Former student honored in Austin for
her many years of volunteer efforts

Eleanor McKinney, who earned a Master of Landscape Architecture degree from Texas A&M in 1989, was honored for her volunteer service to the community at an Aug. 19 reception hosted by Austin's mayor and city council.

McKinney, chairwoman of the Austin Green Roof Advisory Group, the latest of her many of service endeavors, was honored at Austin City Hall.

She retired in July from the city's design commission after 13 years of service, including a two-year term as its president. She has also led the commission's urban open space committee.

Her firm, Eleanor McKinney Landscape Architect Inc., specializes in sustainable development.

Launched in 1995, the firm emphasizes site analysis, quality hardscape design and use of native plant materials. Her experience has ranged from large-scale master planning to intimate courtyard designs. For more than 15 years, the studio has provided a unique perspective on landscapes that reflect a regional Texas flavor.

Her firm has completed projects at Austin City Hall, the McDonald Observatory Visitors Center and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

In 2009, McKinney was part of an inaugural group certified as Green Roof Professionals by Green Roofs for Healthy Cities. The accreditation verifies that the certificate holder has attained an interdisciplinary knowledge of best practices associated with the successful design, installation and maintenance of green roof systems.

McKinney's volunteer efforts have also included a stint as chairwoman of the city's density bonus task force and as a member of the parks board, where she chaired its land and facilities committee.

She also contributed to community-based efforts for Great Public Spaces, Austin Green Art and the Congress for New Urbanism.

In 2005, she received the Community Service Award from the Texas Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects for encouraging her colleagues to be civic volunteers.

The landscaping at her home won a Green Garden Award from the city of Austin in 2003. To view photos of the native and adapted plants outside her home, visit www.ci.austin.tx.us/greengarden/award_kinney.htm.

Eleanor McKinney Landscape Architect Inc.'s website is available at www.elemckinney.com.

- Posted: Sept. 6, 2010 -

Contact:   Phillip Rollfing, prollfing@archone.tamu.edu or 979.458.0442.