Project Overview
The landscape architects at raSmith are collaborating with The Kubala Washatko Architects (TKWA), Findorff, and REI Engineering on the site design and landscape at the Monk Botanical Gardens in Wausau, Wisconsin. Officially incorporated as a nonprofit institution in 2003, the Monk Botanical Gardens features curated gardens, natural areas, special events, and environmental education to benefit the community.
In 2021, a master plan was developed to explore a proposed new visitor center. As a result, the design team was engaged to prepare a two-phase plan for the site. The funding was raised for Phase 1 and includes a new entry drive and gateway, ticket booth building, new parking lot, native landscape, and an English garden. All proposed plantings and seed mixes were selected with the Monk Botanical Gardens staff, who will be responsible for the care and maintenance of the new landscape and gardens.
The English garden includes traditional masonry brick walls, formal hedges, a knot garden, a fountain, urns on pedestals, brick paver walkways, and an internal lawn area surrounded by bold, dramatic perennial gardens. This space will be used for outdoor events such as weddings and parties.
Phase 1 is scheduled to begin in summer 2024. Phase 2 will include the construction of the new visitor center, updated trails, and a future outdoor amphitheater. Phase 2 will begin once the funding has been secured for the new visitor center.
Gardens entry rendering courtesy of TKWA.
Project Gallery
