I visited the Denver offices of EDAW yesterday for research on a feature that I’m writing. EDAW is a large and growing landscape architecture, planning and environmental consulting firm, with offices throughout the world.
I had met representatives of the company at the APA event and was very intrigued by the projects that they’re involved in, and the approach that they take to the planning process. The description on the company’s website says a lot about their focus and expertise, and ties into a lot of the philosophies that are driving us at Vector1 Media:
“For more than 65 years, EDAW’s collaborative approach to landscape architecture, planning/urban design, environmental planning, and economic, social, and cultural services has shaped sustainable environments across the globe. Our clients come to us with land- and community-based challenges at a variety of scales — from a small vernal pool to a million acres. At each level, EDAW’s approach encourages appropriate use of resources and enhances the environment.”
I should think that Ian McHarg could have written this statement as a business plan, and I was pleased to see that they put these thoughts into action. The approach is obviously resonating as the organization now has 1,350 professionals in 30 offices worldwide. The whole Denver facility was buzzing with work. I specifically visited someone in the landscape architecture group, but I got a tour of the GIS group and walked through planning and saw where the biologists work. I also saw full-capacity conference rooms, and what appeared to be a delegation from Japan.
The London office of EDAW is designing the master plan for the London Thames Gateway, a redevelopment effort in East London that will be the site of the 2012 Olympics. They’re involved in a large number of Base Realignment and Closures (BRAC) projects. And, the Denver office is involved in environmental planning for Stapleton, where I live. I’m greatly impressed by the types of projects that require EDAW’s services, and the quality of the work that they do.
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
EDAW is a firm with a long history and a great reputation. I’m glad to hear they’re still working to their own high standards.