LAN students from the Academy of Art University recently made waves at the 2024 San Francisco Flower and Garden Show. Despite competing against seasoned landscape architects, the LAN students were honored with the Bronze Medal and the APLD Award for their innovative design. Their garden exhibit offered visitors a mesmerizing journey through a woodland paradise, celebrating California’s new State Mushroom, the Golden Chanterelle, and its relationship with Coast Live Oaks.
Christine Gonzales, leader of the LAN student team, reflected on the project’s journey, which began with a quick turnaround from an informational meeting in January to construction in March. The team, dispersed across different locations, utilized online platforms like Zoom, Discord, and Miro for collaborative design sessions, demonstrating their adaptability and determination.
Construction was no walk in the park, with challenges such as the fabrication of intricate mushroom sculptures using a CNC machine. However, the LAN students showed remarkable resilience and with the support of sponsors like Lakeside Nursery, they overcame these obstacles and successfully installed the exhibit just days before the show.
Winning both the Bronze Medal and the APLD Award pleasantly surprised the LAN students, who initially aimed to showcase their best work rather than expecting accolades. Gonzales emphasized the significance of being the only student submission among seasoned architects, underscoring the competitiveness and quality of their design.
The LAN students’ success can be attributed to effective communication, teamwork, and a solid conceptual framework, which enabled them to navigate unfamiliar challenges and deliver a remarkable exhibit. Their achievements highlight their talent and creativity and serve as a testament to the Academy of Art University’s commitment to fostering excellence in landscape architecture & design.
