Inspired by the works of Argentina-born artist, Julio Le Parc, the garden evokes a whimsical experience of journey and discovery much like his kinetic and colorful artwork. There was a great opportunity for the garden to celebrate the vibrant and diverse culture of Latin America. Whimsical forms create a sense of discovery and surprise as visitors of the Museum journey through the garden learning about the rare Latin American Plants on display.

In order for the garden to showcase its bloom and growing foliage throughout the seasons, plants from two distinct climates were paired together – Mediterranean Climate Plants | summer dry (plants from Baja and Chile) and Sub-tropical Plants | winter dry (plants from sub-tropical Mexico and South America). This concept is called the Dual Climate Concept. When one species is dormant, another is thriving, and then vice versa in the next season.

The beautiful meandering forms in the garden allow for a sense of journey and discovery. The garden is also a venue for monthly outdoor art workshops, bringing students, museum visitors, and the neighborhood together. The transformation has brightened the neighborhood for the adjacent apartment residents who enjoy the garden as if it was their own backyard. In addition to its abundant plant life, the garden has restored poor soil conditions and has become a wildlife habitat for numerous species of local insects and birds.

This project was a collaborative effort. The landscape architects teamed with local horticulturalist, Jonathan Froines and his unique knowledge of Latin American flora to create a thoughtful and diverse plant palette. A specialized landscape contractor amended the site soil and installed the stabilized D.G. path, plants, lighting, and gravel mulch.

The MOLAA Botanical Garden celebrates the rich Latin American plant culture and provides new habitats and resources for local birds, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Thus, introducing more nature in a highly urban and commercial area. The garden is also an example of a shared landscape as it provides views of nature to the adjacent apartment where tenants are able to come out to their balconies and enjoy views of the beautiful and dynamic garden.