Tanglewood Landscape Framework Plan
Composed largely of two historic Victorian-era estates, Tanglewood has established itself as the American destination for experiencing classical music performances outdoors. While improvements were made over the decades to integrate these land holdings into one, recently, Tanglewood instituted a multi-year Horticultural Initiative to cultivate a singular, coherent landscape. Reed Hilderbrand led the effort to create a comprehensive landscape framework plan to galvanize this initiative.
Both the Tappan Estate, gifted to the BSO in 1938, and Highwood Manor, purchased by the BSO in 1986, were products of the “America’s Country Place” era––escapes from the city for affluent New Yorkers and Bostonians. These landscapes capitalized on their location, framing dramatic views of the Stockbridge Bowl and embracing the hillside. Today, visitors are offered the opportunity to hear music throughout the campus, whether on open lawn, in the gardens, or under the shade of mature canopy trees.
When Reed Hilderbrand began working on the Learning Institute project, an opportunity arose to understand the entirety of Tanglewood as a one-of-a-kind horticultural asset. We conducted an extensive planning evaluation to assess and carefully edit the landscape. Part of the editing process included documenting current vegetation and planning how to best preserve the historic character of the landscape through these plantings. Additionally, the complex will see around 144 new trees planted and a more modern lawn irrigation system. Wayfinding will be optimized for user experience, making it easier to move between amenities and experience sweeping views of the Stockbridge Bowl.
