Why Experience in the Field Matters in Landscape Design
When it comes to transforming your outdoor space, experience is key. Hands-on experience in the field was a key theme that emerged in ASLA's Professional Practice Networks survey in 2014, asking members: What one characteristic or skill is most essential for success in landscape architecture? (The Field). To quote a response from the survey, "Too many new LA’s have spent time in programs without any real test to what can be done in the real world, and not just their imaginations. Creativity is important, but so is cost.” At Architerra Design Group, most of our landscape design professionals have hands-on experience and have previously worked in some capacity within the construction and nursery industries. This unique blend of design expertise and practical knowledge sets us apart and ensures that your project is executed with the highest quality. Our recent networking session with Soltis Landscaping highlighted the significant value of field experience for design architects. Designers with firsthand knowledge of field operations excel at creating superior landscape designs and producing more effective project plans.
Direct field observation can inspire creative breakthroughs, leading to innovative design solutions. The sensory dimensions of a landscape can be fully comprehended and incorporated into the design process through firsthand experience (University of Edinburgh).
From Concept to Completion
Our designers aren't just skilled in creating stunning designs; they understand the intricacies of the entire landscape design process. This means they can:
Assess Your Property: Evaluate your property's unique features, challenges, and potential.
Develop a Customized Plan: Create a tailored design that aligns with your vision and lifestyle.
Select High-Quality Materials: Choose durable, aesthetically pleasing materials that withstand the elements and abuse from users of these landscape spaces.
Oversee the Installation Process: Work closely with our clients, to ensure that the contractor is following the plans and not “cutting corners”, installing the plans correctly.
Experiences Shared by a Few of Our Field-Experienced Professionals
"I was building terrace walls, planting shrubs, and hammering boards for wood decks from a young age in the Florida panhandle as some of my first work experience. I then did work ranging from on-site boulder work with installing contractors on residential estates to a two years stint at a design/build firm working hand-in hand with contractors from concept sketches through to complete installation. One of my favorite plants is Inland Sea Oats."
"I used to grow my own plants to sell as soon as I knew how. I was a part of the Horticulture unit in college. I also worked in Agave fields in Texas and have done irrigation and planting installation for a local Orchard. I like California Poppies, they're a classic!"
"From 2007 to 2017 I was co-owner of a design-build landscape company holding a corporate A, B, and C-27 contractor’s license. The company focused on both residential and light commercial landscape design and construction projects. My favorite plant is a French Walnut Tree."
"I've worked in plant nurseries in 3 different states, over 5 different planting zones, for over 5 years. I also did landscape design for several clients in Seattle and have quite the extensive home garden. My favorite plant? The orchid of course."
Even the founder of Architerra knows the importance of field experience. Starting in high school, Richard Krumwiede, at age 18, founded Richard Krumwiede Landscapes. Then, while attending college, Richard owned a commercial landscape maintenance and installation company for 6 years. After completing his degree at Cal Poly, Pomona, he then worked at various other firms until he founded Architerra Design Group in 1991. He has over 45 years of landscape design and field experience. This created a solid grounding in the practicalities of the Landscape and Construction Industry, which ultimately served him and Architerra well.
By involving experienced professionals at every stage, we know your landscape project will not only look beautiful but also function at a high capacity.
Ready to Elevate Your Outdoor Space?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced landscape designers. Let's bring your vision to life.
Architerra Design Group
Landscape Architecture and Planning
(909) 484-2800
References: Soltis Landscaping (2024), Aaron Odland (2024), Andrew Krumwiede (2024), Peter Dalman (2024), Clara Boline (2024), Teaching Matters blog;University of Edinburgh (2019), The Field;ASLA Blog (2016)
Credits: Author/Editor: Clara Boline, MBA
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