Here's how you can master the crucial skills for landscape architects in public spaces.

Las teorías en arquitectura son el soporte conceptual a cada elemento que se dispone de manera compuesta tridimensional, son estos conceptos los que, dan sentido, armonía y pertinencia cada propuesta, es vital conocer suficientes elementos conceptuales en el dise?o, en lo funcional, ambiental, estético, contextual ya sea tangible o intangible. Los elementos teóricos dan seguridad y coherencia en las propuestas.

Esteemed peers in landscape architecture, Let’s remember the importance of design theory in our quest for recognition. It’s not just about looks; it’s about crafting spaces with purpose and harmony. Think of design theory as a dance of elements like balance and unity, all in tune with human experiences. Our rich history sets the stage for new, engaging interpretations. As I add my voice, infused with our field’s legacy and new insights, let’s acknowledge our work’s depth. Our designs aren’t mere landscapes; they’re backdrops for life’s stories. Looking forward to tomorrow’s insights, let’s enjoy our design journey with both seriousness and a dash of humor. In shared professional spirit and wit,

While delivering a project that has elevated existing conditions and provided social and environmental benefits through solid site specific design principles is key - the initial concept analysis can make or break a project. Through experience, understanding what specialists bring to the table and when and how to involve them is critical to the design theory and ultimate success of a project.

By all means, bring your technical expertise to the table! I believe that a good designer needs to be able to be at least conversational in as many other disciplines as they are able. I have often found that my most critical role for a landscape architect is as a translator between disciplines. I am not sure that it is practical or possible to possess all the technical skills necessary to deliver a project. If you can be the person who can bring the team of people together who posses the necessary skills and help them work together, any project will surely be improved.

In the development of a deseart village, a rural park designed for the elderly, my technical acumen was front and center. Through CAD and BIM, I meticulously drafted plans that harmonized the rustic charm of the countryside with accessible design principles. My knowledge of topography was essential in sculpting gentle walkways and rest areas, accommodating the mobility needs of the elderly. My expertise in soil science played a crucial role in selecting native plants that require minimal maintenance yet flourish in the rural setting. Understanding plant biology allowed me to create a year-round blooming schedule, providing continuous visual and sensory stimulation.

Ecological awareness can also include the smart and efficient design of Green/Blue-green infrastructures. Ecological Awareness can strategically planned in different levels; project users, related engineering disciplines (e.g. Civil engineering) and etc. However, for landscape architects, it should not be named as " Awareness". That means basic understanding of Ecological processes while choosing the appropriate species. it should be named as " Building Ecological capacities" it is not " optional" for a landscape architect to be sustainability of ecology literate or "Aware" IT IS A MUST!!

Understanding the project context, users and projected future needs for flexibility are critical in design. Engaging with the community and identifying critical stakeholders ensure a well rounded voice. One of my most successful engagement activities was the opportunity to sit at a table with community members and sketch out a possible design. Hearing concerns and understanding the hierarchy of priorities was extremely helpful. At the end, all tables presented their ideas and critical ‘moves’.

When submitting a proposal, develop a time task fee matrix and schedule that highlight key milestones. This is an excellent way to establish clear expectations with clients and the design team and will translate into smoother resource and project management.

During my experience, I have found that total immersion is a great way to connect with a space. Being completely present in a space I'm working with on my own time helps me immensely. I try to visit a project outside of formal discussions with clients to not put as much pressure on my creative process. That being said, collaboration with peers is also extremely important to my process. Even if it's a 2 minute conversation, that's all it takes sometimes for new aspects of a project to reveal themselves to you and your team.

I believe that the above skills are great nut not enough, also Top skills may also include: Interpersonal skills Sustainability " Capacity" not awareness!!