Aesthetically edible ideas
also part of JAMF design
More than just good ideas grow at JAMF Software.
Ayres Associates is working with the company to
integrate edible plants into the site around its new
downtown Eau Claire office.
Edible landscaping involves integrating plants that
bear fruit, berries, and nuts into a planting scheme
to provide beauty and something to harvest. That
harvest could be as humble as a handful of berries or
as robust as a small orchard of apples.
Ayres Associates landscape architect Phil Johnson
has integrated edible plants into several landscaping
designs. Important in a public setting, he says, is
making sure not to mix in non-edible species that
appear to be edible. Signs can be used to educate
visitors about what they may want to nibble on.
In the case of JAMF Software, the plantings will
include a half-dozen Standing Ovation serviceberry
shrubs, a red diamond plum tree, and two varieties of
blueberries. If JAMF employees or passing pedestrians
aren’t tempted by the fruit, the autumn harvest is
sure to be a treat for birds.
– Kay Kruse-Stanton
“And it has the best view, better than
we even dreamed.”
Exterior details also
significant
Following JAMF’s goal of giving
something back to the community,
the building includes some
aesthetic exterior design elements
to complement the neighborhood.
The main entrance, when lit at
night, looks like a four-story-tall old-
fashioned square lantern, with a grid
pattern of lighted windows. And the
JAMF building grounds will feature
landscaping that includes edible
plants.
“If you’re going to grow plants they
might as well be multifunctional,”
Johnson said. “Make them attractive,
and if I can also find a blueberry to
eat – that makes my day.” industrial site into a high-quality piece
of property,” Wahlstrand said. “JAMF
is a great neighbor to the improved
public and private land around it in
downtown Eau Claire.”
She may have competition for that
blueberry, as the edible landscaping
will be available to anyone passing by
the building. And that’s fine, she said.
It’s just another way of giving back to
the community. Even after several months of
occupancy, staff members still
appreciate the new building.
“With some extra time and
investment, JAMF not only ended up
with a beautiful view, but they can
feel proud of their commitment to
redevelop a formerly contaminated
“We do not take it for granted,”
Johnson said. “We feel so fortunate
to be in this location and have this
quality of construction.”
TRENDS
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