Landscape architecture students in the LA 3001 Site Planning and Design course led by Yao Wang, assistant professor of landscape architecture in the LSU College of Art & Design, and the PLAN 6520 Urban Design Studio at the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Environment and Design (led by assistant professor Qiong Wang, UGA,) embarked on a transformative field trip to Savannah, Georgia from November 19 to 21, 2024. This three-day journey blended academic presentations, professional development, immersive exploration, creating unforgettable memories, and fostering lasting connections.

Showcasing Collaborative Design

At the heart of the trip was the presentation of a multidisciplinary design for a 367-acre site in Savannah to the Savannah Planning, Zoning, and Urban Design Department and stakeholders. UGA students focused on urban design, while LSU students contributed their expertise in landscape architecture. The project aimed to address the complexities of balancing Savannah’s rich environmental resources with the growing demand for housing, while also promoting climate resiliency. The city planners and stakeholders were impressed with the students’ design work and presentations.

One student noted, “It was an opportunity to translate months of studio work into a professional setting and to receive feedback from experienced practitioners. Savannah, with its rich history of urban planning and carefully preserved design traditions, served as an ideal case study for testing our ideas.” Another student shared, “Presenting to the Savannah Planning Manager felt like a big deal, and hearing his feedback validated our hard work. It was an incredible learning experience. Reflecting on the experience, another student said, “It also put me in a position to face real-world criticism. This has most accurately provided insight to what future professional presentations may look like to clients and other colleagues.”

Beyond academic and professional development, the trip offered opportunities for students from different disciplines to build connections and strengthen bonds. Students said, “This trip was about more than presentations. It was about forming connections, celebrating our efforts, and learning from one another.”​

“Between the games, laughter, and teamwork, this trip brought us closer together,” one student shared. “It was amazing to finally meet the UGA team in person after months of virtual collaboration. This camaraderie added a new dimension to our project.” ​

A Platform for Professional Growth

The students also visited Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC), a multidisciplinary design firm, to gain insights into professional practices. Students learned how disciplines such as landscape architecture, urban planning, and engineering come together to address complex challenges. GMC’s emphasis on adaptability, communication, and technical skills resonated with the students, inspiring them to envision their future professional paths.

Students reflected: “Learning from GMC professionals about solutions like wetlands mitigation and flood management was invaluable. It directly related to the challenges we faced in our project.”

“Their guidance on cultivating technical skills and interpersonal abilities, such as communication and teamwork, has broadened my perspective on what it takes to thrive in this field.”

Immersive Learning and Exploration

The group’s base was the Marine Education Center on Skidaway Island, a serene location surrounded by 700 acres of marshlands. Activities included walks along the Jay Wolf Nature Trail and visits to the center’s aquarium, where students encountered local marine life. These experiences underscored the importance of preserving coastal ecosystems and integrating natural beauty into design.

Students recalled: “Stargazing on Skidaway Island was magical,” “The Big and Little Dippers sparkled brightly, and it’s a memory I’ll cherish forever.”​ “Standing on the land we had spent months designing for gave me a real connection to our work. It reminded me of the importance of understanding a place deeply. I’m extremely grateful to our school for allowing us to take part and such a magnificent experience!”

The group also explored downtown Savannah, marveling at its historic squares, River Street, and vibrant culture. One student said, “Visiting Savannah after studying its urban design gave me a deeper appreciation for the city’s layout. It felt almost intimate, as if I had a connection to the streets and landmarks through our work earlier in the semester.”

“This field trip was not merely an academic exercise but a journey of discovery, collaboration, and inspiration. It provided an opportunity to connect with peers, professionals, and the environment. This collaboration exemplified the power of interdisciplinary learning and highlighted the significance of service learning in design. It also reminded students of their responsibility as future designers to respect history, nurture ecology, and innovate for a sustainable future.

“We would like to express our gratitude to LSU RRSLA, LSU CoAD, UGA CED, UGA MUPD program, Savannah Planning, Zoning, and Urban Design Department (Planning Manager, John Anagnost), the UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, and UGA Office of Service-Learning for their generous support of the field trip,” professor Wang said.

“We would also like to thank the professors and designers who reviewed the students’ projects: Brendan Harmon, Fabiana Trindade da Silva, Joni Hammons, Hayden Hammons, Max Conrad, and Charles Fryling; Cassie Nichols, Chad Danos, and Rachael Gautier.”

“Additionally, we would like to extend our special thanks to Brent Fortenbury, Interim Director, for his strong support of this project. We would also like to thank the professors and designers who reviewed the students’ projects: Brendan Harmon, Fabiana Trindade da Silva, and Joni Hammons; Cassie Nichols, Chad Danos, and Rachael Gautier. Finally, we appreciate the support of the RRSLA and CoAD professors and staff, including Haley Blakeman, Kalia Jarvis, Allison Williams, and Jerri Jensen.”

Photos taken by Trey Cooper, Yao Wang, Qiong Wang, and Ana Manzo.