Addis Ababa science and

Technology University
College of Architecture and civil Engineering
Department Architecture

Landscape Design
[ARCH3118]
Instructor: Edengenet Shetie
COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course explores the theory and practice of landscape design for students . It
also meets the need of students in allied disciplines in the built environment as a
course that treats the design, enhancement of the landscape of the open spaces.

As a theory course, it is intended to impart the history,

concepts & components on the design of the outdoors of
the built environment. As a practical course, it is designed
to enhance students’ understanding of the
constructability of conceptualized outdoor environments
for enjoyable human use.
Topics to be covered include elements of landscape design; the nature, needs and
objectives of landscape design; the relationship between building design and
landscape architecture; garden in history and use of natural elements in
landscape design to sensitize the students in designing with nature.
COURSE OBJECTIVES

Sensitize the students in designing with nature.

COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES / COMPETENCIES
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
(Knowledge based)
 enumerate and discuss the elements of landscape design;
 explain the nature, needs and objectives of landscape planning;
 understand the relationship between building design and
landscape architecture;
 discuss garden in history and their design principles;
 relate landscape development and ecology;

(Skills)
 design various types of outdoor spaces for specific human use;
 design with nature;
 Formulate design considerations for different land uses, planning,
and management.
Chapter 1:Introduction to Landscape Chapter 5:Landscape Design & Practice
Architecture and Definitions  Types and Forms of Landscapes
 Definition  Open Spaces and Criteria for Classification
 Significance  Landscape design procedures; Site
Chapter 2:Landscape Design elements & Inventory & analysis, conceptual design,…
Principles Chapter 6: Landscaping materials
 Elements of Landscape Design; Color,  Plant Materials/Planting
Line, Form, Texture, Scale Design/Morphological Character and
 Principles of Landscape Design; function, Habit of Growth, Distribution
Proportion, Order, Unity, Repetition Situation, Cultivate Techniques
 Elements of space organization  Natural Enrichment Items
 Chapter 3: Landscape Graphics  Hardscaping Materials
 Introduction to the tools and techniques Chapter 7: Landscape Development and
 Sketches for Form Ecology;
 Colors for plant and construction  Environmental Conservation
materials
 Graphic symbols for textures
Chapter 4: Garden in History & styles
 Evolution of Landscape architecture
 History & style of gardens
Course activities
Major Topics activity Schedule Assessments
Chapter 1:Introduction to Landscape -Lecture Week 1
Architecture and Definitions
Quiz
Chapter 2:Landscape Design elements & -Lecture Week 2
Principles

Chapter 3: Landscape Graphics -Lecture Week 3-4 Studio assignment

-Studio

Chapter 4: Garden in History & styles -Lecture Week 5 Group presentation & Exam
-Group
Presentation

Chapter 5:Landscape Design & Practice -Lecture  Landscape design

-Studio project
-Field exercise -1 Quick design
project[individual]
Chapter 6: Landscaping materials -Lecture
Week 6-11 1-maljor project[individual]
-Studio
 Site visit report
-Site visit

Chapter 7: Landscape Development and -Lecture Week 12 Test

Ecology;

Assessment(100%)=Quiz(5%)+Test(5%)+ group work(10%)+ +individual assignments(30)+ final exam (50%)

Reference:
Bradley E Cantrell, Justine Holzman, (2015). Responsive Landscapes: Strategies for Responsive Technologies in Landscape
Architecture,
Barry Starke & John Ormsbee Simonds, (2013). Landscape Architecture, Fifth Edition: A Manual of Environmental Planning and
Design 5th Edition,
Bruce Sharky, (2016). Thinking about Landscape Architecture: Principles of a Design Profession for the 21st Century,
Marc Treib, (2011). Meaning in Landscape Architecture and Gardens
DK (2017). Encyclopedia of Landscape Design: Planning, Building, and Planting Your Perfect Outdoor Space,
Adam Frost, (2020). How to Create Your Garden: Ideas and Advice for Transforming Your Outdoor Space,
Landscape design academy, (2020). Landscaping for beginners: the step-by-step guide to create a perfect outdoor space. Plan &
plant the garden, design the patio and build your favorite walkways, walls and fountains,
Norman Booth, (2011). Foundations of Landscape Architecture: Integrating Form and Space Using the Language of Site Design
1st Edition,
Tim Waterman, ( 2020).The Fundamentals of Landscape Architecture:
Nancy Rottle , ( 2011). Basics Landscape Architecture 02: Ecological Design 0th Edition
Chapter 1:Introduction to Landscape Architecture
 Definition
 Significance
What is Landscape?
 A landscape is the visible features of an area of land,
its landforms, and how they integrate with natural or man-
made features, often considered in terms of their aesthetic
appeal.

A landscape includes the physical elements of

 geophysically defined landforms such as mountains, hills, water
bodies such as rivers, lakes, ponds and the sea,
 living elements of land cover including indigenous vegetation, wildlife's ….
 human elements including different forms of land use, buildings,
and structures,

landscapes reflect a living synthesis of people and place that is

vital to local and national identity.
 The character of a landscape helps define the self-image of the people who
inhabit it and a sense of place that differentiates one region from other
regions. It is the dynamic backdrop to people's lives.

 Landscape can be as varied as farmland, a landscape park or wilderness.

The Earth has a vast range of landscapes, including the icy landscapes
of polar regions, mountainous landscapes, vast
arid desert landscapes, islands, and coastal landscapes,
densely forested or wooded landscapes including past boreal
forests and tropical rainforests, and agricultural landscapes
of temperate and tropical regions.

 The activity of modifying the visible features of an area of land

is referred to as landscaping.
What is Landscape Design?
Landscape design is an independent profession and
combines nature and culture.
Landscape design focuses on both the integrated master landscape
planning of a property and the specific garden design of landscape
elements and plants within it.

The practical, aesthetic, horticultural, and environmental sustainability are

also gears of landscape design,
Components of Landscape design
 hardscape design
Hardscaping is the non-living elements of a landscape design such as walkways,
patios, retaining walls, firepits, and driveways. Some elements of hardscaping serve
purely practical purposes to create well-defined land areas suitable for planting.
Hardscaping elements take on different forms based on a homeowner’s preference.
Landscape design companies will offer a variety of hardscaping materials so your
project can include different elements to fit the look of your landscape.
Hardscape martials :Wood, Concrete,Brick,pvers/Tile, Stone, Pavers

 softscape design
Softscaping elements include all the perennial and/or annual plants in your landscape
design. This includes your grass, trees, and the soil. Well-planned softscaping should
create an optimal balance of living plants within the hardscape structures.
Planning considerations should include seasonal issues, such as frost or heat. Many
landscape designs incorporate plants to capture the color of the seasons, along with
others that can be enjoyed year-round.
Softscape maintenance and management includes:Weed removal,Mowing,Grading and
Drainage,Planting,Aerating,Pruning and Trimming,Watering,Fertilizing
 Landscape design works collaborate with related
disciplines such as architecture, civil
engineering, surveying, electrical engineer, sanitary
engineer, horticulturist, artisan specialties etc based
on the project type & purpose.
Landscape architecture is the design of outdoor areas, landmarks,
and structures to achieve environmental, social-behavioural, or
aesthetic outcomes. It involves the systematic design and general
engineering of various structures for construction and human use,
investigation of existing social, ecological, and soil conditions and
processes in the landscape, and the design of other interventions that
will produce desired outcomes.

Landscape architecture involves the planning, design,

management, and nurturing of the built and natural
environments. With their unique skill set, landscape architects
work to improve human and environmental health in all
communities. They plan and design parks, campuses,
streetscapes, trails, plazas, residences, and other projects that
strengthen communities.
A practitioner in the profession of landscape architecture is called
a’ landscape architect’.
Landscape Design Vs Landscape architecture

Landscape design typically involves artistic composition and artisanship,

horticultural finesse and expertise, and emphasis on detailed site involvement
from conceptual stages through to final construction.

Landscape architecture focuses more on urban planning, city and regional

parks, civic and corporate landscapes, large scale interdisciplinary projects,
and delegation to contractors after completing designs.
 Significance of Landscape architecture & design
Nature Preservation – The most significant advantage of having a
landscape is the preservation of nature. Urban architecture is full of concrete
flooring; people have started acknowledging the importance of plants and
trees in their lives. Landscaping offers solutions to various environmental
issues, and protects natural resources and ecology.
Reduces Pollution – A smart garden helps in reducing pollutants in the
environment. Many manufacturing companies have come forward to adopt a
garden in their architecture. In other words, landscaping helps in purification
of the air in the nearby areas. They help purify both outdoor and indoor air
quality.
Protects Plants – Plants are a vital part of our biological life cycle.
Landscaping allows different species of plants to flourish in their natural
habitat, free of pests. They are provided with an adequate amount of water,
good quality of soil, and sunlight to grow and nurture. It also helps in
protecting endangered plant species that carry medicinal properties.
Protection from Heat – We find comfort in a tree shade during scorching seasons.
This shows the importance of plants and trees in our lives. Landscaping offers the
concept of pocket parks or small parks that allow people to relax from their hectic
urban lifestyle. This is, again, an excellent idea to promote greenery in the concrete
cities.
Water Management – We are fast running out of wetlands. The situation can be
controlled with the help of planned and smart landscapes. Wetlands are responsible
for controlling floods and managing biological diversity. Landscapes are a natural
way to curb this issue.
Offers Outdoor Recreation – Landscapes are an excellent means of outdoor
recreation. This will boost the physical well-being of the local population. Kids can
enjoy playing in these landscapes, and can learn about conservation of the
environment.
Boosts Mental Health – Sitting for some time in the lap of nature can have a
positive impact on a person and his state of mind. This exercise enhances the
productivity of working individuals by boosting their confidence and concentration
levels. In other words, more green spaces indicate better psychological health.
Thanks