idea lab 2022: introduction

As landscape architects we are compelled to protect the planet and push beyond what is presently known, striving for the most innovative and forward-facing approaches. TBG holds inquisitiveness as a core value and encourages our people to explore their individual passions and interests.

One way the firm fosters this culture of exploration is through Idea Lab — a structured fellowship that allows participants from every office to explore a topic of their choosing, relating to TBG’s work. The process consists of tailored mentorship and guidance, with leadership coach Ellyn Wulfe, JD, and firm-wide support. Overall, promising ideas are cultivated and accelerated, and we grow more confident in our role of creating positive change.

The TBG cohorts are in the early stages of this process and have recently begun working with Wulfe to conceptualize and narrow down their ideas. Wulfe is helping the teams form clear, concise, and objective plans of action.

exterior design 

Adrianne Kartachak and Chris Jackson are looking at exterior design and how landscape architects can become involved in this realm and bring magic to a site. Throughout Idea Lab, they hope to better understand the training and problem-solving process of interior designers and architects. The team hypothesizes that their workflow is much different as landscape architects but hope to synthesize the two flows.

material sustainability & durability

Ian Dippo and Eric Stranghoner‘s Idea Lab topic is the study of material sustainability in terms of durability and reusability. Stranghoner is focusing on the use of durable materials for longevity, while Dippo’s focus is how parts of a project once made to last can be reused and reimagined. They expect the connection to labor and contractor relationship to play a large role in their discovery.

model-making in the studio

Hythus Hu and Megan Daniel‘s  are exploring how model-making can be more efficiently incorporated into the studio as a design communication tool. They believe model-making can and should be integrating into design collaboration with the client and want to use more “old school” methods in hopes to disconnect work from technology and break down communication barriers. The team will observe and discuss methods with other firms who use model-making in this way and take a page out of their book.

native plant usage

The only solo creative, Haley Powell is looking into facilitating partnerships with plant nurseries to encourage native tree usage on projects. She wants to educate landscape architects on native horticulture and increase awareness on the topic because it’s not commonly taught, she says, and there are common misconceptions. All in all, Powell wants to create supply and demand for native trees.