The University of Florida’s Landscape Architecture program had the honor of hosting Meg Calkins, FASLA, FCELA, from NC State University for the 10th anniversary of the Edward D. Stone, Jr. Lecture Series. Held at the Harn Museum of Art, the event brought together students, faculty, and staff for an engaging discussion on the role of materials in landscape architecture amid the growing challenges presented by climate change.
As a notable educator, researcher, and author, Calkins spoke about her latest work on materiality in landscape architecture for her forthcoming book. Her presentation highlighted the urgent need to reconsider the environmental, social, and ecological impacts of materials used in the practice of landscape architecture.
Her research focuses on employing a rigorous methodology to assess the embodied carbon of various commonly used materials in landscape design — such as walls, decking, pavement, fences, etc. — to demonstrate their contribution to overall carbon emissions. She also offered practical recommendations to reduce embodied carbon while considering broader ecological and social implications.
One of the exciting landscape architecture projects Calkins cited was the Warsaw Uprising Mound Park by topoScape and Archirgrest. Reimagining and reusing debris from the destruction of the city after World War II, the park recently won the 2024 Landezine International Landscape Award (LILA) for Public Projects.
In addition to providing a valuable resource to educators and practitioners, Calkins also positions her work as a call to action. At heart a pragmatist, Calkins urged practitioners to reconsider their materials specifications to align with more sustainable practices either through the selection of different material types or reducing material quantities. The goal of rethinking landscape materials is to help us “get ahead” of the most serious impacts of climate change.
Dr. Jules Bruck, Director of the School of Landscape Architecture and Planning, also affirmed the speaker’s sentiments and noted that, “As educators, we want to think about how we can further integrate these types of carbon calculations and other performance metrics related to material sustainability into our design curricula.”
The event saw an excellent turnout with a mix of students, faculty, and practitioners in attendance. The evening concluded with a lively reception hosted by Kompan, where attendees enjoyed great food and conversation.
Beyond the insightful discussion, the event marked a milestone in celebrating a decade of the Edward D. Stone, Jr. Lecture Series, reinforcing its impact in bringing innovative voices and critical issues to the UF Landscape Architecture community. More information about the last decade of the Edward D. Stone Jr. Lecture Series can be found here.
The talk served as a powerful reminder of the role landscape architects play in shaping sustainable futures. As the profession continues to evolve, integrating material sustainability into practice and education will be essential for designing landscapes that are both resilient and socially responsible.
Stay tuned for more events and discussions that drive forward-thinking solutions in landscape architecture!