Designing at the Forest Edge: Naturalistic Approaches with Native Plants

In this talk, Kazys Varnelis—artist, historian, and President of NPSNJ—explores naturalistic design, focusing on the complex and evolving dynamics of the forest edge. By incorporating native plants, designers can create spaces that both enhance biodiversity and establish visual harmony with their surroundings. Varnelis will examine how plant communities at the forest edge present opportunities to reimagine suburban landscapes in an era of climate change, fostering resilience and sustainability. This talk highlights strategies for selecting and arranging native species to encourage natural plant succession and adapt to the shifting nature of the landscape. Drawing inspiration from the spontaneous interactions found in nature, Varnelis shows how we can redefine the relationship between design, nature, and ecological stewardship.

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