Landscape Architecture: Unraveling the Mystery
What exactly is landscape architecture ?
A question that plagues many, including landscape architects. Landscape architecture is more than “just plants,” it plays a pivotal role in shaping built and natural environments.
Designing Spaces That Inspire and Connect
As a multidisciplinary field, landscape architecture provides a collection of services including, but not limited to, site analysis and master planning as well as detailed design through construction documentation.
Landscape architects create dynamic spaces through their design of:
- Parks
- Trails
- Campuses
- Streetscapes
- Municipal spaces
- Private spaces
- And much more
They collaborate with a host of professionals including architects, engineers, ecologists, and artists resulting in transformative designs.
Earning the Title of Landscape Architect
The requirements for licensure include an accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture along with practical experience. Candidates are required to take and pass a four-part Landscape Architecture Registration Examination ensuring that each licensed landscape architect is prepared to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public in their practice.
A STEM-Designated Discipline
Landscape architects are well-educated, highly skilled professionals. This was recognized by the U.S Department of Homeland Security, who recently designated landscape architecture as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) discipline, supporting the vital role landscape architects play in the design process.
The Value of a Holistic Landscape Architecture Approach
When engaging the services of a landscape architect, you hire someone who enters a project with a critical eye to examine the interface of nature and man. Their holistic design approach considers all aspects of the site, including:
- Topography
- Hydrology
- Ecologies
- Vegetation
- Architecture
- Social and cultural contextual significance.
This process creates a meaningful and sustainable sense of place that can improve not only environmental health but also human health and act as an economic driver for a region or community.
Designing with the Environment in Mind
A key component of a landscape architect’s job is understanding site environmental factors including soil conditions, sun and wind exposure, and the importance of biodiversity. Green infrastructure such as bioswales and green roofs are some of the tools used to combat climate change and improve water quality. An experienced landscape architect can assess environmental impacts while providing sustainable and regenerative designs.
Of course, landscape architects also design planting plans for which they are well-known, but they are forward-thinking and considerate of how living plant material evolves over time. Whether it’s the seasonality of perennials or the century of oaks, proper planning of plant material and management strategies is vital to the success and longevity of any project.
Discover What a Landscape Architect Can Do for Your Project
So yes, landscape architects design planting plans, but that is just a small portion of the value they bring to any site development project. Learn more about how your next project will benefit from a landscape architect or contact us for more information.