A downtown Lawrence architecture firm, Multistudio, has dedicated a new garden to their late colleague, Jackson Clark. Clark, an architect at the firm for nearly 30 years, passed away in April 2024 at the age of 76. The garden serves as a living tribute to his passion for landscaping and his significant contributions to the firm.
Key Takeaways
- Multistudio dedicated a garden to late architect Jackson Clark.
- Clark worked at the firm for almost 30 years before retiring.
- The garden features native plants and a bronze plaque honoring Clark.
- Staff and Clark's family celebrated the dedication on October 8, 2025.
- The initiative highlights Clark's lasting impact as a mentor and colleague.
A Living Memorial in Downtown Lawrence
The garden is located at Multistudio's premises at 706 Massachusetts Street. It was created after the last tree in the firm's alley died, presenting an opportunity for a meaningful memorial. Robert Whitman, a landscape architect at Multistudio, designed the space. Whitman worked with Clark for decades and shared a mutual interest in landscaping.
The new garden features a variety of native plants. These include blue grama grass, Montrose White calamint, and Baptisia ‘American Goldfinch.’ Gardens and Grass, a local landscaping company, handled the planting of trees, shrubs, and other flora.
Garden Details
- Location: Multistudio, 706 Massachusetts St., downtown Lawrence
- Designer: Robert Whitman, Landscape Architect at Multistudio
- Plants: Blue grama grass, Montrose White calamint, Baptisia ‘American Goldfinch’ (mostly native species)
- Purpose: Memorial for Jackson Clark, supports native pollinators
Jackson Clark's Legacy and Passions
Jackson Clark was an architect at Gould Evans, now Multistudio, for nearly three decades. He retired about 10 years before his passing. Clark was known for his extensive knowledge and love of landscaping, a passion he often discussed with colleagues like Robert Whitman.
"I’d say everyone that works in the office knew how much Jackson loved landscaping," Whitman stated. "He was an architect, but he was really fond of gardens and trees in particular." Whitman recalled Clark's excursions to measure champion trees, often sharing his experiences with colleagues.
Beyond his architectural work, Clark was a "renaissance man," according to his wife of 35 years, Brigid Murphy. He played a crucial role in building science, focusing on aspects like energy efficiency and indoor air quality in the firm's projects. Murphy emphasized Clark's commitment to integrity in construction.
About Jackson Clark
Jackson Clark spent nearly 30 years as an architect at Gould Evans, which later became Multistudio. He was known for his dedication to building science, focusing on the practical and ethical aspects of construction, such as energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Clark's colleagues remember him as a mentor with a deep love for trees and gardens.
A Mentor and Friend to Many
John Wilkins, a principal at Multistudio, met Clark as a freshman at the University of Kansas in 1980. They began their careers together at Gould Evans in 1985. Wilkins highlighted Clark's role as a mentor due to his maturity and experience.
"He was a great resource to many people who were starting their careers," Wilkins said. "He became a great mentor to many people."
Brigid Murphy expressed her gratitude for the tribute, noting how many people shared stories of Clark being a close friend after his passing. She mentioned that while some might have found him a bit "curmudgeonly," the outpouring of appreciation was deeply touching. A bronze plaque, crafted by Schurle Signs, is now installed above the garden, honoring Clark as a "colleague, mentor, and friend."
Community Impact and Ongoing Tribute
A private reception celebrated the garden's completion on October 8, 2025. Attendees included Brigid Murphy, John Wilkins, Robert Whitman, and Tyler Lindquist. The garden now offers a fresh view for staff entering and exiting the office daily.
The selection of native plants benefits local pollinators, contributing to the area's ecosystem. Passersby can enjoy watching the seasonal plants bloom throughout the fall, spring, and summer. This living memorial ensures Jackson Clark's spirit and passions continue to enrich the downtown Lawrence community.
- The garden provides a tranquil space for employees.
- It contributes to local biodiversity by using native plants.
- The memorial serves as a constant reminder of Clark's contributions.
- The public can observe the garden's seasonal changes.
The dedication reflects the deep respect and affection held for Jackson Clark by his former colleagues and friends. It is a lasting testament to a man who shaped both buildings and lives in Lawrence.