L. Irene Compadre

L. Irene Compadre serves as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Washington University in St. Louis, affiliated with the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts. She teaches Landscape Representation in the Master of Landscape Architecture program, where she introduces students to innovative representational methods combining freehand and mechanical techniques for developing and communicating design ideas.

Compadre's educational background includes being an inaugural graduate of WashU's Master of Landscape Architecture program and earning her Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the same institution. Her diverse background in musical composition, architecture, sculpture, and scenic art informs her unique approach to 21st century landscape design.

Her research interests span landscape architecture, urban design, and public art, with a particular focus on innovative representation techniques and community-centered design approaches. Compadre's work emphasizes developing observational skills, design vocabulary, and technical drawing abilities as foundational elements for landscape architectural practice.

Her notable awards include:

• Sam Fox School's Recent Alumni Award of Distinction (2021)
• ASLA Central States Award of Excellence

As founding principal of Arbolope Studio, Compadre has advised on numerous significant projects including Washington University's East End Transformation, 100 Above The Park, and St. Ferdinand Homes II. Her studio serves as the local partner for Michael Vergason Landscape Architects on major institutional projects and works with diverse clients across the region.

Compadre is actively engaged with professional organizations, currently serving on the 2025 ASLA National Professional Awards Jury and participating in events like the Design Futures Forum 2024. Her studio, Arbolope, maintains strong connections with academic institutions through exhibitions like the 2025 MLA Accreditation Exhibition at the Sam Fox School.