How can you develop the skills to succeed as a landscape architect in the 21st century?

1 Stay updated

One of the most important skills for a landscape architect is to stay updated on the latest trends, research, and innovations in the field. Landscape architecture is constantly evolving and responding to new challenges, such as climate change, urbanization, social justice, and biodiversity loss. You need to keep learning and adapting to the changing needs and expectations of your clients, users, and stakeholders. You can stay updated by reading journals, blogs, podcasts, and magazines, attending webinars, workshops, and conferences, joining professional associations and networks, and following influential landscape architects and firms on social media.

3 Be flexible

A third skill that you need to succeed as a landscape architect is to be flexible and adaptable to different situations and challenges. Landscape architecture is a complex and multidisciplinary field that involves working with various clients, consultants, contractors, and authorities, as well as dealing with different scales, phases, and types of projects. You need to be able to adjust your approach, expectations, and deliverables according to the specific requirements and constraints of each project. You also need to be able to cope with uncertainty, ambiguity, and change, as well as feedback, criticism, and conflict. You can be flexible by being open-minded, curious, and willing to learn from others, as well as by managing your time, resources, and stress effectively.

4 Be ethical

A fourth skill that you need to succeed as a landscape architect is to be ethical and responsible in your professional practice. Landscape architecture is not only about designing beautiful and functional spaces, but also about addressing social, environmental, and economic issues that affect the quality of life of people and the planet. You need to be aware of the impacts and implications of your design decisions and actions, as well as the values and interests of your clients, users, and stakeholders. You also need to respect the laws, regulations, and codes of conduct that govern your profession. You can be ethical by following the principles and standards of sustainable design, social justice, and public participation, as well as by being honest, transparent, and accountable for your work.

5 Be curious

A fifth skill that you need to succeed as a landscape architect is to be curious and passionate about your field and your projects. Landscape architecture is a rewarding and fulfilling profession that allows you to explore, discover, and create amazing outdoor spaces that enhance the well-being of people and nature. You need to be curious and passionate about the opportunities and challenges that you encounter, as well as the goals and visions that you pursue. You also need to be curious and passionate about your own growth and development as a landscape architect, as well as the contributions and achievements of your peers and colleagues. You can be curious and passionate by setting your own goals and aspirations, seeking feedback and mentorship, celebrating your successes and learning from your failures, and sharing your knowledge and experience with others.

6 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?