Connect, protect, restore
Blending her design education with influences from ecology and evolutionary biology, Rachel Martino is on her way to design landscapes that connect, protect and restore. As this year’s distinguished graduate in landscape architecture, Martino reflects on what she considers to be one of the biggest lessons from her time at ENVD.
“I think that the greatest lesson ENVD taught me is how to visualize a better world and then develop innovative and well-researched solutions to make that world a reality,” she shared.
In the moment
Reminiscing about the past four years brings back fond memories for Martino. One of her favorite memories is participating in a tree planting event hosted by the student chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). “I was able to help select trees, including a Ginkgo–one of my favorites–to be planted on the Wolf [Law Building] lawn,” she shared. Seeing the project through, from start to finish, is what stands out the most for her.
Considering the future and when it comes to advice for other students, Martino encourages her peers to embrace growth by exploring design outside their comfort zone. “You will get what you put in,” she said. “One thing I wish I knew in the beginning is that the only way to grow as a student and a designer is to push yourself beyond what you are capable of.”
Designing for resilience
Martino is especially proud of her design proposal for her senior capstone project. Titled Reclaiming the Floodplain: Creating a New Ecological Edge at the Gateway to Boulder, the design site is located in CU Boulder South and addresses the issue of flooding in the area.
“I focus on expanding the South Boulder Creek floodplain to inundate a series of constructed wetlands, while a berm and a floodwall help protect nearby residents from extreme flood events,” she said.
Graduation and beyond
Martino describes graduating as a culmination of effort and perseverance. “It also represents all the wonderful love and encouragement that I have received from family and friends,” she shared. “I am so thankful for their support.”
After graduation, Martino will pursue a career in landscape architecture. She is confident in her degree and the experience she’ll carry with her into the real world.
“I can’t tell you where I'll be in six months, but ENVD has prepared me to be adaptable and take advantage of opportunities,” she said.