Historic Landscape Reimagined: Gainesville’s Matheson Museum
University of Florida landscape architecture students presented planting designs for the historic grounds of the Matheson History Museum within Sweetwater Park to museum board members, advisory group members, as well as the City of Gainesville Parks and Recreation staff and the public during the LAA 2361 Planting Design Studio final review for the 2025 Spring semester.
The work was part of a community-engaged studio co-taught by Dr. Jiayang Li (Assistant Professor, Landscape Architecture) and Dr. Gail Hansen (Professor, Environmental Horticulture) for sophomore landscape architecture students.
Through the arc of a semester, students developed detailed planting plans and other design features for key areas of the museum grounds, including the Museum entrance space and the Matheson House, with the goal to revitalize this currently underused greenspace. Additionally, students also addressed issues related to stormwater management and erosion that is occurring around the detention basin and on the southern portion of the site. Working in teams and individually, students proposed detailed planting plans and material palettes that balanced historical significance, contemporary community desires and uses, and ecological health.
“Our students were challenged to design with both cultural heritage and ecological performance in mind,” said Dr. Li. “They explored how planting design can activate public place, communicate meaning, and deliver environmental and ecological benefits.”
Many students chose to honor Sarah Matheson, who originally donated the property to the Alachua County Historical Society, by integrating azaleas, camelias, and other colorful plant varieties that reflect her legacy. Projects also emphasized community identity, low maintenance, and biodiversity—supporting both beauty and functionality in this public greenspace at the heart of Gainesville.
The second-oldest residence in Gainesville, FL, the Matheson House was originally built in 1867; the Museum building holds permanent exhibits illustrating the city’s long history.
The planting design studio review included presentations to faculty, peers, and community partners, reinforcing the studio’s focus on real-world application and collaboration. The studio is part of the second year of the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture curriculum and offers an early opportunity for students to engage with professional-level design challenges through a meaningful community partnership.