Walter Hood transforms areas others might write off—like a traffic island or a vacant lot—into vibrant gathering spaces. The award-winning landscape designer’s next project is his most high-profile yet: the new $335 million park at Lincoln Center Plaza in Manhattan.
What’s something people get wrong about you?
That I’m angry when I’m just excited. My voice tends to get really high-pitched.
What keeps you up at night?
The suffering in the world right now. We are reminded every day of strife in the world, and we seem to care more about the markets.
Where do you feel most at home?
Near warm water. I love the ocean and being at the edge.
What question do you ask yourself most often while you’re making work?
How to make it better!
When you were little, what were you known for?
Drawing cowboys with chaps and a Superman forehead hair curl.
What would you wear to meet your greatest enemy?
Issey Miyake. At least I’d be comfortable.
What’s one work of art that got you through an important moment in your life?
To Sir, with Love. I turned to Sidney Poitier’s character as I made my way through academia and the challenges of being the only one in the room.
Name an influence of yours that might surprise people.
Italian culture: everything from food, fashion, cars, and art, and particularly dolce vita… siestas and long meals.
To read more from the 2026 CULT100 honorees, see the full list here.
in your life?
