Stephen Sears

Stephen Sears is an Associate Professor in the Department of Landscape Architecture at the University of Illinois, affiliated with the College of Fine and Applied Arts. He holds roles as Associate Head and MSUD Program Chair. Contact: ssears@illinois.edu | 217-333-1720. Office: 310 Temple Buell Hall, Champaign, IL 61820.

His research explores public space, environmental justice, climate change impacts (food systems, weather patterns), and midwestern vernacular landscapes. Recent work includes Township (a visual narrative on Midwest contexts) and a traveling studio analyzing extreme climate effects. He combines design practice with exhibitions in the U.S. and Europe.

• Research Themes: Geo-humanist studies, climate resilience, urban marginal zones
• Teaching: Studios on site design, digital representation, and seminars in landscape theory/practice, cultural landscapes

Key professional recognition includes the Prince’s Charitable Trust Fellowship. Recent invited presentations address topics like predictability in Illinois landscapes, university roles in North American landscape architecture, and ephemeral observations in design.

Collaborative projects focus on contested urban spaces (e.g., Nicosia), domestic prototypes for extreme environments, and riparian corridor design. His work bridges pedagogy, practice, and public engagement in critical environmental and social issues.