African American landscape architects are an innovative group who, with their innovative ideas and creativity, help the society in a big way. Their distinct style has evolved through the years and now encompasses designs, landscaping ideas, and even construction. They are at the forefront of landscaping planning and design. Their contributions have been recognized by the State of Florida, which has bestowed upon them the rank of a certified Landscape Architect.
As a Certified Landscape Designer, one is given the responsibility of coming up with a landscape design that will suit the specific needs of a particular locality or community. A good example would be a golf course layout, designed so that the playing area can be adjusted according to the weather. The landscape designer also analyzes the natural resources that will be required for the development of a certain area. This is very important as well as essential since there may be vegetation issues or other issues that need to be considered before embarking upon the landscaping design. These landscaping designers are equipped with the knowledge on botany, geography, ecology, mathematics, physics, and design, among others.
It is common for these professionals to get their start as interns in a landscaping design company where they are provided with the chance to experiment and explore new ideas. Later on, they might branch out and set up their own landscaping firm. But it’s better if they start off with an internship program. It helps in improving their creativity and knowledge about landscaping design. And this also boosts their morale and gives them the confidence to begin to create their own ideas.
When working on a landscaping design, African American landscaping designers should always use their own imagination and creativity. Their landscaping ideas should be different from those of the general contractors. The landscaping should be such that it stands out from the rest. It should have a distinctive look that is different but blends with the environment and the surrounding landscape. This will increase the chances of being called for an interview during a job search.
Landscaping design has its roots in the ancient art of architecture. It involves the integration of nature into the built environment for a natural flow of growth and life. In the hands of a good landscaper, a simple garden or a pergola can turn a drab lot into a great oasis of lush greenery and flowers. They can transform even an unusable piece of land into one that is both useful and beautiful.
The African American landscaping design process does not start with the construction of the actual structures. It begins with research. They should study the localities demographics and the natural environment of the area. They should gather as much information as possible to form a good base for the landscape design, they are about to create. This includes studying and collecting local plants and wildlife, the topography and the current topography of the area.
Then they should begin to analyze the needs of the people living in the area. This includes understanding their lifestyle, what they need and how best to meet these needs. For example, they might consider the fact that some people need shade during the hot summer months. Therefore, the design chosen will take into consideration the layout and shape of the structure and the location where it will be situated.
The final stage is the erection phase. This involves erecting the structure, masonry work and the landscaping design. It also involves bringing the various materials together like the soil, rocks, gravel and the vegetation. This will all have an impact on how well the structure is put together and how well it blends in with the surroundings. Landscape architecture does not just describe a product, it describes a way of doing things.