Understanding the Differences Between the Types of Professionals in the Landscape Design Industry
Do you know how you want your outdoor space to look but aren’t sure exactly how to achieve your landscaping goals?
Many property owners know they need a landscaper but when they start researching landscaping companies, they find several types of professionals, all of which they likely thought did the same thing. This can make hiring a landscaper confusing and overwhelming.
One common misunderstanding is the difference between landscape architects and designers. We’ve broken down the difference between these two landscaping professionals below.
If you have questions about your Nashville landscape project, simply give us a call at Greenway of Nashville. Our experts handle a wide range of outdoor projects and are ready to help you!
What Is the Goal of Landscape Architecture?
Landscape architecture involves the design of outdoor areas, parks, landmarks, and other public spaces. The goal of a landscape architect is to strike a balance between built and natural environments for the best social, environmental, and aesthetic results.
This work requires a specialized hand and a multidisciplinary skill set that involves knowledge of ecology, design, site planning, management, and more.
One of the most notable examples of landscape architecture is Central Park in New York City, one of the first and most famous urban parks in the United States.
Landscape Architecture vs. Landscape Design
People commonly confuse landscape architecture and landscape design or didn’t know there was a difference to begin with. Here are the biggest differentiators between the two:
Landscape Architects Are Licensed by the State
In the state of Tennessee, landscape architects must have a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree in landscape architecture and be licensed by the state. To become licensed, these professionals typically attend a college or university accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board, complete the necessary exams, and obtain the required experience.
Landscape designers, on the other hand, do not have to have a state license. While they may also have a degree(s) in landscape architecture, they aren’t required to have a state license to be considered a landscape designer.
Many landscape designers have completed some type of coursework, whether it be through a college, university, or certificate program. Similar to architecture, landscape design is difficult and specialized work that not everyone can do.
Landscape Designers Usually Perform Residential Work
Another primary difference between landscape architecture and design is that designers tend to work on residential projects, while architects are often employed for large-scale projects in private, public, and academic spaces. However, some landscape architects may also take on residential work, depending on the project.
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Types of Landscape Architecture
Many different types of projects fall under landscape architecture from planning and designing public outdoor spaces to restoring or preserving natural areas, such as wetlands or state parks.
The work of a licensed landscape architect can involve large or small spaces in urban and rural areas or residential developments. They often work with both “hard” (structures) and “soft” (plants) elements of a landscape, while simultaneously keeping in mind sustainability and the impact on the surrounding environment.
While landscape architecture covers a wide range of projects, here are some of the most common spaces landscape architects work within:
- College or corporate campuses
- Public parks
- Residential estates
- Resorts
- National, state, or local outdoor areas
- Street and highway beautification
- Historic sites
- Cemeteries
- Waterfront developments
- Botanical gardens & arboretums
- Golf courses and other recreational spaces
No matter where they’re working or what type of projects they specialize in, a quality landscape architect should have knowledge and experience handling complex activities in both commercial and residential spaces, such as:
- Planning and building outdoor structures
- Dealing with steep slopes or elevation issues
- Placing service lines and other features below ground
- Installing drainage systems
“Work with skilled Nashville hardscaping and outdoor construction professionals who understand your vision and respect your schedule. Contact us for a free quote!”
Do I Need a Landscape Architect?
When you search for landscaping services for your property, it can be difficult to know what you need and what type of company to choose. Generally, this decision rests upon the specific demands of your project.
If your vision for your space is complex or involves completely changing the land, you may benefit from consulting a landscape architect. While these professionals do tend to work on large-scale, custom projects, they can also be hired for challenging residential jobs.
Landscape designers, on the other hand, are particularly skilled in design concepts – unity, proportion, balance, color, and texture – that they can integrate into a landscape.
Essentially, a landscape designer can draw up a blueprint for your space, detailing the type and placement of each feature. If you’re looking to design a new landscape or renovate your backyard, a landscape designer can help you put a plan into place and avoid common mistakes such as buying the wrong plants for your space.
Schedule an Onsite Consultation
If you’re searching for Nashville landscaping, don’t hesitate to call us at Greenway of Nashville. Our team of highly-trained professionals can draw up a beautiful and functional landscape design customized to your space. Additionally, we have the skills and resources to implement that plan, turning your vision into a reality.
When you call us, we’ll schedule an onsite consultation where we’ll come to your property to discuss your needs, goals, preferences, and budget. From there, we’ll handle it all!
When it comes to your Nashville landscape, put a team on your side that has been trusted by homeowners and business owners alike for over ten years. Contact us today to learn how we can improve your outdoor space.
