2024 Landscape Award Winners
AWARDS of EXCELLENCE
Restoration of Longleaf Pine Woods
Red Gate Road, Orange County, Florida
Peggy Lanz
Habitat Restoration and Conservation Category
Restoring a five-acre area in Orange County to its original longleaf pine/sandhill habitat is no small feat, and Peggy's efforts have clearly paid off, encouraging the return of native species like gopher tortoises and the Lupinus aridorum. The trust fund established to care for the property further underscores her long-term commitment to conservation and restoration.
Ripple...as a drop of water becomes a river.
Old Palm City, Martin County, Florida
Martin County Board of County Commissioners
Commercial and Institutional Landscaping Category
This remarkable project, which transformed four parcels in Old Palm City into a Stormwater Treatment Area, is a true testament to Martin County's commitment to sustainability and creative placemaking. By incorporating over 11,000 native plants, walking trails, and educational elements, they have not only enhanced the beauty of the area but also made a significant impact on the environment by reducing phosphorus and nitrogen levels in the Indian River Lagoon system.
Pollinator Garden at Fanning Springs State Park
Fanning Springs, Florida
Heather Blake and The Garden Club of the Tri-Counties
Pollinator and Wildlife Demonstration Category
This garden by the park ranger station is a beautiful and vital addition to the park, providing essential habitat for pollinators and birds, conserving water, and enhancing the well-being of visitors. The educational impact of the project, particularly with The Garden Club of the Tri-Counties learning about weeds versus wildflowers, is also truly commendable.
Coconut Grove Historic Homestead
Miami, Florida
Residential Landscaping Category
This awardee transformed the landscape surrounding a neglected, 1914 cottage into a native tropical hardwood hammock, restoring the natural environment of the Miami Rock Ridge. Transforming the overgrown property into a native tropical hardwood hammock not only preserves the native habitat but also honors the historic character of the home, reflecting the natural environment of the Miami Rock Ridge. The designer's work ensures that both the landscape and the history of the site will be cherished for years to come.
AWARDS of HONOR
Camp Mahachee Hammock Restoration
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida
Habitat Restoration and Conservation Category
The dedication of this group to restoring this 11.5-acre tropical rockland hardwood hammock, a treasured property of the Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida for over 76 years, is truly commendable. The history of this land, purchased with funds from cookie sales, and its proximity to the Miami-Dade County’s Environmentally Endangered Lands Matheson West Hammock preserve, adds a rich layer of significance to your efforts.
Upper Garden at Pinecrest Gardens
Pinecrest, Florida
LandscapeDE, LLC and Pinecrest Gardens
Commercial and Institutional Landscaping Category
The transformation of this historic site, once home to the beloved Parrot Jungle, into a vibrant and inclusive children's garden is truly remarkable. The Landscape DE team's commitment to enriching children's programming, with a particular focus on inclusivity for children on the autism spectrum, is deeply commendable. The ecologically focused design, which prioritizes native South Florida plants, has not only enhanced the natural beauty of the space but also created a vital connection between children, their families, and nature.
Mary Ola Reynolds Miller Palm Preserve Pollinator and Wildlife Garden
Panama City, Florida
Sweetbay Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society
Pollinator and Wildlife Demonstration Category
The Sweetbay Chapter has transformed a 1/3-acre parcel in the heart of downtown Panama City into a vibrant native plant oasis. The Mary Ola Reynolds Miller Palm Preserve now stands as a testament to the power of native plants to enrich urban environments. With its diverse array of around 70 native palms, bald cypress, oaks, and 125 different native plant species, this little public garden offers a refreshing escape amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.
Coastal Oasis
Lake Worth Beach, Florida
Benjamin Burle and Debra Yates
Residential Landscaping Category
The transformation of this private residence into an authentic representation of the natural coastal Florida landscape is truly impressive. The thoughtful design and meticulous selection of native plants have created a sophisticated and ecologically significant garden that beautifully reflects the essence of coastal Florida. The successful integration of stylish design elements with rare coastal natives is a testament to the studio's expertise and dedication.
Kostenbauder Residence
Sanford, Florida
Molly Kostenbauder
Residential Landscaping Category
The project has beautifully transformed a traditional lawn in the City of Sanford into a serene and dynamic garden that enhances the view from both the street and the home. The thoughtful design, incorporating grasses and plants that sway in the breeze, has created a calming and visually appealing landscape that evolves through the seasons.
Pethe Residential Florida Native Landscape
St. Petersburg, Florida
Craig Pethe
Residential Landscaping Category
Craig's dedication to replacing non-native plants with Florida natives at his current residence, as well as his previous home in St. Petersburg, reflects a deep commitment to enhancing the local environment. His proactive approach, building on his previous experience with native plants, has resulted in a vibrant, sustainable garden that not only enhances the visual appeal of the property but also supports local wildlife and promotes environmental health. His efforts serve as an inspiring example of how thoughtful landscaping can contribute positively to both aesthetics and ecology.
Arnie and Gabi's Garden
St. Petersburg, Florida
Arnold Rutkis
Residential Landscaping Category
Their garden in the Woodlawn Oaks neighborhood of St. Petersburg, Florida, is a testament to the creativity and dedication that both Arnold and Gabriela have brought to their landscape. Transforming a space that once held nothing but Bidens alba and a few weeds into a flourishing garden is an inspiring achievement.
Powell Property
Brandon, Florida
Johanna Powell
Residential Landscaping Category
Johanna's dedication to transforming the 1/3-acre lot behind her house in Brandon into a thriving Florida native meadow/hammock is truly impressive. Since doubling her property size in 2018 and undertaking this project, she has created a remarkable native ecosystem that exemplifies a sustainable and environmentally friendly landscape.