Client:

Ball Horticultural Company

Architect:

David Woodhouse Architects

Contractor:

Clauss Brothers, Inc.

Consultant:

Midwest Fence

Category:

Commercial Design

Ball Horticultural Company is internationally recognized for research and production of ornamental crops. The company planned to celebrate its centennial, yet its trial-and-display gardens located in West Chicago had become dated, and the Victorian-style bedding did little to distinguish Ball from competitors. Ball approached the landscape architect to give the space a lift. Instead, the 7-acre plot was completely redone into the new Gardens at Ball, a dynamic destination garden for all four seasons.

The structural "bones" of the garden create a series of unfolding views that encourage exploration between garden types. A central, 15-foot-high mound creates a drama by offering a vantage point for views of various planting conditions. A series of 12-foot high “sky frames” hung with removable baskets of annuals become a focal point as one moves into the garden. Large, dynamic lawn shapes offer visual “resting places.” The garden also includes fixed beds with display designs that are altered each year, giving the client flexibility and visitors a reason to return. Ball’s customers appreciate the new ideas; last year the company welcomed 75 percent more visitors than the previous year.