"Evolving Intentions: Dynamic Preservation in Designed Historic Landscapes," BFS Annual Lecture with Thomas Woltz, Saturday, August 2 at 4:00 PM at Holy Family Chapel, Seal Harbor

In the words of Charles Birnbaum, CEO of The Cultural Landscape Foundation, “Landscape preservation is all about managing change in an evolving world.” The design process for the transformation of historic gardens and landscapes to adapt to 21st century demands of climate resilience, universal accessibility, and expanding public visitation will be discussed. Woltz, Senior Principal of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects (NBW), will illustrate contemporary design opportunities in landscape preservation through case studies from NBW’s portfolio, including Frederic Church’s Olana, Filoli, and Mount Cuba Center. He will also highlight projects restoring Beatrix Farrand landscapes, such as Edith Wharton’s The Mount and Dumbarton Oaks Fellow’s Housing.  The presentation will feature a preview of the firm’s 2025 monograph, The Land is Full, that presents 12 recent public parks and gardens designed by NBW in the US and Canada.

Woltz leads NBW in revitalizing public landscapes at the intersection of culture and ecology. His collaborative approach integrates scientists and historians, uncovering lost histories through designs for urban parks, post-industrial sites, and campuses. NBW’s work spans 30 states and 12 countries.. He is a Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects and has received numerous accolades, including Design Innovator of the Year by Wall Street Journal Magazine. Woltz is the 2018 recipient of the Beatrix Farrand Society Achievement Award and the firm has worked on four Beatrix Farrand landscapes.