Lauri Macmillan Johnson

Lauri Macmillan Johnson is a Professor and Director of the School of Landscape Architecture and Planning at the University of Arizona. Her work bridges design theory, cultural landscapes, and children's environments, with a focus on creating meaningful outdoor spaces through art, culture, and nature.

• Education: BSLA from Rutgers University, MLA from the University of Illinois

Her research emphasizes children's spaces and cultural landscape preservation, including projects like the Bryce Canyon National Park Cultural Landscape Report and the award-winning Garden of Abandonment at Chaumont-sur-loire. She has collaborated with the National Park Service on master planning and conservation.

Recent publications highlight her expertise in design theory, ecological integration, and historical landscape interpretation, spanning topics from surreal Mexican gardens to therapeutic spaces for neurodiverse children. She also co-authored book chapters on influential designers like Burle Marx and James Rose.

As an educator, she teaches history and theory of landscape architecture and leads design studios that have earned recognition, including finalist awards in competitions like Recycle This Site and Integrating Habitats. Her lab collaborates with institutions such as the Reid Park Zoo on exhibits like Expedition Tanzania, blending education and conservation.