

Originally designed by Acomb and his students for the UF Alumni Association’s “Back to College” alumni event, the charette grew into a community service project for fifth-grade students at Ft. McCoy Elementary School. UF landscape architecture students introduced the fifth-graders to various concepts, including scale and space, using cutout paper people as a reference.

Imagination took flight when colored markers were handed out and the students were directed to construct outside “rooms” on a large table-top map of an open area. The designs were discussed using the newly learned concepts, and one lucky group’s design was animated on a computer so the students could truly experience what they created.

“The kids were so open and willing to try things,” Acomb said. “It gave them a chance to draw outside the lines and push the limits of their imagination. It was so great to watch.”

The success and popularity of the project among UF landscape architecture students have inspired Acomb to continue to develop the program and repeat it in the coming years.

“This project will not be going away,” Acomb said. “There are many more children we can reach and inspire.”