The Nature Playscape at Conestee Nature Preserve (CNP), with NLI as the lead designer, received a Merit Award in the General Design Category from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Southeast Regional Conference (SERC), presented at the 2026 Conference Awards Gala in Raleigh, North Carolina. The award recognizes excellence in landscape architectural design throughout the southeast. The recognition highlights NLI’s leadership in creating innovative outdoor environments that connect children and families with nature through play, exploration, and learning.

NLI worked closely with project partners; notably, the CNP leadership and landscape architect Michael Etheridge, with Davis & Floyd, Greenville, SC. The team transformed a small portion of the 500-acre Conestee Nature Preserve into a nature-rich destination for children and families that encourages active outdoor experiences and environmental discovery. The playscape incorporates natural materials, diverse play opportunities, and ecological features that support child development while building meaningful connections with nature.

The award reflects NLI’s ongoing commitment to designing outdoor playful learning environments that promote health, well-being, and nature connectedness. It also celebrates the collaboration and shared vision of the many partners, supporters, and community members who helped bring the project to life.

We are honored to share this regional recognition and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a space that inspires children and families to engage with the natural world for generations to come.