Robin M. Key
Robin Key, RLA, FASLA, brings more than 30 years of experience in educational, institutional, and residential projects to her practice. She founded her firm, RKLA, in 1987 and has had the opportunity to work on several of New York City’s historic landmarks, including the master plan for the First Presbyterian Church on Fifth Avenue, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral’s Bicentennial Garden and Restoration Project, and the recently completed restoration and modernization of the outdoor spaces at Tavern on the Green, located in Central Park. Mindful of the layered history the urban context embodies, Ms. Key's work bridges historic precedent and contemporary design. Aware of the role landscape architecture serves within the community and the larger environment, RKLA’s work emphasizes sustainability and maintainable designs. Ms. Key has served on the board of The Olana Partnership since 2010 and currently serves as co-chair of its Curatorial and Education Committee. She also serves on the Advisory Board for The Noguchi Museum and on The Cultural Landscape Foundation’s Stewardship Council.
Statement: Cornelia’s example of early collaborative design and environmentalism is inspiring! The Oberlander Prize will highlight the complexity behind the work of landscape architecture—how landscapes are problem-solving, functional, healing, and practical, all while creating beauty and playfulness. The prize will also examine and showcase the selected practitioner’s body of work, their evolution as a landscape architect or steward, and the multiple aspects of a well-constructed landscape. The leadership and board of TCLF have a proven track record. They will thoughtfully administer the Oberlander Prize and effectively direct its related programming to educate the public about the value of landscape architecture and the importance of environmental stewardship.
