For Women’s History Month, we are introducing you to the amazing women on the Io LandArch design team. Get to know Sydney, landscape designer for both our community design and residential studios.
Sydney brings a unique blend of interpersonal finesse and design acumen to her role as a designer and project manager at Io LandArch. Having previously worked as a dental hygienist, Sydney has honed exceptional communication skills which seamlessly translate into her work within the realm of landscape architecture. With a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture, she merges her passion for design with her profound appreciation for nature, crafting captivating and inviting spaces. Across all project phases, often in a project management role, Sydney displays meticulous attention to detail and strong communication skills.
Why did you study landscape architecture?
I always loved plants, and much of my childhood was spent outside in my mom’s garden. I learned the names of many plants just from hearing my mom repeat them and talk about them. When I initially chose a career in dental hygiene, I didn’t realize how draining it would be to have a rinse and repeat type of career. However the work was not fulfilling the creativity and time outside in nature that I desired. When I built my first home, I enjoyed choosing materials, reworking layout, and planning the landscape. It caused the final spark I needed to change careers.
Sydney with some new plants!
How did you end up at Io LandArch? What about Io LandArch resonates particularly with you?
Io is based in Ogden, which is also the town I call home. I love seeing our work improve the place that I live in. Our projects also resonate because many of them relate to or are historic places and architecture. Enhancing and preserving these places is a worthwhile pursuit!
Tell me about the projects you’re most proud of and why. What was your role?
Our master plan for Lester Park, in the heart of Ogden, is probably my favorite project to date. I am proud of the work that we did on it. When the project is built, I believe it will have a major positive impact on the neighborhood. The project will be an asset to downtown Ogden as a whole.
Recently, Sydney worked on the Master Plan for Ogden’s Lester Park. As part of the discovery phase, the team observed daily activities in the park, documented above. Previously, Io LandArch also won at AIA design competition for Ogden’s Lester Park.
Across your professional work, what do you enjoy the most?
A lot of what I love about Landscape Architecture as a profession is the various roles and tasks we get to participate in. Some days I love to go out on site visits. Other days, I love the creating design concepts or 3D models, or choosing planting palettes.
For you, what is the most rewarding part of being a landscape architect?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is creating more beautiful places and improving people’s lives and wellbeing through them.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find a lot of inspiration by traveling to other cities and countries, and also being out in the natural landscape. Inspiration can be found anywhere you look.
Traveling to other countries and cities is a source of inspiration for Sydney.
If you could give one piece of advice to women considering pursuing a career in landscape architecture, what would it be?
I would say it is helpful to take an intro course, and to talk to landscape architects about their work. Also, interning with someone in the field already can help you get a clear picture of what a typical day looks like and if that is something that will work for you and your interests. It is a worthwhile field, but burnout is possible doing anything, even things you love, for a variety of reasons. Knowing more ahead of time and doing your research always helps.
Sydney (left) and Natalie (right) both lead projects in Io LandArch’s residential studio.
What is a creative project (inside or outside of work) that you are currently excited about?
I am currently working on planning my personal landscape at my home this year, and I’m excited about seeing it finished. No one would know I’m a landscape designer from looking at my house currently, but they will soon…
