Public Projects
Outdoor Classroom
High School Park
Setting
Friends of High School Park developed this outdoor classroom just steps from the Tookany Creek in Elkins Park, PA. The classroom will serve as a public gathering space for learning about wetland ecology, watershed health, and the importance of clean water.
My project management included site selection, conceptual planning, material sourcing, planting design, layout, and installation coordination.
Completed as part of my role with Friends of High School Park. Featured with permission from the organization.
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The design takes advantage of close creek access, existing woodland canopy, and views into the surrounding park. Salvaged logs, wood chips, and simple seating define the classroom while keeping the space informal, durable, and rooted in the site. Improvements include seating, signage, wetland demonstration plantings, and stumpery habitat.
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Moisture-adapted sedges, rushes, ferns, and native perennials form the planting framework for the demonstration box and stumpery..
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The result will be a public learning space that connects visitors to the Tookany Creek watershed and supports future creek restoration efforts.
selected images
process
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![Backyard patio area with stone staircase leading to upper deck, black mulch garden beds, a small brick pillar, and various construction materials.]()
Existing conditions
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![A technical planting plan map showing various plant species, including Little Bluestem, Karl Forester, Creeping Juniper, and Candytuft, with their respective images and labels. The plan indicates a mixed-border area near an existing driveway.]()
Conceptual plan
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![Landscape design plan showing existing structures, walkways, and plantings with labeled plant types and a small section detailing design features such as tasteful beautification, four-season interest, native plants, and screening.]()
Teaching lectern
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Reclaimed building materials
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Reclaimed materials detail
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Site construction
