In a world of fierce alarming crises, Landscape Architecture is a mighty tool for revitalizing nature and intertwining social and ecological necessities. Despite the concept of landscape architecture having existed for a considerable period, most people aren’t aware of its true power and requisites which leads often to misinterpreting landscape design as garden design fulfilling aesthetic needs. However, it is much more than just that. Landscape architecture is a multi-disciplinary domain that uses knowledge of arts, science, ecology and aesthetics to create an integrated solution for global sustainability, environmental resilience and biodiversity conservation. It fuels positive climate change, balances natural and man-made together with promoting economic growth, socio-cultural inclusivity and mitigation of natural calamities contributing towards a sustainable future.
Importance of Landscape Architecture and the Role of Landscape Architects
Landscape Architecture addresses some of the most exigent issues regarding climate change, afforestation, clean food and water resources, infrastructure and energy usage besides solutions for unregulated urbanization and pollution. It enriches space design by adorning outdoor spaces at various scales complimenting indoor space and architecture. Landscape architects thereby are the creators of these lively spaces that promote social, economic and ecological well-being. Green pockets promote leisure activities and impart a sense of calm in chaos essential for community health and welfare.
Previous studies have proved that green spaces enhance mental health and happiness by celebrating the co-existence of nature and lives. Landscape architects play a key role in shaping the environment and sketch risk mitigation strategies to fight unfortunate calamities. Exercising their expertise landscape architects can create a system where stormwater runoff can be managed, and existing water bodies and wetlands can be preserved which in the larger picture balances the food web and preserves the rich global biodiversity.
Often people experience safety and security in well planted lively streets, bays and all outdoor public spaces. Strategically designed landscapes create a green wall for privacy providing a stage for soothing sound and unhindered movement enhancing visual and emotional contentment. Landscape Architects also work towards preserving cultural parks, monuments, gardens and cultural landmarks that narrate stories of the past through designed open spaces.
Sustainable Urbanism Through Landscape Architecture
Landscape Architecture and design are integral parts of Urban Planning and Design ethos. In a world where carbon footprints have become so high, air quality has tremendously degraded and life has been witnessing all sorts of unnaturally forced episodes of obliterated environment, landscape design techniques such as green roofs, urban forests and ample greenery in the cityscape can contribute towards reducing the urban heat island effect and improve the air quality.
Global accordance in tune with Landscape Architects can work towards sustainable development goals with the United Nations to foster inter-ethnic understanding and sustainable policies moving forward by taking action towards building a self-sufficient and endurable future for all.
The Scenario of Landscape Architecture in India
A few decades ago, Landscape architecture was in its infancy with minimal on-site work and professional opportunities. The fraternity was composed of only a handful of professionals and minimal recognition. Often misunderstood and undervalued in comparison to architecture, this profession continued to thrive and today has earned the value it deserves.
Indian Society of Landscape Architects (ISOLA) with its tireless efforts has created a platform for landscape architects and designers to promote the prominence of landscape design and a healthy collaborative environment where Urban planners, designers, architects and Landscape architects together can create noteworthy sustainable spaces with equal footing for all disciplines. The county is growing and so is the need for Landscape Architecture. The operative instrument of integrated geographical, scientific, engineering and cultural data for continuous assimilation through this subject can overcome pressing global and environmental crises. In such rich flora and fauna native to the nation, infinite possible business opportunities can be created by exercising landscape design. Awareness and continuity in world-class execution can foster new hybrid ecologies and innovative synergies between the city and nature.
If the gaps are cautiously identified there is a pool of opportunities in both public and private sectors that can enhance one’s experience as a Landscape Architect. Together can the community rise and serve the nation and the world.
Landscape Architecture is ever-exploring and concurrently deeply rooted in the natural sum and substance. This ambidextrous nature of the subject makes it an ever more urgent necessity. Innovative and unapologetic bold visions from professionals of the landscape realm can be a game changer in reinstating ecological systems and transforming lives for the better towards a sustainable future – A network where all living beings symbiotically co-exist!
References:
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- Landscape Architecture Foundation. (n.d.). Landscape Architecture as Necessity. [online] Available at: https://www.lafoundation.org/resources/2016/07/declaration-kelly-shannon.
- Cockram, M. (2015). Continuing Education: Turenscape Restores an Urban Wetland. [online] Architecturalrecord.com. Available at: https://www.architecturalrecord.com/articles/6730-continuing-education-turenscape-restores-an-urban-wetland [Accessed 16 Feb. 2025].
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- archdaily (2012). Gardens by the Bay / Grant Associates. [online] ArchDaily. Available at: https://www.archdaily.com/254471/gardens-by-the-bay-grant-associates.
- Topos Magazine. (2021). Landscape Architecture India – a reader. [online] Available at: https://toposmagazine.com/landscape-architecture-india/ [Accessed 16 Feb. 2025].
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