Landscape architecture

Parks, gardens or impressive squares in front of building complexes have the task of not only fulfilling their basic functions but also pleasing the eye of their users. However, it is no easy task to emphasize diversity and create a coherent overall picture for such areas. This challenge is taken up by professionals who invest many years of study and draw on knowledge resources from various fields - from architecture and cultural studies to sociology and ecology. As there are more and more areas that require appropriate design, the demand for professionals in this field is increasing. If you want to combine your future with a promising profession such as landscape architecture, education in this field is an excellent choice.

Who is a landscape architect?

A landscape architect is a person who deals with the design of the human environment, incorporating the natural environment, terrain modeling, vegetation, and architectural and cultural elements of the site. The skillful design of new spaces emphasises functional, esthetic and social values.

What does a landscape architect do?

They are well prepared to work in institutions that evaluate the environmental impact of a particular investment or oversee the revitalisation of urban landscapes. They are also responsible for the planning and maintaining landscape architecture projects in state and municipal authorities. Thanks to their acquired knowledge and skills, they can prepare and implement various types of research and planning documents for the design of landscapes at regional or national level. These include documents for national parks, protected landscape areas, other legally protected areas and historic sites.
In their work, landscape architects often work closely with professionals from related fields such as architecture, civil engineering, surveying, horticulture, agriculture, environmental engineering, ecology and various environmental protection organizations, forming multidisciplinary teams. They also work closely with professionals responsible for their projects' practical implementation.

History of Landscape Architecture

Gardens and parks have been created for thousands of years. However, the development of the profession of landscape architecture began in the 17th century, when complex palatial parks, sacred grounds and government complexes were created in Europe. The gardens of Versailles, commissioned by King Louis XIV and designed by the master André Le Nôtre, are an outstanding example. The term "landscape architecture" itself was coined in 1828 by Gilbert Laing Meason, a Scottish merchant and optimizer of agricultural processes, who published a book on beautiful spatial compositions.
Another Scot, John Claudius Loudon, contributed to popularising deliberate landscape design when he published the first comprehensive work on the theoretical foundations of landscape architecture in 1840. Among other things, he designed gardens for many wealthy contemporaries, cemeteries near Cambridge and Bath and an arboretum in Derby. His works inspired many of his successors, including the creators of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew.

In the second half of the 19th century, the concept of landscape architecture spread to the United States, where it became the subject of publications and practical implementation. The first international organisations that brought together landscape architects from different countries around the world were also founded in America. Gradually, suitable courses of study and professional training were developed.

How much does a landscape architect earn in Switzerland?

The income development of a professional landscape architect is as follows:

In the beginning, a landscape architect working in an office to gain experience can expect a monthly income of between CHF 3,500 and CHF 4,000. As they gain experience and expertise, they are entrusted with larger and more responsible projects, which naturally go hand in hand with a higher income. According to the website lohnspiegel.org, the income of a landscape architect with 5 years of experience is between CHF 4 915 and CHF 6 944 per month.

Another career step could be to set up your own company. Here, of course, the income depends on the type of clients who use our services. However, it can be assumed that the income for self-employed people working for private individuals, public institutions and companies starts at a minimum of CHF 5,000.

How much does a landscape architect earn abroad?

There is no clear answer to the question of how much a landscape architect earns abroad. The salary of a landscape architect can vary greatly in different countries and depends on many factors, such as professional experience, level of education and competition in the labor market. However, there are some general salary trends in this industry in different regions of the world.

Average salary of landscape architects abroad: Landscape architects are professionals who design and plan outdoor spaces, including gardens, parks, playgrounds and recreational areas. Landscape architecture is a field that combines artistic and scientific skills and requires high precision and creative thinking.
In Poland, the average salary for landscape architects in 2021 was around PLN 4000 gross per month.

Surveys have shown that the highest average salaries for landscape architects can be found in Switzerland, with monthly gross salaries ranging from CHF 7,000 to CHF 12,000. In second place is Germany, where salaries range from 3,500 to 6,200 euros, followed by the United States of North America, where wages can range from 4,000 to even 12,000 dollars gross per month.

In Scandinavian countries such as Norway and Sweden, average salaries for landscape architects range from NOK 40,000 to NOK 80,000 and SEK 34,000 to SEK 65,000, respectively. In the Netherlands, salaries vary between 3,000 and 6,500 euros per month, while in France, they range between 2,500 and 7,000 euros.
However, it is essential to know that the salary level depends not only on the location of the landscape architect, but also on the size of the company and the individual career path. Suppose you choose to work as a landscape architect abroad. In that case, you should be prepared for cultural differences and adapt your work to the requirements of the local municipality or governmental zoning regulations.

In summary, there are many benefits to choosing to work abroad as a landscape architect. However, before deciding to relocate, you should carefully consider your skills and professional qualifications, considering cultural differences and the cost of living. It is advisable to find out about current salaries for landscape architects abroad and consider cultural differences and the cost of living.

What do you understand by landscape architecture?

A landscape architect is responsible for the design of the human environment, taking into account the natural surroundings: the terrain model, the vegetation as well as the architecture and cultural elements of a particular place. The aim is to emphasize the diversity and beauty of the surroundings and create a harmonious overall composition. In their work, landscape architects draw on knowledge from many different fields, from biology and ecology to sociology, cultural studies and architecture.

The space they design can be the garden of a private home, urban green areas or a large urban project in the city center. A landscape architect must plan carefully and be responsible for the implementation of many elements. He should create a space in which the vegetation (either existing or deliberately selected) harmonises with architectural elements (existing or planned). The overall picture should be visually perfect and characterised by innovative solutions and ergonomic design.

The landscape architect's ideas are implemented in the plans he draws up. This includes site planning, material selection, color design and the selection of plants, taking into account their characteristics (size, adaptation to weather conditions, flower color, etc.). A landscape architect's tasks also include assessing a particular project's environmental impact, especially for larger urban projects. All plans must be prepared carefully and with respect to natural resources in order to avoid or at least minimise environmental damage caused by excessive human intervention.

What qualities should a landscape architect have?

Every landscape architect should have innate skills for the profession. Landscape architecture combines artistic and technical aspects, which is why design skills are a great advantage. The most crucial quality a prospective landscape architect should have is spatial awareness. A strong sense of esthetics, creativity and precision are also required. A landscape architect should also be technically adept, have extensive scientific knowledge and a passion for plant cultivation. Landscape architecture is a profession that requires constant development and the acquisition of new skills.

A good landscape architect should have the following qualities in addition to their technical skills:

  • Sensitivity to the quality of the landscape
  • Understanding of art and humanistic approach to design
  • The ability to analyse design problems
  • Management skills and the ability to act ethically in the profession
  • Creativity – every design direction requires innovative thinking
  • Craftsmanship – not only for the entrance exam when drawing or creating a portfolio, but also during studies and in professional practice
  • Developed spatial imagination
  • Observation skills and the ability to foresee potential problems
  • Precision
  • Independence
  • Openness towards people and the environment
  • Persuasiveness in communicating ideas and arguments.

These qualities and skills are crucial for the success of a landscape architect in their profession.

What does it mean to become a landscape architect?
What is the field of work of a landscape architect?

The field of work of a landscape architect is very diverse. They create designs and programs to develop urban green spaces, parks, residential areas, squares, promenades, sports grounds and playgrounds. They design botanical gardens, gardens for houses and residential complexes as well as inner courtyards and roof terraces. They also design the space around public buildings, traffic routes, cycle paths and viewpoints. They are involved in all phases of project realisation, including supervising construction, demolition and landscaping works to ensure compliance with project specifications.

What do you need to study landscape architecture?

APPLICANT SUITABILITY
The most important things are motivation and ... imagination. A landscape architect must be able to think spatially and draw technically. To be successful in this profession, extensive scientific knowledge and a love of plant cultivation are also required. Without love and passion, this work will not only be exhausting, but also less effective. Aesthetic sensitivity, creativity, diligence and accuracy at work are also required.

What is the social status of a landscape architect?

The profession of landscape architect is held in high esteem. This profession combines rigorous technical knowledge with room for the development of artistic expression. Nowadays, there is a growing awareness of the importance of nature in life, and the importance of green spaces in the midst of concrete jungles is becoming increasingly clear.Therefore, A landscape architect has unlimited possibilities in designing parks, gardens and outdoor facilities for companies and new residential areas.
The title of landscape architect is awarded upon completion of an engineering degree. However, getting started is difficult, as the recruitment process usually involves a technical aptitude test. In the course of your studies, you will acquire knowledge in areas such as mathematics, ecology, biology, drawing and sculpture, history, nature conservation, law, urban planning, computer technology and many others. The degree programmes are very diverse, making them prestigious and requiring student commitment. To become a landscape architect, you also need other skills: Knowledge of CAD programmes, cost estimating, a driver's licence and knowledge of construction and architectural issues.

There is no specialisation in the first study cycle; this is chosen in the second study cycle. There are many possibilities: the design of landscape architecture objects, parks, recreation centres, squares and the development of urban and rural areas.

To begin a career as a landscape architect, a bachelor's degree is required, which can be obtained in fields such as horticulture, botany or landscape design. In most cases, the most common degree to become a landscape architect is a degree in landscape architecture. A degree in landscape architecture provides the most comprehensive knowledge to become a landscape architect. That's why our best landscape architecture schools offer a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture.

Here are the best universities in the world to study landscape architecture:

  • Texas A&M University
  • University of Greenwich
  • Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
  • University of Florida
  • University of New South Wales
  • Cornell University
  • University of California
  • University of Gloucestershire
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Connecticut
  • Purdue University
  • University of Illinois
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison

What are the best landscape architecture schools in the world?

If you have ever been to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne or Central Park in New York, you will appreciate how nature can beautify large spaces. You may even be so inspired that you want to attend one of the best landscape architecture schools, colleges or universities in the world to become a landscape architect. Landscape architects are an important part of the landscape architecture industry.

They specialise in the design of green spaces, bodies of water and other outdoor areas. The landscape architecture industry in the United States is thriving because it is directly linked to the demand for the construction and renovation of residential and commercial buildings. This is also true for many other countries, especially in Asia. According to Land8.com, the demand for landscape architects is very high in countries such as India, Australia, Denmark, the United Arab Emirates and China. You will work on exciting projects and earn well if you secure a job in one of these countries.

To land an exciting job, you will need a degree from a reputable university or university as well as professional experience. That's why we are introducing you to the best landscape architecture schools in the world.

Criteria for the ranking

Our criteria for ranking the best landscape architecture degree programmes are:

Accredited bachelor's degree programmes: since you only need a bachelor's degree to pursue a career as a landscape architect, we have selected accredited universities worldwide that offer at least a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture.

Research facilities: Universities and colleges with extensive research facilities to support research activities in landscape design and architecture receive a higher rating than those with fewer resources.

Internship opportunities: Internships are very important for architects and landscape architects. Therefore, schools with clear internship opportunities are rated higher than schools without these opportunities.

Scholarships: Education can be expensive, especially when choosing the best schools. That's why we consider schools that help students cover the cost of education.

To become a landscape architect, you need a passion for outdoor spaces and a sense of aesthetics. But that alone is not enough. To become a landscape architect, you need a bachelor's degree in landscape architecture, horticulture or plant science.

Regardless of which country you choose to study landscape architecture in, you should consider both quality and cost. If time and convenience are your priorities, you may also consider a postgraduate programme or an online school for landscape architecture.

The road to becoming a landscape architect can be quite long, but it offers extremely interesting career prospects. Original playgrounds, parks and beautiful green spaces along promenades result from skilled people with passion and imagination - and you could be one of them!

If you are interested in the subject of green spaces in urban areas, be it in your small garden or at your home, but do not feel like investing years in formal training, I invite you to take a look at my blog. There, you will find many topics on beautifying your space quickly.

Wo finde ich Arbeit als Architekt?

Durchsuchen Sie Online-Stellenangebote: Websites wie Swiss Architects, Indeed oder LinkedIn bieten Tausende von Stellenangeboten für Architekten an. Sie können Stellenangebote nach Standort, Qualifikationsanforderungen und Erfahrungslevel durchsuchen.

Bewerben Sie sich bei Architekturfirmen: Suchen Sie eine Liste von Architekturfirmen in Ihrer Region und bewerben Sie sich bei ausgewählten Firmen. Sie können solche Unternehmen über eine Internetsuche oder Firmenverzeichnisse finden.

Teilen Sie Ihr Portfolio: Wenn Sie ein Portfolio haben, können Sie es auf sozialen Netzwerken wie Behance, Pinterest oder Instagram teilen. Dadurch können potenzielle Arbeitgeber Ihre Projekte sehen und Ihre Fähigkeiten bewerten.
Nutzen Sie Ihr Netzwerk: Sie können Ihre beruflichen und persönlichen Kontakte nutzen, um über Stellenangebote zu erfahren. Informieren Sie Ihre Freunde darüber, dass Sie als Architekt Arbeit suchen, und bitten Sie um Unterstützung bei der Jobsuche.

Von meiner Seite aus kann ich auch empfehlen, nach Jobs zu suchen, indem Sie Ihr Portfolio und Ihren Lebenslauf an Unternehmen senden, deren Architektur Ihren Erwartungen und Ihrem Stil entspricht. Manchmal suchen Unternehmen zu einem bestimmten Zeitpunkt keine Mitarbeiter, aber wenn Ihr ästhetisches Empfinden ähnlich ist, können Sie darauf hoffen, dass Ihre Unterlagen berücksichtigt werden.

Wer sind die berühmtesten Architekten? Wer ist der berühmteste Architekt der Welt?

Le Corbusier (Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris)
Ein französisch-schweizerischer Architekt, der von 1887 bis 1965 lebte. Er entwarf sein erstes Gebäude bereits im Alter von 18 Jahren. Er ist der Autor des Modulor-Konzepts zur Proportionierung in der Architektur und ein Vorreiter des Modernismus. Er entwarf viele mutige Pläne für den Städtebau und Stadtviertel.

Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959)
Ein Vorreiter der organischen Architektur, die Natur in das Design integriert. Er ist der Autor des Guggenheim-Museums für moderne Kunst in New York und sein berühmtestes Werk ist wohl das "Fallingwater" Haus. Er entwarf mehr als 1100 Gebäude. Es wird empfohlen, sich eine Dokumentation über den Architekten Frank Lloyd Wright anzusehen, die zwar lang, aber lohnenswert ist, da sie einen großen Einblick in die Geschichte der Architektur und ihre Entwicklung bietet.

Walter Gropius (1883-1969)
Einer der vier Gründer des Bauhaus und ein Wegbereiter der modernen Architektur. Er förderte den Einsatz von Glas in großem Maßstab. Es wird empfohlen, das Buch "Pełnia architektury" zu lesen und den Film "Bauhaus The Face of the 20th Century" anzusehen.
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886-1969)
Der geistige Vater der minimalistischen und brutalistischen Architektur. Sein bekanntes Motto "Weniger ist mehr" ist bis heute populär, nicht nur in der Architektur. Er war ein Verfechter der Stahl- und Glaskonstruktionen und entwarf unter anderem das Barcelona Pavilion. Sein Name steht für den renommierten Mies-van-der-Rohe-Preis in der Architektur.

Jean Nouvel (geboren 1845)
Eines seiner bekanntesten Bauwerke ist der ungewöhnlich geformte Torre Agbar in Barcelona. Er erhielt den Pritzker-Preis für sein Gesamtwerk. Interessant ist, dass er die Architekturprüfung nicht bestanden hat; erst ein gewonnener Wettbewerb ermöglichte ihm das Studium ohne Aufnahmeprüfung.

Daniel Libeskind (geboren 1946)
Seine Architektur wird dem Dekonstruktivismus zugerechnet. Er ist der Autor des Jüdischen Museums in Berlin und des berühmten Royal Ontario Museum.
Norman Foster (geboren 1935)
Beeinflusst von Le Corbusier und Frank Lloyd Wright begann er ein Architekturstudium. Fast die Hälfte der beeindruckendsten Wolkenkratzer weltweit stammt von ihm. Foster & Partners haben über 300 Preise und Auszeichnungen erhalten und 60 nationale und internationale Wettbewerbe gewonnen. Es wird empfohlen, den faszinierenden Dokumentarfilm über seine Architektur und sein Leben mit dem Titel "How much does your building weight, Mr. Foster?" anzusehen.

Ieoh Ming Pei
Er entwarf im Stil des Modernismus und Postmodernismus und gehört zu den letzten Architekten, die in der Ära des Modernismus tätig waren. Er erhielt 1983 den Pritzker-Preis und ist der Autor der berühmten Glaspyramide im Louvre sowie anderer bedeutender Projekte wie die Bank of China in Hongkong und die Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.

Dies sind nur einige der vielen herausragenden Architekten, die einen einzigartigen Beitrag zur Architekturwelt geleistet haben. Jeder von ihnen hat auf seine Weise die Architektur und das Design beeinflusst.

Wenn wir über die bekanntesten zeitgenössischen Architekten weltweit sprechen, dürfen wir die Rolle der schweizerischen Architekten wie Peter Zumthor, Mario Botta, Jacques Herzog, Pierre de Meuron, Luigi Snozzi und Roger Diener nicht übersehen.
Architekt Basel
Basel, als Hauptsitz des weltweit bekannten Architekturbüros Herzog & de Meuron, ragt in Bezug auf die Anzahl der Architekturbüros in der Schweiz heraus - es gibt hier viele. Dies überrascht nicht, wenn man bedenkt, dass die Stadt für die weltweit größte Messe für zeitgenössische Kunst, die Art Basel, bekannt ist und den Ruf einer Kunststadt hat.
Architekt Zürich

Auch Zürich führt in Bezug auf Architekturbüros, und das liegt daran, dass die Stadt eine der größten Städte in der Schweiz ist. Die Sitze von Büros wie Christian Kerez, EM2N und Enzmann Fischer befinden sich gerade in dieser Stadt.

Architekt Chur
Wenn wir über Architekten in der Schweiz sprechen, dürfen wir eine der bekanntesten Bergstädte nicht übersehen, nämlich die Gegend um Chur, genauer gesagt das kleine Dorf Haldenstein, in dem der Pritzker-Preisträger Peter Zumthor sein Büro hat. Praktisch jeder junge Architekturstudent würde gerne von diesem charismatischen Architekten unterrichtet werden, Praktika in seinem Büro absolvieren und von der von Zumthor entworfenen Architektur umgeben sein.
Architekt Bern
Bern, obwohl es auf der Landkarte der Schweiz eine wichtige Regierungsstadt ist, hat nicht so viele bekannte Konkurrenzarchitekturbüros auf seiner Karte. Es gibt jedoch einige kleinere Büros, die mit ihrer Architektur viele Investoren anziehen.

Die Architektur in der Schweiz hat etwas Besonderes an sich, und hier werden einige der führenden Architekten der Welt geboren und erzogen - das ist sicherlich kein Zufall. Deshalb lade ich Sie ein, meinen Blog und mein Instagram-Profil zu verfolgen. Neben Tipps, wie Sie Ihren Raum optimieren können, werde ich sicherlich auch den Schweizer Architekturphänomen genauer betrachten.

Bis bald!