Landscape architects and designers are two professions that often get confused with each other. Although both professionals work in outdoor spaces, their job roles and responsibilities are quite different. If you are planning to undertake any outdoor project, it is essential to understand the differences between these two professions to decide which one will be the best fit for your project.
Landscape Architects: What Do They Do?
Landscape architects design outdoor spaces, primarily large-scale projects, such as parks, college campuses, and other public spaces. They possess at least a bachelor’s degree and have expertise in various areas, including engineering, management, architecture, art, and environmental planning. Their primary responsibilities include creating detailed plans and drawings related to the design of large-scale outdoor landscaping projects, providing cost estimates that include landscaping supplies, labour and permits, presenting plans, and evaluating gardening spaces and plants.
Landscape architects also plan, coordinate, and execute outdoor design projects with large-scale teams. Their main aim is to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space while ensuring that it is sustainable and environmentally friendly. They also work closely with other professionals, including contractors, engineers, and urban planners.
Landscape Designers: What Do They Do?
Landscape designers are responsible for designing outdoor spaces with a detailed understanding of blending such areas with the natural environment. They possess a thorough knowledge of the materials required for gardening, including soil, plants, fertilizer, compost, etc. Landscape designers typically work on residential and private spaces, including outdoor residential gardens and related private spaces.
The primary responsibilities of a landscape designer include creating concept designs for residential projects, outdoor property evaluation, advising on garden maintenance, cost evaluation for outdoor projects, working with contractors and architects, assisting with issues related to soil and water conservation, and advising clients on plants and other natural materials related to gardening.
Key Differences between Landscape Architects and Designers
Education and Licensing: Landscape architects require at least a bachelor’s degree, while landscape designers do not. No specific educational background is necessary to become a landscape designer. However, education in relevant fields such as horticulture will benefit landscape designers.
Scope of Work: Although landscape architects can work on residential projects, they are typically qualified to execute large-scale and commercial landscaping projects, including public spaces such as parks, college campuses, plazas, and trails. In contrast, landscape designers are limited to smaller projects, including outdoor residential gardens and related private spaces. Typically, landscape designers work solo or in small teams.
Level of Detail: Landscape architects have more responsibilities towards the level of detail they have to provide in their landscaping plans and drawings. This can range from advising clients on permits and regulations to providing advanced counsel regarding draining and energy usage for public spaces. While landscape designers might not provide this level of detail, especially for larger projects, they offer more detail in the outdoor gardening process for residential spaces.
Role in Construction: Landscape architects have a more prominent role in the construction process than landscape designers. Landscape architects will typically work with the construction team throughout the execution phase. Meanwhile, the role of landscape designers is limited to the design phase.
Compensation: Landscape architects cost more to hire than landscape designers. This is due to various factors, such as their more extensive scope of work, requiring more knowledge of regulations, involvement in the construction process, and educational background.
Planning Your Next Garden Project in Calgary
If you’re a homeowner looking to enhance your yard and transform it into a beautiful outdoor space, we recommend hiring a landscape designer. With their expertise in blending the natural environment with outdoor spaces, a landscape designer can help you achieve the look and feel you desire for your yard.
When planning your project, don’t forget to consider the necessary gardening materials such as soil, mulch, and gravel. Fortunately, Wondertote offers a convenient solution for your gardening needs. Our totes come in 1 cubic yard size and can be delivered straight to your driveway or parking pad in the back alley. We offer fast delivery in Calgary and area of soil, mulch, and gravel.
In summary, understanding the roles and responsibilities of landscape architects and designers can help you decide who to hire for your project. Whether it’s a large-scale commercial project or a small residential one, each professional has a specific skill set that can contribute to the success of your outdoor space. Remember to consider the necessary gardening materials for your project, and for your convenience, Wondertote is your go-to source for high-quality supplies delivered to your project.
