WHO are Landscape Architects? Landscape architects create graphic representations of plans. They design parks and the outdoor spaces of campuses, recreational facilities, businesses, private homes, and other open spaces.
They are the professionals who beautify and make our surroundings very comfortable to live in. Whenever we visit places, cities or countries, we tend to remember the best places based on the landscape environment. The people who are responsible for creating the environment are landscape architects.
What are their duties?
Landscape architects typically do the following:
Meet with clients, engineers, and building architects to understand the requirements of a project
Prepare site plans, specifications, and cost estimates
Coordinate the arrangement of existing and proposed land features and structures
Prepare graphic representations of plans using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software
Select appropriate landscaping materials
Analyse environmental reports on land conditions, such as drainage and energy usage
Inspect landscape project progress to ensure that it adheres to plans
Seek new work through marketing activities or by giving presentations
ADVERTISEMENT
Landscape architects design attractive and functional public parks, gardens, playgrounds, residential areas, college campuses, and public spaces. They also plan the locations of buildings, roads, walkways, flowers, shrubs, and trees within these environments. Landscape architects design these areas so that they are not only easy to use but also harmonious with the natural environment.
Landscape architects use various technologies in their work. For example, using CADD software, landscape architects prepare models of their proposed work. They present these models to clients for feedback and then prepare the final look of the project.
Many landscape architects also use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) which offer GPS coordinates of different geographical features. This helps landscape architects design different environments by providing clues on where to start planning and how to anticipate future effects of the landscape, such as rainfall running into a valley.
The goals of landscape architects are to enhance the natural beauty of a space and foster environmental benefits. Landscape architects may plan the restoration of natural places that were changed by humans or nature, such as wetlands, streams, and mined areas.
They also may design green roofs (roofs that are covered in soil and plants) or rooftop gardens that can retain storm water, absorb air pollution, and cool buildings while also providing pleasant scenery.
What type of degree do most landscape architects have?
Landscape architects typically need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture or a related field, such as architecture. There are two undergraduate landscape architect degrees: a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (BLA) and a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture.
Is it worth becoming a landscape architect?
If you enjoy art and nature, you may want to become a landscape architect. Pursuing a career in landscaping architecture can provide a range of benefits, including the ability to think creatively, use innovative technologies, foster communities and earn a high salary.
What should I study for landscape architecture?
Landscape Architecture studies focus on topics such as architectural design, site planning, living space design, urban planning, urban design, park planning, regional planning, and historic preservation.
Where can I study landscape architecture in Malaysia?
ADVERTISEMENT
Some of the public and private universities offering courses in landscape architecture are listed below:-
Public Universities
Universiti Malaysia Sabah
International Islamic University
Universiti Putra Malaysia
UITM
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Private Universities
Asia Pacific University of
Technology & Innovation.
First City University College.
MAHSA University.
Management and Science University
Universiti Tunku Abdul
Rahman University (UTAR)
Infrastructure Universiti Kuala Lumpur
LimKokWing University
There may be several other universities offering the course. Visit their websites too. Find a university that meets your needs.
Career Tips
For further information on Landscape Architecture contact or visit the website of:
Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia (ILAM) 1-10-3, Presint ALAMI, Pusat Perniagaan Worldwide 2, Persiaran Akuatik, Seksyen 13, 40100, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia.
General Enquiries | T:+(60)13-2020 827 or +(60)3-5523 4638 | F : (60)3-5519 0827 | E : [email protected]
ADVERTISEMENT
Q and A
If you have a question on Architectural Landscape, write to: [email protected]