2025 ASLA Annual Conference in NOLA
The 2025 ASLA Annual Conference is underway in New Orleans this week! Here’s where TBG is involved throughout the event:
Thursday, October 9th | ASLA Student Sketch Walk
Led by: Megan Lowry
Grab your sketchbook and hop on the historic St. Charles streetcar as we head into the heart of the Garden District – one of New Orleans’ most elegant and storied neighborhoods.
Known for its grand antebellum mansions and oak-lined streets, the Garden District is a showcase of Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian architecture. However, this sketch walk is much more than just drawing buildings. As we stroll, we’ll slow down, observe, and sketch the details that bring this place to life – the twist of a wrought-iron gate, the texture of old brick, the dappled light beneath a balcony, or the contrast of lush gardens against painted shutters. Inspiration is everywhere.
We’ll visit iconic stops including famed Magazine Street, soaking in the creative energy of local shops, galleries, and cafés – an ideal setting to relax, sketch, or simply observe. Bring your favorite tools and your curiosity. This is not just a tour – it’s an artistic adventure of culture and beauty.
Friday, October 10th | Speak Up & Sound Smart: Effective Communication Strategies for Landscape Architects
Speakers:
Elaine Kearney, TBG Partners
Chelsey Rives, Founder of Volcano Heart
How much is poor communication costing you? Brilliant ideas mean nothing if they aren’t heard. Many landscape architects hesitate to speak up, losing opportunities. This session provides strategies to manage nerves and communicate confidently. This isn’t theory—it’s hands-on coaching to help you Keep Cool, Speak Up, and Sound Smart.
Saturday, October 11th | Landscape Architecture Industry Insights: 2025 and Beyond
Speakers:
Bill Odle, President of TBG Partners
Jeff Hébert, CEO of HR&A Advisors
Alexa Bush, Director of City of Detroit Planning & Development Dept.
Torey Carter-Conneen, CEO of ASLA
What is the current state of the landscape architecture industry—and where is it headed? Building on findings from ASLA’s 2024 Industry Report, this session brings together leaders from practice, planning, and consulting to explore economic, environmental, and organizational forces shaping the profession. Guided by ASLA’s CEO, the discussion will highlight both challenges and opportunities, offering insights into how practitioners can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing industry.
We’re looking forward to engaging discussions and the opportunity to learn from and connect with fellow landscape architects and allied professionals at this year’s conference. See you there!
Sketch of the historic St. Charles Avenue Streetcar by Megan Lowry