What Is the Definition of Landscape Architecture?
What is the definition of landscape architecture? Architecture is a key occupation and skill that is necessary to the success of any industrial nation. Without skilled and trained architects, we would not have houses to live in. Without houses to live in, we would not have neighborhoods to raise our children in. Furthermore, without skilled architects we would not have buildings to work in, worship in, or congregate in for special occasions. Architects are needed to design these buildings from top to bottom, not only to make them look cosmetically pleasing to the eye, but also to ensure they are structurally sound upon completion. However, architects who design buildings are not the only type of architects there are. There are also architects known as landscape architects who perform what is known as landscape architecture. So, what is the definition of landscape architecture?
The definitions of landscape architecture range from the simple to the highly-technical:
- The Home and Garden Insurance website defines landscape architecture as “the art of composing landform, water, vegetation, buildings, paving and climate to make good outdoor space.”
The American Society of Landscape Architects, a leading national trade association for this profession has a more technical definition which includes “… the profession which applies artistic and scientific principles to research, planning, design and management of both natural and built environments...the planned arrangement of natural and constructed elements on the land...the creating environments shall serve useful, aesthetic, safe and enjoyable purposes.”
Importance of Landscape Architecture
Over recent years, landscape architecture has become increasingly important. It has grown in importance as it has become more and more clear that we need to protect the environment.
This began in 1858 with the first piece of landscape architecture ever created. This piece of architecture still exists today and is known as Central Park. Preserving the environment with more parks and recreational areas of this nature has become a top priority due to the massive construction efforts to build more houses and buildings.
Duties of Landscape Architects
Landscape architects are responsible for a great many aspects in their position. Their overall aim to create an environment that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye, yet keeps the necessary components of the environment intact. The duties of the landscape architect include:
- Investigation, selection and allocation of land and water resources for acceptable use
- Studies of feasibility
- Formulation of pictorial and written criteria to govern the design and planning of land construction programs
- Review, preparation and analysis of master plans for land usage and development
- Production of overall site plans, landscape grading and landscape drainage plans, irrigation plans, and details of construction
- Specifications, estimates of cost, and reports for the development of land
- Collaboration in bridges, roads and structure designs in respect to the aesthetic and functional requirements for the areas in which they serve
- Negotiation and arrangement for land area projects
- Observation in the field of the actual construction, restoration and maintenance of the land are
Like a building architect, the landscape architect is responsible for designing space which makes it easy and enjoyable for humans to live and work. For detail information on this profession, contact the American Society of Landscape Architects.