What Is Landscape Architecture
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Understanding Landscape Architecture
What Is Landscape Architecture?
Many people often ask about the difference between a landscape architect and a landscape designer. Let’s dive into this topic for clarity.
What Defines Landscape Architecture?
According to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), landscape architecture involves the analysis, planning, design, management, and preservation of natural and built environments. Projects include:
- Designing public parks
- Site planning for both commercial and residential areas
- Land reclamation
- Urban and community layouts
- Historic preservation
Examples of landmark projects include Central Park in New York City, the Emerald Necklace in Boston, and the preservation of Yosemite Park and Niagara Falls. Landscape architects are highly educated, professionally trained, and licensed in 47 states.
Landscape Architect vs. Landscape Designer
The primary professional body in this field is the ASLA in Washington. Full members are graduates of accredited programs with at least seven years of education and experience, and they hold state licenses. In Michigan, like elsewhere, licensure requires passing the LARE examination administered by the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards.
In contrast, landscape designers do not typically have these credentials. Many jurisdictions require a licensed landscape architect's stamp on design plans.
The Landscape Architectural Design Process
Different architects may have varied methodologies, yet they aim for the same result. Ensure you're comfortable with the process your architect proposes. Here’s a typical approach:
1. Pre-planning: Discuss your vision, background, and priorities with the architect. Together, you'll define the project scope, timeline, estimated budget, and draft a contract.
2. Project Planning: Further refine site details regarding its function and usage. The landscape architect will identify development priorities for your approval.
3. Preliminary Design: Assess site requirements and environmental conditions to create preliminary drawings. You'll review and approve design concepts and initial cost estimates.
4. Final Design: Add detail to concepts, select materials, and create initial construction documentation. Cost estimates might be revised.
5. Documentation: Develop detailed specifications and drawings for your approval. The architect may provide construction documents to help solicit contractor bids.
6. Installation: Depending on the contract, the architect may oversee contractor interactions and supervise on-site work. A final project inspection concludes the process.
Selecting a Landscape Contractor
If you need contractor referrals, ask your landscape architect. They typically have a network of reliable industry professionals.
Understanding the Contract
A reputable landscape architect will offer a detailed written contract, outlining the work to be done, schedule, fees, and responsibilities for all parties.
As a registered landscape architect and principal at Sexton Ennett Design, LC, in southeast Michigan, I understand the importance of professionalism and responsibility in landscape design.
For further questions, feel free to contact the ASLA or myself. Visit [Sexton Ennett Design](http://www.sexton-ennett.com) for more information.
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