SCASLA Achievement Award
The judges highlighted the project’s strong research and analysis, with clear concepts and diagrams that were easy to understand. The evocative “Woven Basket” theme and precedent images brought a strong sense of place, while creative ideas like the tower walk stood out, even if they felt grand in scale. The sections and visuals were compelling, and the narrative showed thoughtful intent. Overall, a beautifully presented project with strong vision and creativity.
Hollenbeck Park illustrates how large neighborhood parks in dense urban areas can remain underutilized when dominated by large expanses of empty spaces and lacking spatial identity of the current site amenities. The current design is a low-budget solution to the site's placement in a utility corridor. This project revitalization starts with the removal of large areas of grass to increase levels of biodiversity with new water wise and riparian plantings and an increase in active programming for more community engagement with the space. A new park framework will introduce new places for shade, seating and multi-functional spaces.
About
Ben Marchesano
My name is Ben Marchesano, and my path to landscape architecture has been shaped by a variety of different work experiences. Before finding this program through UCLA extension, I worked several different jobs, including as an EMT, where I worked in the back of an ambulance during COVID and learned how to stay calm, communicate effectively, and work as part of a team in high-pressure situations. I also spent two years working in construction, installing cabinets in people’s homes. That experience gave me a strong appreciation for craftsmanship, materials, and how design translates from drawings into real spaces.
While studying Landscape Architecture through UCLA Extension, I worked at Devil Mountain Nursery along with my classes to build a stronger understanding of plants and how they are used in the landscape. Working directly with plants helped me connect what I was learning in the classroom to real-world applications and gave me a deeper appreciation for planting design. These experiences have shaped my approach to landscape architecture and continue to influence my interest in creating functional, thoughtful spaces that connect people with the natural environment.