Using the “gallery concept,” the Garden has organized and connected displays and collections into meaningful, unified stories that communicate our message to visitors. Each “gallery” has been designed to focus on one segment of the plant collection, by aesthetic and educational interest, through design and diversity. The Sybil B. Harrington Cactus & Succulent Galleries and the Entry Gallery are the first of the new galleries to be installed as part of the Tending the Garden Campaign.
Award Winning Local Landscape Architect to Design Galleries
When the time came to begin the process of replacing the aging Cactus and Succulent Houses, the Garden turned to Steve Martino & Associates for some new ideas. Since Martino’s projects are known for introducing new technical innovations in design and horticulture practices, his final plans will reflect not only his vision, but also the needs of those who support and care about the Garden.
Built in the middle of the last century, these structures have served the plants well. However, they have become worn and were in dire need of replacement. The new Sybil B. Harrington Cactus & Succulent Galleries are at the same locations as the old structures, but have a new footprint and an attractive new design.
“Martino, with his exceptional design sense, will need to address the creative challenge of providing for the unique plant requirements in each of the galleries,” said Elaine McGinn, director of planning and exhibits for the Garden, “as well as creating a space that is compelling and comfortable for a variety of audiences.”
The old structures were closed to the public fall of 2007, as the Garden’s Horticulture staff began carefully removing the collection for safe-keeping. The new Cactus and Succulent Galleries opened to the public in the spring of 2008.
Martino’s pioneering work with native plant material, along with the development of a desert-derived design aesthetic, is widely recognized. This concept is illustrated in the new Herb Garden recently opened along the Garden’s Center for Desert Living Trail. A recurring theme of his work has been the dramatic juxtaposition of man-made elements with ecological processes.
Martino’s work has been featured in many magazines including Phoenix Home & Garden, Sunset, Smithsonian and Landscape Architect. His innovative spirit has earned him more than 100 local, regional and national design awards; including the American Society of Landscape Architects design medal in 2006, as well as the task of creating the new Cactus & Succulent Galleries.
Sybil B. Harrington Cactus & Succulent Galleries