For many, Landscape Architecture is a profession stumbled upon or a career pursued only by an artistic few. It is an idea which seems unknown, unfamiliar, or possibly even strange. But I would like to let it be known, Landscape Architecture is not meant to be understood by a select group; rather, it is meant to be experienced by all.

Landscape Architecture is a moment many have lived and felt, it is an instant many have seen and heard. It is a drive on the street, a run on the trail, a rest on the patio, a swim on the rooftop, a picnic in the park, a stroll through the plaza; in conclusion, it is the outdoor experience. It creates spaces that capture minds and intensify emotions; it forms places which encourage people to sit and stay, or to run and explore.

As landscape architects, it’s always interesting to hear what people think our profession is about. Usually, people think of landscape architects as either gardeners, landscapers, arborists, or florists. The truth is that we do have knowledge of a wide variety of plants, but knowing about plants and trees is only a small part of what a landscape architect actually does daily.

As an example, I was recently asked about a tree problem in a friend’s garden. Luckily, I could answer the question but only because I’ve seen a lot of tree issues in 35+ years of practicing landscape architecture. Learning about tree or plant problems has been a necessity because it really is more of a test question: answer correctly and you’re an expert, answer incorrectly and your clients will know more than you do. Ouch.