Jerry de Gryse, FAILA

Jerry de Gryse is a pioneering landscape architect with over 45 years of practice in the US and Australia, known for his innovative and award-winning contributions to the profession. Originally from Detroit, he arrived in Australia in 1981 and went on to establish Inspiring Place Landscape Architects, playing a leading role in shaping the discipline in Tasmania and earning national recognition for his work.

Jerry’s career spans projects of diverse scale and scope—from thousands of square kilometres of wilderness landscapes to detailed construction projects in urban centres. His work integrates nature, culture, and community, reflecting his belief in creating inspiring places that are socially and environmentally regenerative.

His achievements include numerous State and National Awards from the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) and the Planning Institute of Australia, covering land management, planning, cultural heritage, urban design, tourism, parks and open space, and research and communication.

Jerry has also played a major leadership role in the profession. He served as President of AILA’s Tasmanian Chapter for 10 years during the 1990s and early 2000s, later joined the National AILA Board, and continues to contribute through roles such as serving on the AILA Archive Committee. Currently, he is curator for the 2025 National Festival of Landscape Architecture in Hobart (Lutrawitta).

Beyond practice, Jerry is active as a writer, public speaker, academic contributor, and juror. He has published widely both internationally and in Australia, taught in the US and Australia, and served as a juror for numerous landscape architecture and architecture awards, including AILA’s National Student Awards. He is well regarded for his critical insight, ability to prepare thoughtful citations, and constructive contributions that elevate professional practice.

After nearly 25 years as co-director of Inspiring Place, Jerry has transitioned to a mentoring and advisory role while continuing to engage in planning and design. He is respected as a practitioner and collaborator, working closely with communities to sustain local values and create places that foster resilience, heritage, and regeneration.

Jerry remains passionate about the art and science of placemaking, believing deeply in the power of inspiring places to enrich communities. His participation in the IFLA APR Jury is one of the many ways he continues to contribute to the advancement of landscape architecture, nationally and internationally.