optforarchitecture

landscaper! Recipient of the ASLA Merit Award 2004, Design category, Saitama Plaza, by Peter Walker & Partners,
photograph by Kazuaki Hosokawa.

Recipient of the ASLA Merit Award 2004, Design category, Jinji Lake Open Space, Park, and Landscape, by EDAW, Inc., photo by Dixi Carrillo.

ARCHITECTURE
LANDSCAPER A Career with An Exciting Future

Recipient of the Excellence Award, Design category, ASLA 2003,

Westlake Corporate Campus, by SWA Group, photograph by Tom Fox.

Recipient of the Merit Award, Design category, ASLA 2004, The Eastbank
636 Eye Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001
Esplanade, by Mayer/Reed, photography by Bruce Forster Photography. [Link]
DISCOVER A REWARDING CAREER
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

¿
Are you interested in the environment,

science and art? Do you enjoy creating and

solving complex problems? Do you like it?

working with other people? Architecture

landscaper offers an interesting future and a

great potential in terms of income and could

be the perfect career for you.

Merit Award Recipient, Design category, ASLA 2003,

What is landscape architecture? 560 Mission Street, por Hart Howerton, fotografía de Christian Lemon.

Think of a place that you enjoy. Probably, this place The term landscape architect was coined by Frederick Law
like a landscape, such as the seashore, a national forest, a Olmsted, an American whose most recognized work
place for a picnic covered with grass or your tree to climb It's Central Park in New York City. Prior to that, the
favorite. Think of some places that are familiar in your the profession dates back to the great landscape designers
everyday life, like your neighborhood, the path you walk on Europeans, like Capability Brown, who designed the landscapes of
bike, the shopping mall where you shop or the land many of the main properties of England during the
around your school. Who planted the trees on both sides? 18th century and Andre Le Notre, designer of the gardens of Versailles in
sides of the street or decided which plants would look better in the outskirts of Paris. Some examples of what we know today
the environments of your school? It is very possible that an architect as landscape architecture can be found at the beginning
landscape architect has been part of the teams that have created from our history, in the hanging gardens of Babylon.
many of the places that surround your life.
Currently, landscape architects can design
Landscape architecture is the analysis, the planning, the parks, playgrounds, zoos, skate parks,
design and management of the natural and built environment. The residential complexes, university centers, centers
landscape architects improve the quality of our lives commercial, gardens, golf courses and recreational areas,
by adding beauty, but they also solve problems by just to name a few examples. They can participate in the
analyze the environmental impact of the proposed development, plan creation of small urban parks or enormous forests
for pedestrian and automobile traffic, and determine the best nationals. What all landscape architects share
use for each land. it is a great appreciation for the environment, a commitment
with the highest standards of planning and design, and the
reward for a job that directly improves quality
of people's lives.
 "Landscape architecture attracted me because it included my interests in "
subject of art and environment. The scope of the profession and the range
of types of work and practice are very broad. The creation of places
Ecological and suitable for living is one of the challenges faced.
our current society.

Ken Smith, ASLA

director, ken smith landscape architect, new york, ny

What do landscape architects do?

Through the creation of sketches and the use of tools
computer-aided design and computer systems
de representación gráfica, los arquitectos paisajistas planifican
the location and arrangement of buildings, access roads, paths,
water attractions, ornaments of the place, plants, flowers and
trees. Only some of the activities that architects carry out
landscapers include:

>> They analyze the natural elements of a place, such as climate, soil,
drainage, vegetation, and the points illuminated by the sun at different
hours of the day. What plants will grow in the place? Where will it grow?
better each plant?

>> Consider what purpose the land will be used for. Will they play?
Children? Will cars arrive and require parking? Will there be
stores and buyers?

>> They evaluate the buildings, roads, water attractions, and services.
existing publics. Will it be necessary to build roads? Will it be
Is it necessary to add power cables?

>> They evaluate the impact of the project on the natural environment.
and the local wildlife. Will the project affect the habitat of the wildlife?
local wildlife? Will the runoff from rainwater cause
a flood of some of the existing streams?

>> Consider the laws and regulations that may apply.

to the ground.

>> They prepare detailed plans of the land, including sketches,

models, photographs, land use studies, reports
writings and cost estimates to be approved by the
client and the regulatory bodies.

>> They develop a list of plants and plan which plants,

Trees, flowers, and bushes should be planted in the place. Award of Merit, Design category, ASLA 2004, Copy: The American Center
for Food, Wine and Arts, by Peter Walker & Partners, photography by Tim Wight-Peter
Walker & Partners.

Landscape architects are IN FASHION!

Cool Careers for Dummies by Marty Nemko and Paul and Sarah Edwards, published by Hungry
Minds, Inc. includes landscape architecture in its list of Super Trendy Careers
(the best of the best). You can buy this publication on [Link]
 Is it architecture?
landscaper
race for you?
This brief questionnaire will help you to
determine your interest in architecture
landscaper. There are no answers
incorrect. Simply mark the one that
apply to your case. Then, evaluate your
Merit Award Recipient, Design Category, ASLA 2003, Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park by Olin Partnership, Ltd. lower interest.
photograph of Jim Abbott.

I think about problems and issues

How can you become a landscape architect? important environmental factors, such as

global warming, the

water and air pollution and the
To be a landscape architect, it is necessary to have a professional degree.
population growth.
There are two types of bachelor's degrees in landscape architecture: Bachelor of
Landscape Architecture (BLA) and Bachelor in Landscape Architecture (BSLA). I like to spend time outdoors.
Generally, these degrees require four or five years of study in I believe it is important to preserve the
design, construction techniques, art, history, and natural sciences environment.
and social.
I observe the courtyards, squares, and parks.
Generally, there are three types of graduate programs, including an MLA. attractions.
for people who have a degree in landscape architecture or another I believe there is a delicate balance.
field, or an MA or MS for people who wish to conduct research between nature and people.
in landscape architecture, but who do not wish to practice as professionals.
I would like to create places that
In order to protect public health, safety, and welfare, the majority offer a balance between the
States require landscape architects to have a license. people and the environment.
Generally, to obtain a license it is necessary to have a degree. I like to draw and design things.
professional, pass a national exam to obtain licenses, and in
I would prefer a job that gives me
some states, undertake a period of supervised practice.
allows working both indoors
and exteriors.

Mostly, my projects
scientists include nature.

Did you know that...? I dedicate time to think about how

improve my community and the quality
of people's lives.
■ Currently, there are around 30,000 architects.
landscape architects in the United States are required
many more. It is a profession with a high demand! results
If you checked:
■ More than 70% of landscape architects
dedicates part of his time to project design 3-4 Are you interested in architecture?

residential areas, such as playgrounds, gardens, pools, landscaper.

fences and other installations. The residential design You have a great interest in
5-6
corresponds to 40% of the U.S. market of landscape architecture.
landscape architecture services.
7 or more You have an interest
■ Approximately 23% of architects exceptional in the
landscape architects are independent, that is, more than landscape architecture.
triple of the average of all professionals.
 When I entered university,
I knew that I was passionate about design,

the creation of patterns and the work

with the spaces in my environment. The
landscape architecture offered me the
opportunity to do all that. I
I feel in my element every time that
I go outside, whether it is from my house or
from any building. As an architect
landscaper, the ability to work with
spaces and find a solution to a problem or challenge,
and at the same time, create something pleasant in aesthetic terms,

it really constitutes an inspiration. The opportunity

to establish my own company and show another side of
I as a person, beyond the football field, is the
realization of a dream. I love the landscape and I hope
to have a long career as a landscape architect.

Eddie George, member of ASLA

professional football player and director of the edge group

Awardee of the Merit Award, Design category, ASLA 2003, Hither Lane,
Dublin, Ohio
by Reed Hilderbrand Associates, photography by Alan Ward.

Where do landscape architects work?

There is a wide range of opportunities for landscape architects.
They can work in various private, public, and academic organizations.
Furthermore, many landscape architects work as independents,
they establish their own companies or work as consultants.

Most landscape architects work in private firms.

These jobs are found in landscape architecture firms,
engineering, architecture, and planning. Likewise, landscape architects
they can work in other types of private companies that have
departments of physical planning, such as university branches or chains
retail, or that offer products and services related to the
planning and land development.

Some landscape architects work for federal agencies, such as the

United States Forest Service, National Park Service, Service
Soil Conservation, Land Administration Office, Corps of
Engineers from the United States Army, Department of Transportation,
among others. State and local governments offer a wide range of
opportunities for landscape architects.

Landscape architects can also teach and conduct

studies in the professional programs offered by schools of
technical training and universities across the country.
Merit Award Recipient, Design category, ASLA 2004, Pacific Heights Residence,
by Andrea Cochrane Landscape Architecture, photography by Holly Stewart.
 What are the incomes of the
landscape architects?

The salaries of landscape architects vary according to

with years of experience, the geographic location, and the type of
cargo. In the year 2004, the average salary for architects
beginner landscapers averaged $39,300. The average
national for all landscape architects corresponded to
$89,700. However, landscape architects and directors
companies can achieve much higher revenues.

Did you know...?

In general, the choice of a school does not
it's an easy decision. There is no system that
classify the landscape architecture programs.
Además, tienes que encontrar un establecimiento
that fits your needs. To choose a
school, develop a list of questions that
help you make a determination. On the site
On the ASLA website, [Link], you will find a
list of sample questions. Merit Award Recipient, Design Category, ASLA 2004, The Eastbank Esplanade,
by Mayer/Reed, photography by Bruce Forster Photography.

I became a landscape architect by accident. I intended to enroll

to university to study art. My parents told me that I had to earn money.
Upon leaving school, therefore, studying art was not a good option. My
another passion was natural sciences, nature, and animals. I entered the
university with the idea of studying veterinary medicine. When I enrolled to attend
a clases como estudiante de primer año, la clase de ciencias animales estaba
I completed it and instead, I took a class called environmental issues. In this
class, every week we had a guest speaker to talk about an aspect
different from the environment. One of the speakers was the head of the department of
landscape architecture. I had never heard about this career before and at that moment, I
I realized that landscape architecture was the perfect fusion of art and science. I have been an architect.
landscaper for over 25 years and my work is increasingly based on art. I have become
the artist I had dreamed of being and yes, they pay me well for it!”
andie cochran, asla
director of andrea cocrhan landscape architecture, san francisco, ca

About ASLA
The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
it is the national professional association for landscape architects,
and represents more than 17,000 members. ASLA promotes the
landscape architecture profession and practice through
Award of Merit, Design category, ASLA 2004, Copy: The American Center for Food, defense, education, communication, and internship.
Wine and Arts, by Peter Walker & Partners, photography by Tim Wight-Peter Walker & Partners.
 I have always liked to draw and through an aptitude test, I discovered the
landscape architecture. I was immediately captivated by the idea of
to contribute to the creation of green spaces. Over the years, my love
due to the profession has increased, and I feel gratified knowing that my work
constitutes a contribution to the society's ability to enjoy and be inspired
for natural environments.
ramiro villalvazo, asla
chief landscape architect of the United States Forest Service, Lorton, VA

Become a member of ASLA!

ASLA's commitment is to provide
to the students who are interested
in obtaining a degree as an architect
landscaper the tools and the resources
necessary to help them achieve
become a landscape architect.
We invite you to register for ASLA as
Student Affiliate Member. You only have
to be interested in architecture
landscaper and learning more about
her. The Student Affiliate membership
includes a one-year subscription to the
Landscape Architecture magazine, authority
in landscape planning and design. If
if you want to get more information, you can
visit [Link].
Recipient of the Merit Award, Design category, ASLA 2003, J. Paul Getty Center, by Olin Partnership, Ltd.
photograph by Tim Rue, TRUE Photo.

Resources
PUBLICATIONS >> Simonds, John O. Landscape Architecture. New York:
There is a large number of books and publications available. McGraw-Hill, 1983.
to help you get more information about the profession. WEBSITES
Prospective students must read Landscape Architecture,
>> [Link] website of the Society
a monthly circulation magazine that is sent to everyone
American Society of Landscape Architects.
Affiliated Student Members. Below are indicated
algunos libros de introducción: >> [Link] - A site that offers information about the
career and scholarships.
>> Laurie, [Link] Introduction to Landscape Architecture.
New York: American Elsevier, 1975. >> [Link] A manual
from the occupational outlook published by the Office of
>> Marsh, William M. Landscape Planning, Environmental
Labor Statistics.
Application. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1991.

>> Newton, Norman T. Design on the Land, The Development of

Landscape Architecture. Cambridge, MA: The Belknap Press
of Harvard University Press, 1971.
2004 ASLA Design Merit Award recipient, Saitama Plaza, by Peter Walker & Partners,
photo by Hiroshi Tanaka. ASLA2004 Design HonorAward recipient, Nasher Sculpture Center, by Peter Walker & Partners, photo by Tim Hurley’s Studio - Tim Hurley.

2004 ASLA Design Merit Award recipient, Peirce’s Woods at Longwood Gardens, by W. Gary Smith, ASLA.

2003 ASLA Design Merit Award recipient Arthur Ross Terrace of the Rose and Priest
Center for Earth and Space at the American Museum of Natural History by Charles Anderson
Landscape Architecture, photo by: D. Finnin/AMNH.

636 Eye Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001

2004 ASLA Design Honor Award recipient, Tidewater Residence, by
Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects, photo by William Abranowicz [Link]