Claire Bennett was an accomplished landscape architect and leader in the profession. But most importantly to her, she raised four children, simultaneously running a business, involving herself in community and professional activities, and as she puts it, “trying to be the all around mother”.

 Claire Bennett, FASLA, Image by David Gorden, FASLA

Claire passed away peacefully at her Carmel, Indiana home on March 13, 2023, just shy of her 95th birthday. She was ASLA’s 46th president, serving 1990-91, and the third woman to hold the position. Upon completion of her term, her departing-from-office gift was a puppy – “KC” – named after the site of the Annual Meeting over which she presided – Kansas City. A dog was at her side from then on.

Claire grew up in Massachusetts and graduated from Radcliffe College with a degree in architecture. With her husband Paul, she moved to Indianapolis where she spent the rest of her life. She always considered herself a Bostonian though, and her “happy place” was Martha’s Vineyard, where she spent many summers (including last year).

Claire’s introduction to landscape architecture came from noted Indiana landscape architect Frits Loonsten who offered her a job. Claire quoted Frits telling her, ‘You know construction. You know design. I’ll teach you the rest.” In 1974, she started her own firm, and for several decades worked on a variety of projects from private residences to major public spaces. With her business success and professional leadership, she was a role model for many women, especially within the Indiana Chapter of ASLA. In 2003, the Chapter honored Claire by creating the Claire Bennett Legacy Award, recognizing members who embody her spirit of service to the profession and community.
A wall of her home was covered with certificates, medals, and awards, illuminating her many accomplishments and the impact she had on the profession, community, and her many friends and colleagues. All will miss her greatly.

Claire’s life was documented by a video created in 2018 that can be viewed here. 
A conversation between Eugenia Martin, FASLA and Claire conducted last fall can be viewed here.
View Claire’s complete obituary.