You’re a landscape architect working on a new project. How can you make sure your design is adaptable?

1 Understand the context

Before you start sketching, you need to understand the context of your project. This means researching the site, the client, the users, the regulations, the history, and the culture of the place. You also need to analyze the environmental, social, and economic factors that affect the site, such as soil, water, vegetation, wildlife, infrastructure, demographics, and markets. By understanding the context, you can identify the opportunities and constraints for your design, as well as the potential risks and uncertainties.

3 Explore the options

Now that you have the context and the goals, you can explore the options for your design. This means generating and evaluating different alternatives that meet your criteria and indicators. You can use various tools and methods, such as sketches, models, simulations, scenarios, and participatory processes, to test and compare your options. You can also seek feedback and input from your client, users, stakeholders, and experts, to refine and improve your options.

4 Choose the best solution

After exploring the options, you need to choose the best solution for your design. This means selecting the option that best satisfies your goals, criteria, and indicators, while also being adaptable to future changes and uncertainties. You can use a decision matrix, a SWOT analysis, or a cost-benefit analysis, to help you weigh the pros and cons of each option. You can also consider the trade-offs and synergies between different aspects of your design, such as aesthetics, functionality, sustainability, and resilience.

5 Implement the design

Once you have chosen the best solution, you need to implement your design. This means translating your option into a detailed plan that specifies the materials, methods, techniques, and phases for constructing your landscape. You also need to coordinate with other professionals, such as engineers, contractors, and managers, to ensure the quality and efficiency of your implementation. You also need to monitor and evaluate your design during and after the implementation, to check if it meets your goals and expectations.

6 Manage the change

Finally, you need to manage the change that your design will undergo over time. This means adapting your design to the changing conditions and needs of the site, the client, the users, and the environment. You also need to maintain and repair your design to ensure its durability and functionality. You also need to communicate and educate your client, users, and stakeholders, about the benefits and challenges of your design, and how they can contribute to its resilience and flexibility.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?