Peter Rolland, Renowned Landscape Architect, Dies at 95

This blog post honors the life and career of Peter George Rolland, a leading figure in landscape architecture. He passed away peacefully at home on July 26, 2025, at age 95.

It summarizes his biography, education, major projects, awards, teaching legacy, and the personal qualities that endeared him to colleagues and clients.

Table of Contents

A life shaped by migration, craft, and design

Peter Rolland’s journey began in 1930 in Frankfurt-am-Main, Germany. His family emigrated to the United States in 1936.

From suburban schooling to advanced study at a leading design institution, his formative years blended practical horticulture with landscape design.

Early life and education

After graduating from Metuchen High School, Rolland earned a BS in Ornamental Horticulture from the National Agricultural College. This grounded his sensibility in plants and stewardship.

He then completed an MLA from Harvard Graduate School of Design. There, he absorbed the intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary approach that shaped his practice.

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Practice, projects, and professional recognition

In 1963 he founded Peter G. Rolland & Associates, later known as Rolland/Towers. The practice became known for ambitious public commissions and refined estate work.

The firm’s portfolio shows a belief that landscape and architecture should be designed together. They are not separate disciplines.

Signature works and honors

Rolland’s notable projects include several high-profile commissions that influence how landscape is integrated with architecture.

Australian Parliament House — a national project requiring sensitivity to symbolism, topography, and public access.

Rockefeller Pocantico Hills Estate — an estate restoration rooted in historical understanding and horticultural skill.

SUNY Purchase — a campus landscape that balances circulation, open space, and architectural relationships.

His firm received top honors, including the Institute Honors for Collaborative Achievement from the American Institute of Architects. They also received the Award of Excellence from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

Rolland was a Fellow of the ASLA and of the American Academy in Rome. He served as President of the Society of Fellows and was an Academician of the National Academy of Design.

Teaching, mentorship, and personal legacy

Beyond his built work, Rolland devoted significant energy to teaching and critique. He shaped generations of designers.

His approach combined high standards with a warmth that made mentorship both demanding and supportive.

Influence in academia and practice

He taught at the Yale School of Architecture. He also served as a design critic at UVA, Harvard, and City College, where he helped young designers translate theory into crafted landscapes.

Many of his protégés spent long portions of their careers in his office. They carried forward his integrated approach to landscape and architecture.

Peter met his wife of 60 years, architect Wendy Altschul Rolland, at Harvard. Together they designed their home and garden, a personal testament to their collaborative spirit.

He was remembered by colleagues and friends for his warmth, generosity, charm, and strong opinions. These qualities forged loyal, lifelong relationships.

Rolland is survived by his three children, three grandchildren, a brother, and a sister-in-law. His wife predeceased him.

Here is the source article for this story: Renowned Landscape Architect Peter Rolland Dies at 95