About Landscape Architecture

Creating inspiring places that connect people to their environment is what drives landscape practice. The knowledge and vision of Landscape Architects can transform the places in which we work and live.

How does landscape add value?

Landscape practitioners have the vision needed to revitalise urban areas and neglected landscapes, creating spaces that benefit us in many ways. Ultimately their work aims to bring people closer to the environments in which they live.

Bringing new life and activity

Regeneration projects can bring new life to urban areas and help to foster a sense of community. For instance, developing local parks and urban centres encourages collaboration between people and businesses, leading to a greater sense of identity, and strengthening the local economy. Great landscape projects can also support tourism and economic investment.

Contributing to health and well-being

More than ever, it is appreciated that creating beautiful outdoor spaces contributes to every-day quality of life in private places such as gardens, as well as in public places. In places where many people lack access to outdoor space, parks and outside areas can have a signigicant impact, Creating accessible green spaces in our towns and cities, and designing for walkability and cycling, can have a positive impact on physical and mental health, by helping people reduce heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, depression and social isolation.

Protecting and managing historic environments

Landscape practitioners work to preserve the identity and character of historic places, so they can be enjoyed by future generations. The work done by landscape professionals can range from letting visitors access and understand archaeological sites, to protecting major landscapes like Stonehenge from the effects of developments.

Inspiring a sense of civic pride by creating attractive spaces

Beautiful spaces can create a shared sense of identity and belonging. Places such as public squares and local parks bring people together and help to shape local identity and character. Creating vibrant public spaces can also play a role in reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

Tackling climate change and protecting our environment

Landscape architects are increasingly leading the way in providing nature-based solutions for sustainable development necessary to deal with local and global environmental issues such as the climate crisis, the biodiversity crisis, and the loss of topsoil.

Landscape practitioners are able to create long-term, environmentally sustainable spaces because they understand the important role that green space, such as parks, trees and permeable surfaces, has on our environment. A well designed and managed landscape can help protect against climate change by encouraging local ecosystems; working with natural systems; managing resources such as soil, energy and water; supporting wildlife; and improving air quality.

Equally important is creating spaces which are loved and cherished by all sectors of the community, which is the best way to ensure their long-term care and preservation