Founded in 1960, EDSA, Inc. is a renowned firm specializing in planning, landscape architecture, and urban design, currently helmed by CEO B. Scott LaMont, a University of Florida graduate with 25 years of experience. LaMont leads the 180-person firm with a focus on cultivating a firmwide culture and driving growth through design excellence. His collaborative approach and strategic leadership extend to major projects like the revitalization of Fort Lauderdale’s Food and Technology Village, the redevelopment of The Boca Raton resort, and various international ventures, enhancing EDSA’s standing as a global creative force. Learn more about Scott and EDSA’s master plans in today’s Designer Friday.
Andrew Joseph: What’s inspiring you in life (in the industry) right now?
Scott LaMont: I draw so much inspiration from the new generation of designers. It’s refreshing to see professionals entering the field full of energy, excitement, and passion. They’re eager to learn, try new things, and explore their creative interests.
We do a lot with new talent at EDSA to encourage growth, from internal educational sessions with our leadership, to company retreats, to our Pathfinder’s Program, in which new hires are mentored by a seasoned employee, encouraging them to gain the knowledge, confidence and skills necessary to be successful at every stage of their career. In doing this, the benefit is twofold – it bolsters our firm’s talent and expertise while bringing new life and energy to the firm and veteran designers. As much as the younger professionals are seeking mentorship, the more senior leaders have an opportunity to gain a fresh perspective and even challenge their own ways of doing things. It’s inspiring to see our firm continue to grow and evolve as we welcome new members from different backgrounds who share in the team’s common passion for design.
EDSA master-planned the Food, Arts and Technology Village in Fort Lauderdale, a pedestrian district blending office spaces, residences, hotels, and international cuisines, fostering a vibrant community with a focus on experiential design.
AJ: What is something you hope to see trending in design in the future?
SL: Looking ahead, I would like data to be increasingly used as a tool to gain a better understanding of design outcomes. I also hope to see designers take even further consideration regarding the impact that they and their projects can have on major factors such as climate and social interactions. I expect this trend to rise in the coming years and to become an even greater part of the workflow.
Frankly, sustainability has long been top of mind in this industry, and we’re continuing to discover the most impactful ways to implement it into each and every project. Whether through eco-conscious sourcing of materials or using design techniques to create a landscape that benefits the environment, I’m optimistic about the outlook for innovative solutions to come in the near future.
I’m also excited to see projects increasingly executed with the intention of inspiring a healthy community through design and engagement. Outdoor spaces have the power to bring people together and foster connection, so we’re always mindful of this during every step of the design process. I think designers are and will place greater emphasis on human connection in developing projects that last well into the future.
Bluewaters Island, a 1.6 billion-dollar investment, is set to emerge as a major tourism draw, boasting a man-made, mixed-use hub of unique retail, residential areas, hospitality, and entertainment, highlighted by Ain Dubai, the largest observation wheel on the globe.
AJ: What’s something you always travel with?
SL: It might seem obvious, but I always travel with my suitcase! I call it “Wilson” after Tom Hank’s volleyball in the classic movie Castaway. It’s my trusty companion wherever in the world I may be. For longer trips, I also make sure to have a great playlist queued up. The right music can really set the mood for a trip and helps the time pass, especially during lengthier flights.
AJ: What is the last book you read?
SL: I recently read Stand Like Lincoln, Speak Like Churchill by James C. Humes. Not only is it an interesting read, but it’s also a great lesson on communication skills with tips on how to be an effective speaker that any reader can benefit from.
EDSA renovated the hardscape and landscape for the pool areas, as well as dated wings of the Boca Raton Resort & Club.
AJ: What are you most proud of?
SL: This might sound obvious, but I’m most proud of my kids! I have three girls—all teenagers—and it’s amazing to watch them grow up right before my eyes and to see their unique personalities develop each and every day. Just this morning my wife and I were bringing one of our daughters to a cheer competition—she was up at 5 in the morning with a checklist, making sure everything was squared away before we headed out. To see this responsibility and enthusiasm in all three of my kids is one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a parent. These are invaluable traits that will serve them well in life, now and in the future. I’m continuously excited to see what they’ll do next and where their passions will take them.
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