On May 14, 2024, the host of the program DiseñArte TV (Channel 5), Dr. Renata Battione—a doctor of law, media professional, and businesswoman—visited the Musacco Nursery to interview Architect and Psychologist Paula Rial, academic coordinator of the Landscape Design Technician program and instructor for Workshop 1; and Psychologist Alejandro O’Neill, instructor for Workshops 3 and 4 in the same program.
This interview, which is part of a special episode of the show's new season, offered an in-depth look at the careers of ORT landscape architects, their achievements—such as winning the Grand Gold Award at the Shenzhen Greater Bay Area Flower Show in China—and their aspirations for the future of Uruguayan landscaping: raising its standards and taking it global.
Watch the full interview:
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Uruguayan Landscaping to the World
The program begins with a visit to the renowned Musacco Nursery, a leader in the production of high-quality plants in Uruguay. This nursery has been instrumental in numerous landscaping projects, providing a variety of species that enrich the country’s urban and rural green spaces.
During the interview, Rial and O’Neill discussed their previous collaborations with Battione on various landscape architecture. These shared experiences were key to their joint work on international projects, with particular emphasis on the Campo Sucio, created in China, which earned them unprecedented recognition in Uruguay.
- You might also be interested in reading: “Teachers Rial and O’Neill Win the Grand Gold Award at the Shenzhen Greater Bay Area Flower Show (China)”
Logistical Challenges and Collaborative Creativity Behind China's Gold Success
One of the most interesting aspects of the interview was the description of the logistical challenges they faced when designing a garden in China. In this regard, Paula and Alejandro explained how they managed time zone differences and remote communication by establishing clear rules to foster creativity and effective collaboration among all team members.
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According to them, the inspiration behind their designs comes from the interaction between urban development and nature. For the Chinese project, they opted for an innovative approach thatcombines elements of science fiction with a strong ecological component. They used local plants and sustainable materials such as butia and bamboo, striking a balance between the modern and the natural.
Learn about the Landscape Technician program
Global Landscape Architecture, Achievements, and Awards
Seeing their design come to life was a deeply moving moment for the team. Their hard work paid off when they received the Grand Gold Award, the highest honor at the Shenzhen Greater Bay Area Flower Show, a prestigious award that brings distinction to Uruguay in the field of international landscaping.
Participating in landscape design festivals has opened up numerous opportunities for Paula and Alejandro. They are currently involved in a large-scale project in China, which demonstrates the growing demand for and appreciation of their innovative, high-quality work.
- You might also be interested in reading: “Uruguayan landscape architecture triumphs in China: interview with professors Paula Rial and Alejandro O’Neill in Gallery”
Commitment to art and education
In addition to their international projects, both landscape architects are deeply committed to raising the standard of landscape architecture in Uruguay. To that end, through educational initiatives, such as the Landscape Design Technician program, and artistic projects, such as Campo sucio, they seek to inspire and train new generations of professionals who will continue developing the field of landscape architecture in the country and around the world.
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One of the most interesting projects they discussed was *Campo sucio* itself, an art installation that challenges traditional perceptions of landscape. According to the teachers, this project will eventually take the form of a garden at a contemporary art museum, innovatively blending art and landscaping.
Learn about the Landscape Technician program
Conscious and Natural Landscaping
Rial and O’Neill also emphasized the importance of a mindful approach to landscaping. Beyond aesthetics, the instructors consider it crucial to incorporate ecological and functional aspects into their designs, promoting a sustainable balance between the built environment and nature. This holistic approach not only beautifies spaces but also contributes to the health and well-being of the environment.
Paula Rial and Alejandro O’Neill’s appearance on DiseñArte TV not only highlights their achievements and creativity, but also underscores their commitment to education and the development of landscape architecture in Uruguay.
Their innovative projects and global vision serve as an inspiration to future professionals and demonstrate that landscape architecture can be both an artistic discipline and a powerful tool for sustainable development.
- You might also be interested in reading: “Live on Channel 5, Architect and Psychologist Paula Rial spoke about globalized landscaping and the award she received in China”