The Jacksonville Arboretum and Botanical Garden selected the team of 3. Fromme Design and HDLA (Nashville, TN) to collaborate with Board and Staff on developing a transformative master plan for the property’s core. The project focused on 13.9 acres envisioned as a series of compelling gardens surrounding the existing lake. A crucial task included seamlessly connecting this core with a system of beloved, ecologically rich trails and a conservation site. The design team choreographed the visitor experience, identified garden themes, and clarified circulation. Other critical tasks included siting a visitor center, multipurpose building, and pavilions; expanding parking; and enhancing service and support facilities. The design team generated a detailed opinion of probable cost to guide phasing strategies and began to consider donor opportunities.

3. Fromme Design and HDLA began schematic design for the first priority project, the Children’s Garden, in 2023.