Being a Landscape Architect
“People think that the most appropriate building is a rectangle, because that’s typically the best way of using space. But is that to say that landscape is a waste of space ? The world is note a rectangle”
– Zaha Hadid
Would you enjoy designing open spaces
- Are you environmentally aware ?
- Do you have excellent design and drawing skills ?
- Do you have acute observational skills, and an eye for detail ?
If you have answered yes to these questions, then the occupation of landscape architect might be for you. Landscape Architects advise on plan and design, the construction of public urban residential and rural landscapes. They also assist in the management and conservation of natural or heritage landscapes and public open spaces. When they plan and design outside areas for parks, recreational areas, private homes and business parks, they ensure that these areas are not only functional, but beautiful and harmonious. They ensure that the design provides environmental benefits as well. Landscape architects are often part of the architectural team that plans the locations of buildings walkways gardens and roadways within these environments. The landscape architect meets with the clients to discuss their requirements and the proposed use of the space. They survey the site, they take into account aspects such as existing plant and animal life, as well as natural contours, depending on the area and environmental impact assessment might be required.
When working on a new project, they use computer aided design, and drafting, or CAD software to prepare models of their proposed work, they sometimes use geographic information systems or GPS, which allows them to show data visually as maps reports and charts. They present these models as well as a predicted budget for feedback and approval, a contract for the workers drawn up, and they procure the services are relevant to contractors.
The landscape architect monitors the progress of the project, and ensures that the work meets the required standards. Landscape Architects work in close collaboration with landscape gardeners and other professionals such as architects surveyors, civil engineers, town planners and environmental campaigners. Landscape architects not only work on new projects, they may focus on preserving and restoring historic landscapes. They can restore areas disturbed by humans, such as mine areas, wetlands and streams damaged by human activity. They also prepare environmental impact assessments for proposed construction areas in highly urbanized areas. They can design green roofs, or rooftop gardens, which can retain stormwater, absorb air pollution and cool buildings. These professionals are office bound for a substantial amount of their working day, they create plans and designs, prepare models and cost estimates. They also do research and attend meetings with clients and workers regarding projects. The rest of their work day is spent on site. With experience, landscape architects could move on to a supervisory or management position, other possibilities involve becoming a partner in a private practice or setting up one’s own firm.
