CONTINUUM Landscape Architects

In January 2015 Michael White of Continuum Landscape Architects generously agreed to advise us on a PTA project to create a school garden. Not just a few beds for flowers and vegetables, but a dedicated outdoor space for educational use designed specifically to tie in with the elementary curriculum. Our committee had ideas from teachers and a concept design, but little idea how to get from paper to installation. Michael's expertise was invaluable. He addressed technical considerations and hardscape specifications, and estimated costs for materials and installation. Undeterred by our tiny budget, he provided beautiful plan and perspective drawings that helped us present our project to local landscape companies to solicit contributions of labor or materials. When at last we had the funding and other support to proceed, he essentially served as project manager, advising us frequently on materials, quantities, and work flow. In April 2015 Michael directed the hardscape installation work of a young team of Horticulture & Landscape students from the Minuteman High School, coming daily to mark out areas and make suggestions. His collaborative and encouraging manner throughout made the students feel like the experts! Michael was extraordinarily generous with his time. He attended two evening PTA meetings to present the garden project, and joined us for the Garden Classroom opening ceremony in June 2015 and a couple garden events at the school in the fall. We are extremely grateful for all of Michael's steadfast support, expertise, time, and enthusiasm. We could not have accomplished this ambitious school garden project without him. Harriet Wong & Laurie Bufano PTA Co-presidents 2015 Burbank Elementary School, Belmont, MA