Landscape Architects

Landscape architects plan and design outdoor spaces that make the best use of the land and at the same time respect the needs of the natural environment. They may be involved in a number of different types of projects, including the design of parks or gardens, scenic roads, housing projects, college or high school campuses, country clubs, cemeteries, or golf courses. Both the public and private sectors employ them.

Landscape architects begin a project by carefully reviewing their client's desires, including the purpose, structures needed, and funds available. They study the work site itself, observing and mapping such features as the slope of the land, existing structures, plants, and trees. They also consider different views of the location, taking note of shady and sunny areas, the structure of the soil, and existing utilities.

Landscape architects consult with a number of different people, such as engineers, architects, city officials, hydrologists, zoning experts, planners, real estate agents and brokers, and landscape nursery workers to develop a complete understanding of the job. Then they develop detailed plans and drawings of the site to present to the client for approval. Some projects take many months before the proposed plans are ready to be presented to the client. Landscape architects frequently use computer-aided design and drafting software to help create these designs and video simulations to help clients understand their vision for the project. They may use geographic information systems (GIS) technology (a computer mapping system) and LiDAR (a type of active remote sensing technology), on large-scale projects. Landscape architects also use augmented and virtual reality technology and advanced artificial intelligence (AI) in the conceptualization and visualization stage. They also utilized AI-powered image recognition technology to identify and recommend species tailored to a site’s conditions, in irrigation planning, and for other purposes.

After developing final plans and drawing up a materials list, landscape architects invite construction companies to submit bids for the job. Depending on the nature of the project and the contractual agreement, landscape architects may remain on the job to supervise construction, or they may leave the project once work has begun. Those who remain on the job serve as the client's representative until the job is completed and approved.