McConnell Arboretum and Botanical Gardens | Master Plan

Turtle Bay engaged 3. Fromme Design and HDLA to collaborate with their multidisciplinary and interdepartmental team on envisioning a renewal to the decades-old McConnell Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Major considerations included: generating a renewed and relevant conceptual and physical site framework; identifying marquee display gardens; creating revenue generating opportunities and facilities; and clarifying circulation systems. A guiding ethos was maintaining and strengthening the unique sense of place as a Northern California Mediterranean climate demonstration and display garden with unique horticultural collections and possibilities. The Master Plan also focused on augmenting the integration of the Gardens with the rest of Turtle Bay Exploration Park's offerings (Museum, iconic Sundial Bridge, hotel, et al.). 

Master Planning determined realistic phasing possibilities based on a detailed opinion of probable cost the Planning Team assembled. PSL Consultants developed an Operations Plan concurrently with the master site plan to assist the Gardens in understanding future staffing needs and considering revenue generating seasonal display opportunities, among other topics.  

The Board accepted the final Master Plan in 2021 as a living document delineating the Gardens' future.