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What Does a Landscape Architect Do?

What does a landscape architect do?

Have you ever asked yourself, what does a landscape architect do? Residential landscape architects organize all the space on the site outside of a home. They focus primarily on the form and function of land. Landscape architects balance beauty with usefulness to create enjoyable outdoor environments. An inventory of landscape architectural services is summarized below:

 

Planning                             

  • Consultation:
    • Define Objectives, Articulate Preferences, Establish Budget
  • Due Diligence:
    • Topography, Soil Conditions, Climate, Water, Vegetation, Natural Features
  • Site Planning:
    • Assessment of Opportunities and Constraints, Contouring

 

Design                 

  • Environmental Consciousness:
    • Water Conservancy, Energy Efficiency, Sustainability, Preservation
  • Ground Cover:
    • Turf, Bark, Rocks, Concrete, Masonry, Pavers, Cobblestone, Edging, Stone
  • Vegetation:
    • Gardens, Trees, Bushes, Shrubs, Flowers, Plants
  • Water Features:
    • Pools, Spas, Fountains, Ponds, Streams, Waterfalls
  • Fire Features:
    • Fireplace, Grills, Fire Pits, Outdoor Heating
  • Structures:
    • Pergolas, Trellises, Gazebos, Patios, Decks, Playground Features, Outdoor Kitchens, Mailboxes, Gates
  • Infrastructure:
    • Retaining Walls, Irrigation Systems, Walkways, Rock Work, Drainage Systems, Terraces, Fences, Arbors, Columns, Stairs
  • Furniture:
    • Patio Sets, Tables, Umbrellas, Benches, Statuary
  • Lighting:
    • Layout, Design, Fixtures, Products
  • Electrical:
    • Security, Audio / Video

Administration                

  • Construction Documents:
    • Structural Plan, Lighting Plan, Planting Plan, Irrigation Plan, Grading & Drainage Plan, Construction Details
  • Installation & Construction:
    • Contractor / Supplier Recommendations, Selection, Bidding & Negotiation, Construction Observation
  • Maintenance:
    • Recommendations, Contract Management, Monitoring

 

See the related article on What Does an Architect Do?