MNLA, New York City, New York

 
Known for her thoughtful integration of community and ecology, Molly Bourne excels in crafting harmonious spaces that blend beauty, functionality, and environmental sensitivity while advancing the practice of landscape architecture. In 32 years of practice, she has championed the design of vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable public open spaces that enrich communities and nurture human connections, as well as integrate resiliency and climate adaptation. As principal at MNLA, Bourne's visionary approach to design demonstrates her deep technical expertise and ability to understand complex projects and work with clients, public agencies, and partner disciplines. She has successfully intertwined infrastructure, landscape, and urban fabric within complex projects, such as the Waterline Square brownfield transformation. Previously unused space, this award-winning 2.8-acre park showcases a robust design narrative reflective of the historic water flows that once existed in Manhattan. Her dedication to the South Bronx Greenway Master Plan has led to the nationally recognized Hunts Point Landing and Randall's Island Connector, and her vision balanced community amenities, new bicycle routes, improved lighting, and enhanced quality of life. Bourne's contributions to the East Side Coastal Resiliency (ESCR) project radically reimagined the interaction between humans and nature by weaving flood protection through, above, and below open space. The flood protection ties into the New York City grid, and offers separation from adjacent highways, tucks under and supports recreation courts and ballfields, and fortifies esplanades. Bourne is also committed to teaching aspiring Landscape Architects and integrating landscape architecture into mentorship programs.