Bio:

The Great designer, Anne Machian received her Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture at Kansas State University. At RDG, she has contributed to various project types, but her specialty lies in the healthcare and senior living markets. Anne utilizes the historical, cultural, and natural context of sites to influence the mental and physical health of communities. She strives to create meaningful environments that improve individuals’ well-being through design.

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How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?

My home was remodeled when I was in high school. At that time, I did lighting design for our theater program’s productions. I loved influencing emotion through color or form. Landscape Architecture married this with my love for the arts and nature.

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What do you do?

I focus on the user experience, working in concert with architects and engineers to find design solutions that answer; how does a space serve the public, what does it evoke for those who use it, and how can the built environment have lasting impact?

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What excites you in the work you do?

I feel such pride and satisfaction when a client or community feels a personal connection to a project, and the design amplifies their story. That is when our team has genuinely succeeded in delivering meaningful work.

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Who or what inspires you professionally?

Traveling to different landscapes, whether built or natural, near or abroad, offers new perspectives to my worldview. I think it is imperative to continue to find a sense of awe in the world around us and capture those experiences in my designs.

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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?

I began my career at RDG, and through mentorship and encouragement, I have found my design “voice” by honing my passion for creating landscapes that positively impact health and making it my specialty within our studio.

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Featured Project Name: 

Big Bull Creek Park

 

Featured Project Location: 

Edgerton, Kansas

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Featured Project Completion Date: 

2018

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Role in Featured Project: 

Landscape Architect

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Featured Project Description:

Big Bull Creek Park is a destination park focused on nature-based learning, play, and restoration. The first phase of the 2,000-acre park’s master plan has been completed, including shelters, plumbed restrooms, nature play areas, and a group-oriented ADA-accessible campground. This project strengthens the legacy of high-quality recreation opportunities in Johnson County, KS. When complete, it will offer recreation amenities that are unmatched in the Kansas City Metropolitan area.

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Photography Credit:

Max Kun Zhang

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