Jenny Burbidge (B.L.A. ’10) is the owner and principal landscape architect of Prism Design Studio LLC in Huntsville. Burbidge said that her career has been “love at first sight” and through all the transitions, her life right now is a dream come true.
When did you become interested in landscape architecture and design, and why?
I became acquainted with landscape architecture on Orientation Day. I was enrolled in the architecture program and, while watching the other departments’ presentations, became intrigued by this new design field I was unfamiliar with. Is there such a thing as “love at first sight” for career paths?
I switched majors from architecture to landscape architecture that day and held unwavering confidence in such a big decision. I had found the perfect alignment of art, creativity and expression in the professional world. It was new and exciting; even though I knew nothing about it, I couldn’t wait to learn more.
Why did you choose to go to the University of Arkansas and/or the Fay Jones School?
I was originally set on leaving Arkansas. Like most teenagers, I had the “anywhere but here” mindset, looking as far as Canada, to gain independence and fulfill the insatiable need for adventure.
I had been to many Razorbacks basketball games growing up, but that was the only part of campus I was familiar with, and it wasn’t the most desirable for my post-high school self. But, after spending an afternoon walking on campus, the Old Main Lawn and Arboretum stole my heart. This rich, luscious landscape brought forth a historic nostalgia for Arkansas I didn’t know I had. I spent many afternoons playing frisbee on that lawn for the next five years.
What has been your career path so far?
I graduated in the wake of the 2008 recession, and job opportunities were limited. I chose to stay close to home in Fort Smith and worked for an established architecture firm, Studio 6 (previously Guest Reddick Architects) for two years. Looking to get back to Northwest Arkansas, I relocated and worked on a national retail team at Harrison French and Associates (HFA) until 2012, when I transitioned to CEI Engineering until 2018, when I then joined Ecological Design Group. In the fall of 2022, I opened Prism Design Studio.
What has been your favorite project to work on?
There’s something special about those first projects in your career. I had the opportunity to design an outdoor café at Mercy Hospital in Fort Smith. The project included custom steel cantilevered trellises, brand-name site furniture and flagstone (later value engineered) — it was quite the project as a professional debut. Seeing your first project come to life is a feeling that cannot be replaced. My mother also worked at Mercy Hospital for 45 years and was able to enjoy the space before her retirement.
Likewise, my first project as Prism Design Studio might also be my favorite. The Outdoor Geology Learning Lab (GeoLab), located in the Gearhart Hall courtyard on the University of Arkansas campus, is sentimental for a few reasons. It was a landscape architecture only project, in collaboration with one of my former professors, Carl Smith, professor of landscape architecture. The focal point of the project includes specimen rocks dating back to 400-plus million years old. It was an incredible project from the start. Having a mark on the U of A campus is the pinnacle of my career thus far.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
I honestly love my job and working with people. I strive to find the positive in challenging situations. I was told early on to treat every obstacle as a learning experience and as an opportunity to build relationships.
With that said, the most challenging part could be classified as ‘code compliance.’ Municipal codes have a way of inhibiting the potential of projects. Working with jurisdictions and utility companies, and presenting unconventional solutions that don’t meet their standard specifications or requirements, can be challenging.
What unique experiences or perspectives do you have that make you stand out in landscape architecture?
I think my colorful work experience has given me a unique perspective and cultivated an ability to collaborate with other disciplines at a high level. Having been a part of multi-disciplinary teams for many years, I was shown the “big picture” early in my career. And with that, find how landscape architects can create value on the design team.
I’ve excelled in communication and organization, two key components to successful project delivery. A great design will go nowhere without the drive and understanding of how to bring it to life.
I also have a personal endeavor to bring awareness of landscape architecture as a profession. I’ve worked closely with clients to show the value of having a landscape architect involved in a project from conception. With that success, landscape architects lead most projects at Prism Design Studio. We are in a special point in time for landscape architecture in Northwest Arkansas, and we have an abundance of talent in the area to be good examples of the discipline. I hope we seize the opportunity.
What are your interests or involvements outside of design?
I joined the Board of Directors for the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust in 2018, and I am in my third year as president. I’ve served in multiple capacities, including president, for the Arkansas Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects, and have volunteered with the Illinois River Watershed Partnership in various ways. I thoroughly enjoy community service and find it extremely fulfilling.
I love being outdoors, playing soccer, kayaking, sketching and taking care of our 30-plus chickens on our property along War Eagle Creek. Family time on the farm is my idea of the perfect weekend. If I have free time, I’m tinkering with something or drawing a sketch of something to tinker with later.
Who have been your biggest supporters?
My husband is my number one supporter. He has supported every career choice I’ve made and is a true partner in life. My parents continue to be inspiring and supportive. They set forth the idea that my imagination is my only limitation and encouraged creativity from a young age.
It’s a small world in the design industry, and I’m thankful for the many friendships I have developed over the years. It’s a tight-knit group, and I am appreciative of the collective optimism and support we foster for one another.
Lastly, a few significant mentors that have made lasting impressions in my formative years are Chip Ashley (RLA), Andrew Slyter (PE), Rick Rogers (RLA) and Ryan Faust (AIA). These gentlemen continue to find ways to be supportive long after we shared a workspace.
What’s the best part of your career?
Right now. Starting my own design firm, hiring my first full-time employee, working on projects that will be staples in the community, and working with non-profits that are creating a legacy for future generations. And living on a farm and watching my children flourish in nature. This year has been a dream come true.