Gardens at the Bank of Springfield
When the Bank of Springfield expanded its flagship location in 2004, it sought a landscape that would make a bold visual statement. Inspired by the dramatic plantings seen on Florida golf courses, the bank’s CEO envisioned vibrant, high-impact seasonal displays dominated by annuals and tropicals. However, given the challenges of central Illinois' climate, the design instead embraced a more layered approach—one that balanced the energy of seasonal color with the longevity and structure of perennials, ornamental grasses, and shrubs.
For six seasons (2004–2010), we curated and refined the plantings, ensuring that the landscape remained dynamic and engaging year after year. Spanning 22,000 square feet along a major thoroughfare, the gardens were designed to evolve over time. Broad sweeps of perennials and annuals lined the main avenue, while secondary plantings added depth, contrast, and rhythm. Rather than relying on rigid mass plantings, the design experimented with layering and succession, ensuring a dynamic interplay of color, texture, and form throughout the seasons. Annuals remained an essential part of the composition, woven among perennials and structural plantings to extend interest and variation.
As the garden matured, the plantings evolved from bold graphic masses into more intricate compositions. The result was a landscape that not only enhanced the bank’s presence but also reshaped expectations for civic plantings in Springfield. It proved that commercial landscapes could be more than background—they could be experiences. The gardens became a recognizable feature of the city, earning praise for their impact and setting a new standard for street-side beautification.
In 2009, the project received an Honor Award from the Perennial Plant Association, recognizing its innovative approach to planting design.
Though distinct from later projects, the Gardens at the Bank of Springfield were foundational—a study in contrast, scale, and planting design that informed a broader exploration of how designed landscapes can engage, evolve, and endure.
"Mr. Woodruff's innovative approach to landscaping the Bank of Springfield's Wabash location is the talk of the town and has set a new standard for street-side beautification in the capital city. His award-winning creation is an inspiration for other businesses, which are now trying to follow suit by stepping up their landscape efforts."
Mayor Timothy J. Davlin, City of Springfield
Gardens at BOS have been featured in Horticulture magazine and a selection of professional journals.
Adam Woodruff LLC
Gardens & Landscapes
Plant-driven, Experience-focused
Based in Saint Louis, Missouri
Working nationwide, with time spent
in Portsmouth, New Hampshire