Lee Kennedy Co. is contractor for award winning garden project

The M. Victor and Frances Leventritt Garden at The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University is the recipient of the national award from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). The General Design Award of Excellence is based on the quality of design and execution, context, environmental sensitivity and sustainability, and design value to the client (Harvard University). Designed by the landscape architecture firm of Reed|Hilderbrand Associates, in collaboration with Maryann Thompson Architects, the garden's form was inspired by agricultural landscapes; features include linear planting beds, terrace walls constructed of New England fieldstone, and modular, steel trellis systems for growing and training vines. An open-air pavilion provides a gathering place and additional surfaces for flowering vines. Lee Kennedy Co., Inc. was the general contractor for this $2.5 million project which converted a 3.5-acre embankment into a terraced landscape to house the Arnold Arboretum's new Shrub and Vine Collection. Public walks, gathering space, and an outdoor classroom have all been integrated into the garden to share with the community. The team of designers, horticulturists, and educators are continuing to develop a working framework for ordering the collections to be planted. The collaboration of all participants has produced a set of guiding principles which will foster the growth of these dynamic living collections. Scott Giles, project manager from Lee Kennedy said, "I'm very proud to be part of such a talented team that was able to transform a small hillside at the edge of the Arboretum into such a profound and beautiful garden that the public and researchers can use and enjoy for many years to come." This project was also the recipient of the AIA New England Honor Award for Design Excellence