As part of a technical assistance effort initiated by the National Parks of Boston, the Commandant’s House front garden was identified as a point of interest in need of rebuilding. Spurred by the park’s interest in revitalizing this landscape to address maintenance concerns and improve the visitor experience, the project involved collaboration among Boston National Historical Park, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, and youth programs of the Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation who would be installing the planting, In addition to designing the new planting, I facilitated meetings with stakeholders and met regularly with members of Branching Out, the youth program to teach them about the history of the landscape, as well as how to install plantings based on a construction document.
undated
ca. 1970s
2016: Before replanting
2018: Newly planted front walk after one year
Historically, the grounds around the Commandant’s House were well-manicured with shade and fruit trees, ornamental shrubs, flowers, and a vegetable garden. The lawn and garden were used for entertainment up until the 1970’s. The house stands on a gentle rise, from which the Commandant would have had an open view into Boston Harbor.
The new design returns the grounds to a formal, regimented garden which could support Park events and entertainment. Main goals were focused on longevity of plantings, ease of maintenance, historical precedence, and restoration of views and vistas.