Introduction
Historic Overview
Existing Conditions
Assesment and Analysis
Preservation Philosophy
Implementation and Management
Outreach and Education
Summary
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Historic Overview & Documentation


The success of this project was almost guaranteed from the outset by the willingness of Wake Forest University (WFU) to follow the recommendations of the historical landscape architects. WFU recognized the uniqueness of this undertaking and retained a team of design professions skilled in addressing historic landscape issues. As difficult issues arose, WFU was receptive to doing what was deemed 'best' for the historic character of the garden. Budget was always important, but was not the only consideration in decision-making.

During the development of the cultural landscape report, the project landscape architects benefited from a National Park Service educational offering, "A Forum on Vegetative Management for Historic Sites," offered at Arnold Arboretum in Boston in August 1995. The day-long series of speakers provided helpful insight used in guiding this project. From this workshop, the following summary points were incorporated in the Reynolda Gardens rehabilitation project:

Evaluate the original design intent within the context of today's landscape;

  • All vegetation has a life span, decline and replacement is inevitable; the replacement plant material determines the level of authenticity;

  • Historic vegetation is fragile and vulnerable;

  • Utilize the knowledge of the garden staff; collaboration results in support for the project; and

  • Recognize the realities of maintenance.

The original intent by designers Miller, Buckenham, and Sears, and designer/owner, Katharine Smith Reynolds was immediately recognized in the project. The desire of Sears and KSR was for an open spacious landscape with views framed by strategically placed vegetation and axial pathways was lost in the overgrown vegetation and the deteriorated condition of many of the original plantings. Vegetation management was a top priority.

 
 
 
  Top: Japanese Cedars at project onset-overgrown and in decline. Center: Declining cedars removed-note sign in center which interpreted project work for the public. Bottom: Rotting and diseased cedar stumps.

Replacement of historic vegetation was the most difficult decision to make. Removal of the Japanese cedar allée was a controversial action, but was somewhat tempered by the successful propagation of the original plants. The propagated plants have performed exceptionally well and were returned to the garden in early 2000, several years ahead of schedule.

The application of new technologies has been successful. The polypropylene mesh subsurface treatment worked. The grassed pathways, except in a few shady spots, show little signs of wear from the heavy pedestrian traffic. The roots of the Bermuda grass extend over a foot below surface, illustrating the healthy condition of the turf. The moisture problems associated with the retaining walls have disappeared. The outer surface shows no signs of scaling or peeling. The barrier free ramp has been deemed almost too successful. It is so unobtrusive that visitors can't find it and when they do, they are sometimes reluctant to walk on the grass. Strategic signage is now being used to direct people to the ramp.

The gardens' staff was a major partner to the designers in all phases of the project. They assisted in the development of the plan's recommendations, particularly in identifying maintenance implications in various design options, and implementing many of the plan's recommendations. The completed plan has been well received by the garden staff, university, and local community as well as numerous out-of-state and out-of-country visitors. The gardens, which provide for both passive use and organized programs, welcome over 100,000 visitors yearly twenty-four hours a day free of charge.

Reynolda House and the gardens were featured on television in the American Castles series titled, "Gardens and Galleries." This exposure continues to attract visitors with an increase in visitation, observed by staff, each time the show is aired. Reynolda Gardens has apparently 'recovered' from the 'stress' of project implementation. Garden staff found it humorous that current visitors, particularly garden-focused groups, don't believe the garden has been recently rehabilitated. The garden's curator of education says she frequently has to provide photographs of the construction work to prove the point.

Currents

 


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