Brookside Gardens

Discover Brookside Gardens, a serene retreat nestled in Wheaton, Maryland, USA, is renowned for its picturesque boardwalk crafted from Black Locust Lumber. Developed in collaboration with landscape architect AECOM, this project stands as a testament to sustainable landscaping and innovative urban design.

Project Partners

AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm based in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1990, AECOM offers engineering, design, construction, and management services across transportation, water, environment, buildings, and energy sectors.

Used in this project

Black Locust Boardwalks

Project Details

• Project Name: Brookside Gardens
• Location: Wheaton, Maryland, USA
• Year: 2009
• Firm (Contractor): AECOM

Product Used: Boardwalk

Press and Additional Resources

• Montgomery Parks - Brookside Gardens

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Discover Brookside Gardens, a serene botanical retreat nestled in Wheaton, Maryland, USA, where visitors are invited to experience a seamless blend of nature and thoughtful design. Central to this iconic project is a picturesque boardwalk constructed from Black Locust Lumber, chosen for its remarkable durability, natural beauty, and sustainability. Developed in 2009 in collaboration with the renowned landscape architecture firm AECOM, this boardwalk stands as a prime example of how environmentally responsible materials can elevate both aesthetics and functionality in outdoor public spaces. The selection of black locust wood was a deliberate choice, reflecting the project’s commitment to long-lasting and ecologically conscious design. Known for its natural resistance to decay, insects, and harsh weather conditions, black locust boards provide a low-maintenance, high-performance surface that harmonizes with the lush plantings and meandering paths of Brookside Gardens. Each plank of black locust lumber contributes not only to the structural integrity of the boardwalk but also to the visual and tactile experience of visitors, inviting them to engage fully with their surroundings. The boardwalk’s design carefully integrates with the garden’s landscape, winding gently through wooded areas and open meadows, guiding visitors along a journey of discovery and tranquility. The warm tones and subtle textures of black locust wood enhance the natural scenery, creating a tactile connection between the guests and the environment. By combining sustainability with thoughtful engineering, the project minimizes ecological impact while providing a functional, safe, and visually captivating pathway for all who visit. Brookside Gardens’ boardwalk demonstrates how black locust boards can transform outdoor spaces, offering a resilient, environmentally responsible solution that complements the beauty of natural surroundings. The project reflects a holistic approach to urban landscaping, where sustainability, design innovation, and visitor experience are intertwined. By incorporating black locust lumber, the boardwalk not only fulfills practical and aesthetic needs but also reinforces the garden’s ethos of ecological stewardship, serving as a lasting example for public space projects across the United States and beyond.