Landscape architecture

Landscape architects use their design expertise and technical skills to improve our environment, creating vibrant places to live, work and relax.

They transform places - from the most run-down inner city environments to the most sensitive ecological habitats. They design town squares, parks and waterways and all kinds of open space - creating places to live and spaces to breathe.

Case study: Nicola Hammill

"I've helped to shape seafront esplanades, motorway junctions, a new village, a school and a cemetery"

"When I first found out about this career, I loved the idea of creating all kinds of outdoor spaces. These are the spaces that shape so much of our community life.

I get to work on very diverse projects. I could be designing the spaces in and around housing developments, assessing how a water treatment works will affect the landscape or redesigning a town square. I spend a lot of time listening to people - clients and the public - and interpreting their concerns. Then there's a period of intense thinking, planning and designing, and lots of site visits once a project is under way.

It takes a lot of diplomacy to balance everyone's needs, and a lot of skill and thought to make places that improve people's quality of life. It's a big responsibility - but it's also hugely creative and a lot of fun."

Facts and figures

Typical salary

Starting out - up to £20,000; after five years - £30,000+.

Qualifications

Usually at least five GCSEs (including English and either maths or science), plus two A-levels for entry to a degree course accredited by the Landscape Institute (usually an undergraduate degree followed by a year out and a diploma year or an MA).

Two years' professional experience is required before taking the professional practice examination and qualifying for chartered status.

Related careers

  • landscape manager
  • landscape scientist
  • urban designer
  • regeneration specialist

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