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photo of Leach Botanical Garden Groundbreaking Ceremony

Leach Botanical Garden Groundbreaking Ceremony

2019/08/09

On August 1, Leach Botanical Garden in Portland, Oregon, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Upper Garden, the first phase of a major expansion. A variety of new and improved gardens and facilities will allow Leach Botanical Garden to serve more visitors and expand its programs while increasing access to all areas of the garden campus.

In collaboration with landscape architects Land Morphology, Olson Kundig developed a master plan for the Upper Garden, utilizing ecological and cultural transepts as a conceptual and spatial framework. The first phase of expansion is expected to be completed in summer 2020.

Land Morphology is leading the design of a series of new gardens, including an Alpine, Physic and Water Gardens with fen, bog and giant plants; Secret Garden; Children’s Garden and a Chroma Garden. The project also includes plans for an elevated tree canopy walk, pollinator gardens, an event lawn, fireplace, terrace and arbor. Future project phases will incorporate an Olson Kundig-designed complex of four buildings and terraces to include a welcome center, offices and gift shop, event center and partner offices.

The expanded Leach Botanical Garden will revitalize this treasured space in Portland’s east side. Expanded gardens, habitats and gathering spaces incorporate a deliberate emphasis on equitable access, ensuring that the entire community will be able to participate and enjoy everything the property has to offer. Kevin M. Kudo-King, AIA, LEED AP, Design Principal