“What is landscape design? What is it you do, exactly?”
The Association of Professional Designers (APLD) defines landscape design as ‘the process used to develop aesthetically pleasing and functional outdoor spaces.’
As stated by APLD’s board, the goals of landscape design include, but are not limited to:
enhanced experience of nature and access to the natural world
improved site ecology, including water quality and wildlife habitats
improved personal and public safety and health
advancement of sustainability through conservation of natural resources, use of local materials, and improved long-term value to the surrounding eco-region
improved pedestrian and vehicular circulation
compliance with all relevant laws, codes, regulations and ordinances, and
personal enjoyment and improved quality of life.
Design
Broadly speaking, every outdoor space has three primary categories of elements which are addressed in the course of any design for new construction, alterations, or restoration. The landscape designer, working with the client, creates original concepts, drawings, and specifications for at least one, and commonly two or all three of the following:
Hardscaping, Site Work, and systems
Hardscaping includes all the non-vegetative components of the landscape—paved surfaces, steps, decks, walls, pools, ponds, fountains and other water features, and functional structures such as gazebos, pergolas, fences, and gates. Site work can include alterations to ground levels (grading) and drainage, and other measures to improve soil conditions and long-term ecological integrity of the site. Designed landscapes will often call for installation of new or upgraded irrigation/water distribution and electrical/lighting systems. As installing any of the above usually entails significant disturbance to existing soils and/or vegetation, they generally precede the installation of any new plantings or decorative elements.
Plants
Appropriate specification and utilization of plants to achieve the effects called for in the design are critical to the success of any new or revitalized landscape. While not every landscape designer is certified as a botanist or horticulturist, most of us necessarily have some training and practical experience with the plants we recommend and specify. Knowing in advance which trees, shrubs, and perennials will flourish given the specific conditions of a site enables us to confidently choose plant combinations which will be both aesthetically pleasing and successful in populating the landscape.
Furnishings, Decoration, and Art
In the course of designing a project, choices will be made regarding color, form, texture, and other aesthetic qualities in the client’s outdoor space. The designer can be called upon to help identify and source new furniture, outdoor appliances, textiles, and decorative objects and artworks which will fulfill the functional needs and tastes of the client while harmonizing with the design features of the new landscape.
Installation
The documents produced by the landscape designer are then tendered to the installation contractor(-s). Where the designer is part of a design-build team, construction is usually managed and/or executed by professionals from within the same firm—often as part of a single contract. If the designer is a freelancer or part of a design-only practice, the client is usually responsible for contracting with installers of their own choosing—although the designer will, in most cases, be willing to offer contractor referrals and/or seek construction quotes on the client’s behalf. Additionally, the designer may be available (for an additional fee) to act as project manager during the course of installation.
Maintenance
Landscape designers will usually provide their clients with custom-tailored guidelines for long-term stewardship strategy, site sustainability, regeneration and succession. The designer may also refer qualified landscape maintenance professionals who can help ensure the long-term health and viability of the project, and provide followup consultations upon request.