Landscape architecture

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Stourhead Pantheon

Orangerie

Kew Gardens Palm House, London - July 2009

Water feature Silence, Mayfair, London

Central park photo D Ramey Logan

Landscape architecture is the design of outdoor areas, landmarks, and structures to achieve environmental, social-behavioral, or aesthetic outcomes. It involves the systematic investigation of existing social, ecological, and geological conditions and processes in the landscape, and the design of interventions that will produce the desired outcome. The scope of the profession includes landscape design; site planning; stormwater management; environmental restoration; parks and recreation planning; visual resource management; green infrastructure planning and provision; and private estate and residence landscape master planning and design – all at varying scales of design, planning and management. A practitioner in the field of landscape architecture is called a landscape architect.

History

Landscape architecture as a profession has its roots in the works of Carl Theodor Sørensen and Geoffrey Jellicoe. The term itself was first used by Gilbert Laing Meason in 1828 and has since evolved to encompass a wide range of projects and techniques. The profession began to take shape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the establishment of the first landscape architecture program at Harvard University in 1900.

Education and Regulation

In many countries, landscape architects are required to have a degree in landscape architecture and must be licensed. Licensing requirements vary but usually include a combination of education and experience, and sometimes a licensing exam. In the United States, for example, a landscape architect must have a degree from an accredited program and pass the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE).

Practice

Landscape architects work on a variety of projects, including but not limited to residential developments, public parks, gardens, campuses, commercial centers, transportation facilities, and waterfront developments. They work closely with other professionals, such as architects, engineers, and planners, to create environments that are sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.

Sustainable Design

Sustainability has become a key element in landscape architecture. Landscape architects strive to create designs that reduce water usage, incorporate native plantings, manage stormwater runoff, and create habitats for wildlife. They also work on restoring degraded landscapes such as mines or landfills.

Notable Landscape Architects

Some notable figures in the field of landscape architecture include Frederick Law Olmsted, known for designing New York's Central Park; Ian McHarg, a pioneer in the field of ecological planning; and Martha Schwartz, known for her innovative and provocative designs.

Professional Organizations

The International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) and the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) are two of the most prominent organizations for landscape architects. These organizations provide members with access to resources, professional development opportunities, and a platform for advocacy and networking.

Conclusion

Landscape architecture is a vital and dynamic field that combines art, science, and technology to create harmonious outdoor spaces. It plays a crucial role in shaping the environments in which we live, work, and play, making them more sustainable, functional, and beautiful.