Sunnylands Center & Gardens wins ASLA 2012 Professional Honor

Congratulations to the Office of James Burnett, whose work at the Sunnylands Center & Gardens has won a 2012 Professional Honor Award from the American Society of Landscape Architects. “OJB” created a new ecological aesthetic for southwestern landscapes with their wondrous design for this 15 acre site which brings to light the many beauties of the Sonoran desert.  Sunnylands is the historic desert retreat of the late Ambassador Walter and Mrs. Leonore Annenberg, where for many years they entertained world leaders in a tranquil, private oasis conducive to calm discussion and problem solving. Ambassador and Mrs. Annenberg were exceptional philanthropists who mobilized their energy and personal wealth to make a significant positive impact on their country and on the world. Their generosity spanned public education, the arts, medical research, community beautification and well-being, and the environment.  All of these interests intersect at the Sunnylands Visitors Center, the gateway to the famous estate which is reprising its role as venue for the resolution of important problems in the true Annenberg tradition.  Guided by Mrs. Annenberg’s love of art, the Office of James Burnett deliberately evokes a painterly sense in this unique 9-acre interpretive desert garden that expresses the beauty, color, form and texture of the Sonoran Desert.  OJB was publicly presented the award at the ASLA Annual Meeting on October 1, 2012. We are delighted that OJB has received such well earned recognition from this prestigious professional organization.