In Memoriam: Harlind Libbrecht (1959–2025)

On January 8, 2025, we bid farewell to Harlind Libbrecht, an exceptional figure in our field. His sharp and steadfast vision, dedication to his profession, and inspiring teaching style left a lasting impression. He was 65 years old.

Harlind was essential in shaping the vision and mission of the LE:NOTRE Institute and the Landscape Forum. His passion for heritage landscapes has influenced many of us.

You may wish to remember him through the way he conveyed this passion. In May 2014, a recording of his keynote was made in Sarajevo at the Landscape Forum:

Lecture Harlind Libbrecht ‘Landscapes of Conflict’ in Sarajevo, May 2014

A Life Devoted to Nature and Education

Born on October 26, 1959, in Oudenaarde, Harlind grew up in the picturesque village of Zulzeke, nestled in the Flemish Ardennes. His love for nature and landscapes was sparked early on through his involvement in the nature youth organization ‘Wielewaal Jongeren’. This passion set him on the path of Landscape Architecture, in which he graduated in 1981 from the ‘Higher Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture’ in Melle. Harlind continued to expand his knowledge throughout his life, earning a master’s degree in Monument and Landscape Care from the University of Antwerp in 2015.

For nearly three decades (1989–2018), Harlind taught at the HOGENT University of Applied Sciences and Arts (KASK & Conservatorium). He inspired generations of students with his extensive knowledge and enthusiasm. As a passionate lecturer, he not only taught his students how to design gardens and landscapes but also inspired them to read the stories of landscapes and uncover the many layers they hold.

Harlind Libbrecht exporing the periphery of Brussels, June 2014

A Pioneer and Connector

In addition to his teaching activities, Harlind was a pioneer in applied research within landscape and garden architecture in Flanders. He brought together historical landscapes and contemporary design practices as a promoter in projects such as ‘The Ypres Salient, from Memory to Vision’ and ‘The Ypres Salient, from Reconstruction to Commemorative Landscape.’

His active involvement with the international LE:NOTRE Institute and ECLAS (European Council of Landscape Architecture Schools) made him a widely recognized and respected figure in European landscape and garden architecture education. Harlind co-founded  the LE:NOTRE Institute and shaped its vision and mission. His impact was mostly felt in the working group on Landscape Identities. In 2018, Harlind hosted the ECLAS Conference Landscapes of Conflict at HOGENT. In 2021, he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from ECLAS in recognition of his long-standing contributions to the field.

A Moustache, a Ponytail, and a Mandolin

As a passionate musician, Harlind demonstrated that harmony could be captured not only in design but also in chords. Together with his friends and brothers, he founded the folk-rock band Kadril. His mandolin melodies, lyrics, and unique stage presence—characterized by his moustache and ponytail—made him an indispensable part of Flemish folk culture.

A Challenging Final Chapter

After a severe stroke in 2018, Harlind’s life changed dramatically. His physical abilities and communication were severely limited, but his spirit remained unbroken. In 2022, Harlind found a peaceful home in Spain, surrounded by loved ones and the Catalonian landscape he cherished. However, his health remained fragile.

Rest in Peace, Harlind

Obituary kindly shared by Ruben Joye, HOGENT

ECLAS Conference 2025: agriCULTURAL landscapes
We are excited to invite you to the 2025 ECLAS Conference, which will be held from 6 to 10 September in Nitra, Slovakia. Submit your abstract by February 15, 2025.