The Rewards of Stewardship Projects

By Richard W Gibney RLA

Daphne Garden – Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park: The Daphne Garden at Planting Fields Arboretum is part of the Synoptic Garden that displays plants for public education.

 

Gibney Design Landscape Architecture PC has been fortunate to maintain a busy practice over the past 25 years despite economic variability. Their attention to quality, value and durability has led to a continuous source of referrals. Pro bono projects have been a special part of the firm’s repertoire. They require a commitment and devotion that is rewarded by the project and the people involved. The real challenge comes in working the pro bono projects into a busy schedule.

Eagle Scout Xeriscape Garden – Manhasset, New York: Mr. Gibney provided horticultural and layout assistance for this educational garden that was conceived and designed by Chris Johnston on his way to an Eagle Scout badge.

GDLAPC provided pro bono services for the design and development of the Babies’ and Children’s Memorial Garden at Stony Brook Hospital on Long Island. This garden was started in 1999 and later threatened by new construction. It was moved to a new location with Mr. Gibney’s help. It is the site of an annual memorial service attended by hundreds in honor of young people that have passed on much too early in life. Conceived by Dr. Kathy Southerton and the Hospital’s Bereavement Committee, this project provides strength to grieving parents through the central boulder/plaque, colorful benches and engraved bricks memorializing their loss.

Babies’ and Children’s Memorial Garden – Stony Brook, NY: This garden provides a peaceful respite for visitors while honoring the memory of the young children whose names appear on the brick path. Images courtesy of RW Gibney RLA

As a decade long member of the board of trustees at Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay, Long Island – Richard Gibney has been able to provide design services to propel ideas into reality when funding was a challenge. The Daphne Garden, Italian Garden, Visitor’s Center Courtyard and proposed Sensory Garden are all products of his firm’s benevolent efforts. Future plans include an Enabling Garden and a major parking renovation.

GDLAPC recently consulted with a BSA eagle scout in designing and installing a xeriscape garden providing horticultural education to the Manhasset, Long Island community.

Richard W Gibney is a NYS registered landscape architect and ISA certified arborist. He has served as president of the New York Chapter ASLA, the New York State Council of Landscape Architects and the Design Professionals Coalition of Long Island. GDLAPC is an approved LA CES continuing education provider. You can visit their website at www.gibneydesigngroup.com.