May 1, 2025 - Associate principal Ann Weiland was recently interviewed for ASLA's Voice of Women in Landscape Architecture series. The series spotlights the talented women shaping the future of the profession and it is an honor to be included. Congratulations Ann!
You can check out the profiles of the other inspiring women landscape architects by clicking here: Voices of Women in Landscape Architecture, Part 21.
What inspired you to pursue a career in landscape architecture?
I had rejected the idea of pursuing a career in a design field early on in my undergrad years. During my first two years of college, I had been studying art in western PA but decided a career in art was not my path. Horticulture, though, was a perfect fit. I loved plants, the science, working outdoors, and the practice of getting my hands dirty. My intent was to build a career in horticultural science. It wasn’t until I took a landscape design elective course during my last semester that I admitted I also loved design. After graduating, I took a job working as head gardener on a private estate where the owner’s hobby was building gardens. Most mornings during the work week, I would get the maintenance crews set up for the day and then lead the construction crew in plant layouts. I didn’t know what I was doing, but I knew it was what I wanted to be doing. That experience confirmed I should go back to school to study landscape architecture.
Who are the female role models who have influenced your career?
Those that have been supportive, respectful, encouraging, patient, thoughtful, kind, and uplifting. Those that lead by example showing passion, drive, pride in their work, strength, confidence, a sense of humor, and compassion. These women are my family, coworkers, and friends and I’m grateful for their influence.
What advice do you have for other women pursuing a career in landscape architecture?
Get your hands dirty and gain some practical experience in constructing landscapes. Physical knowledge of how something is made will make every line you draw in the office that much more meaningful and will answer the “why” something is done the way it is.
Can you share with us a project you are particularly proud of and why?
I find the most satisfaction in the public gardens I’ve worked on while at Hoerr Schaudt including POST Houston, The Meadow @ Old Chicago Post Office, Hermann Park’s McGovern Centennial Gardens, and National Landing Water Park. Seeing people enjoy and use these spaces we create is very rewarding. Those that had nothing to do with the development of a project provide the most honest feedback on a design.
My focus at Hoerr Schaudt is on planting design; I’m proud of any garden that attracts wildlife. Animals using a landscape is the marker of success for me.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Wallow in discontent. Don’t subscribe to the club everyone told you to join.