The exterior of a home is as important as the interior. The exterior of a home says a lot about the interior and the house. There are endless possibilities when it comes to landscaping. To improve the appearance of a home, it is not necessary to spend much money. Small affordable projects can include mulching, planting beds and borders. However, more advanced and expensive projects are available that include building a koi pond, a patio or even planting more trees. Whether you choose to go cheap or expensive, landscape architecture will be needed to achieve a durable and attractive exterior look for your home.
Landscape architecture
The design of exteriors, landmarks and structures of a house with the aim of achieving both environmental and aesthetic value is referred to as landscape architecture. The process involves a systematic and thorough investigation of the socio-ecological and soil conditions of the area. A design must be chosen to produce the desired result. Landscape architecture is a multi-disciple that incorporates elements of botany, art, architecture and soil sciences and covers areas such as site planning, landscape design, environmental restoration and landscape planning, among others. A professional in the field of landscape architecture is indicated as a landscape architect. A landscape architect has the technical ability and creativity to design,
Origin and history of landscape architecture
Before the 19th century, landscaping was associated with general planning and design of gardens for palaces, government centers, smaller houses and religious complexes. In 1712, Joseph Edison was the first to include landscape design in his writings. The term “landscape architecture” was first used in 1828 by Gilbert Laing Meason. The term was given publicity by John Claudius who adopted it in his encyclopedia. The term was used as a professional title in the United States in the mid-19th century and was used by landscape architects in the late 19th century.
Landscape architecture and urban planning
Urban planning became popular in major cities during the 19th century. The traditional landscape and emerging trends in urban planning have created an opportunity for landscape architecture to meet both needs. In the late 19th century, a series of parks were completed by Fredrick Law Olmsted. The parks continue to influence the practice of landscape architecture and include Central Prospect Parks in New York and Brooklyn respectively. Since then, urban planning and landscape architecture have developed into separate and independent professions. Landscape architecture has developed as a design discipline to include environmental concerns and the quantitative aspect of the site.
Promotion of landscape architecture
In several countries, professional bodies exist to promote interest and protect the reputation of landscape architecture as a profession. Professional bodies also have the power to regulate their own practice to ensure that the required standards are met. The legal requirements that govern the practice vary from country to country with some countries requiring one to be authorized before they can exercise while some have no regulation. In Europe, North America and Australia, the practice of landscape architecture is regulated.
