The Master Plan
In 2014, Botanica and the architectural design firm, Perkins & Will, created the conceptual design of the Waterfront Botanical Gardens. The team studied the site in detail, worked to understand how our site relates to adjacent neighborhoods, and listened to Botanica members and community stakeholders to understand what we hope the gardens will be – all to ensure the best possible Master Plan.
The plans shared for future phases of Waterfront Botanical Gardens represent a vision for what is possible. Designs, features, and timelines are subject to change and will evolve based on fundraising progress, stakeholder input, and organizational needs.
Site Plan
Phase 1A | Complete
EDUCATION LEADS THE WAY
The Graeser Family Education Center is the first completed building on the site, and opened in October 2019.
This early phase also includes the Helen Harrigan Garden, Mary Lee Duthie Garden, educational gardens around the building, the evergreen tapestry, entry gardens, and driveway.
Phase 1B | Complete
OUTDOOR EDUCATION GARDENS
Featuring the plaza surrounding the Graeser Family Education Center, Edible Garden Planters, Water Wall, Native Gardens, Pollinator Gardens and “Capriccio” sculpture.
Completed in 2020 were the Rounsavall Family Foundation Plaza Fountain and the Beargrass Creek Pathway with a waterfall stream.
Phase 1C | Complete
THE GARDEN EXPANSION
Phase 1C includes the Ellen T. Leslie Botanical Classrooms, opened in 2021. This 6,000 square foot building is the center of Youth Education in Phase 1, and complements the larger space provided by the Graeser Family Education Center. This building features the Etscorn Foundation Teaching Greenhouse, an educational display area, the Frances Newman Alden Learning Center, the Samtec Cares Courtyard, and the F.J. Foundation Horticulture Workshop. An art installation entitled “Synthesis” by Brook Forrest White, Jr. is displayed on the front of the building.
Phase 2A | The Garden Expansion Continues
The planned focus of Phase 2A is the development of the Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, Joe and Debbie Graviss Bonsai House, Tree Allée, and Beargrass Creek Overlook.
Our Bonsai House and Bonsai Display Garden will house our ever-growing collection of over 30 bonsai trees, and allow space for them to be cared for and curated, as well as stored for dormancy.
A tree allée of 24 American Dream Swamp White Oak trees will lead to the Overlook which has a beautiful view of Beargrass Creek.
Phase 2B | The Japanese Garden
Phase 2B envisions the completion of the Japanese Garden. Designed by Nakane & Associates of Kyoto, Japan, this two-acre garden will bridge cultures and nurture harmony. Traditional Japanese gardens do not fight the passage of time, but celebrate the effects of time on nature. They are ever-changing and evolving—designed for longevity and attended to with rigorous intention and discipline.
As with all future phases of Waterfront Botanical Gardens, designs for Phase 2B are conceptual and will continue to evolve based on stakeholder input, environmental considerations, and fundraising progress.
Phase 3A | Welcome
Phase 3A focuses on creating the primary arrival experience to Waterfront Botanical Gardens. Plans for this phase include the Visitors Center and Entry Garden. Each potential feature is envisioned to orient, inspire, and welcome guests.
Phase 3b | The Garden Grows
Phase 3B represents a significant expansion of outdoor garden experiences, building upon earlier phases to deepen engagement for visitors of all ages. This phase includes several major garden areas, with concepts that will continue to evolve.
Phase 4 | Conservatory
The final phase of our Master Plan envisions the creation of a Conservatory – what will surely become the crown jewel of the Waterfront Botanical Gardens.
