Scripps Institute of Oceanography Keck Research Center

This landscape for a climate research instrumentation lab at UCSD’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography features a rich palette of tropical and native plants that builds on La Jolla’s legacy of exotic gardens.  Tropical plants are grown in a courtyard where researchers studying tropical oceans care for them.  Species are chosen for foliage texture, with only a dash of color used.  California native plants are seeded and planted on the surrounding hillsides to restore coastal sage scrub and to create a common natural setting for two modern buildings.  Plantings and irrigation are designed for minimal long-term maintenance.