Meet Mackenzie
We sat down with Mackenzie to get to know her better. Read the interview below.
What attracted you to the profession of Landscape Architecture?
I came to Landscape Architecture with a love for creating art and an appreciation for our environment. However, what truly inspired me to stay is the ubiquitous nature of Landscape. Landscape is everything; it is the very fabric that we all exist within. The landscape does not exist around any given built object (e.g., a home, a school, a memorial, a restaurant, a playground.) Instead, that built object exists as a point within the landscape. I became deeply enamored with the prospect of positively affecting this landscape fabric that connects every single person. Through landscape architecture, I have taken the opportunity to create beautiful places that bring people together, and that brings me so much joy.
What’s your favorite plant material?
It is so difficult to choose a favorite plant material (it’s like choosing a favorite child.) I am very impressed by the way plants interact with each other. They can communicate in ways we are only beginning to understand. I am completely enchanted by the way plants change through the seasons, so I can briefly speak to one favorite plant from each season (from this past year.)
Spring: Magnolia
Summer: Oakleaf hydrangeas
Fall: Goldenrod
Winter: Witchhazel
What is your favorite open space to visit?
My most recent favorite open space to visit is Storm King Art Center. It is a 500-acre outdoor sculpture park in Orange County, New York. Storm King beautifully illustrates the power of built objects in the Landscape by displaying these large sculptural pieces in the stunning hills and forests on the property. The landscape itself is so thoughtful and deliberate, and it is only made more beautiful by the art placed within it.
What is a must-have feature for a backyard entertaining space?
Every space (especially a backyard space) needs something that inspires people to gather. For me, two things come to mind immediately. The first is a beautiful tree that speaks to your heart. There is an old saying that goes, “The best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago, and the second best time is now.” I sincerely believe that trees are crucial to creating a welcoming space. The second must-have for me is a fire feature. It is undeniable that a fire draws people together; I think it’s written into our DNA.
