"Gardens are so perishable"

Abstract

This thesis proposes a preservation strategy for the former property of Elizabeth Lawrence. Lawrence was the first woman to receive a landscape architecture degree in North Carolina. The author of numerous books, articles, and newspaper columns, she designed and maintained the house and garden at 348 Ridgewood Avenue, Charlotte, North Carolina. This thesis examines the history of historic landscape preservation practice and philosophy. This thesis also provides an inventory of existing conditions and presents a maintenance plan for the property.