Here are the winners of the 4th Annual Social Media Awards in Landscape Architecture presented by Land8 and the American Society of Landscape Architects! Social media has the power to significantly increase the awareness and importance of the profession of landscape architecture, and Land8 and ASLA believe industry leaders in social media should be recognized and promoted. Be sure to follow the winners to help grow and promote the profession!
Top 10 Social Media Accounts – LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE FIRMS
Top 10 Social Media Accounts – INDIVIDUAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
Top 10 Social Media Accounts – ALLIED ORGANIZATIONS
2020 Winners >
2019 Winners >
2018 Winners >
Please visit Land8 again in December 2022 for next year’s call for nominations!
In landscape architecture, many of the available software options seem to specialize in individual areas, requiring an investment in add-ons to enable more holistic workflows. This comes as a sticking point for many landscape architecture firms whose work spans beyond 2D drawings and plans. Vectorworks Landmark is known for being an all-in-one solution, which means landscape architects can work without having to invest in additional software. In this article, you’ll hear from three landscape architects who’ve switched to Vectorworks Landmark and are now benefiting from more streamlined workflows.
The first firm is SiteWorks, who are based in New York City and provide a variety of landscape architecture services, including project scheduling/budgeting and construction implementation.
Next is Surface 678, who have received three awards from the North Carolina ASLA in 2020. Surface 678 works on projects in the academic, cultural, civic, corporate, healthcare, senior living, and recreation markets, and have been using Vectorworks since 2019.
Third is the Idaho-based firm BYLA, who’ve been designing eye-catching outdoor spaces since 2006.
Let’s see why each firm made the switch.
Can you share some workflow pain points you and your firm experienced before Vectorworks Landmark?
Jordan Guerrero, ASLA, AEP, ASLA NY Board Member, Landscape Designer at SiteWorks
We do a lot of cost estimates and takeoffs in our projects, and our previous software wasn’t able to do the kind of digital terrain modeling and cut/fill analysis that we felt was necessary for our documentation needs. Working across multiple platforms to accomplish these things was a definite pain point for us.
Phillip Tripp, PLA, Senior Landscape Architect at Surface 678
We used to work in AutoCAD for black-lined construction drawings and basic color-toned conceptual plans. Over time, as architects and civil engineers started using Revit and Civil 3D, there were layers of complexity and special requests for files in formats best suited for AutoCAD. It never felt as inclusive and coordinated with Revit and Civil 3D as we had hoped.
Glenaire Retirement Community in Cary, North Carolina. Courtesy of Surface 678.
Scott Lebsack, PLA, ASLA, Landscape Architect at BYLA
I came to realize that AutoCAD wasn’t using the resources available in a modern computer. It only allowed me to draft with a set of digital tools that mimicked the physical tools I was familiar with. It only nodded at modeling, which wasn’t easy to use. I tried to use block attributes to create plant schedules and “smart irrigation” blocks, but the tools for creating and interacting with extra data weren’t well implemented and didn’t seem to be encouraged.
Why did you decide on Vectorworks Landmark?
Jordan Guerrero (SiteWorks) — Vectorworks Landmark is very finely tuned to the needs of landscape architects in terms of tools and features. We were also really drawn to having an all-in-one solution, one that enables BIM workflows, too, because other countries are already requiring it and now it’s coming to us.
Phillip Tripp (Surface 678) — The lightbulb moment was realizing Vectorworks designed Landmark specifically for landscape architects, with native tools and features that are integral to our process. In contrast, with AutoCAD, we’d have to invest in separate add-on applications for each license in the office.
Scott Lebsack (BYLA) — Having software that replaces SketchUp and provides tools specifically for planting, grading, and irrigation in a single package is critical for streamlining the work we do. Everything is contained in a single working file; my design and my model are the same thing. My time in Vectorworks is spent designing. I don’t “draft” anymore.
What’s the biggest difference you experience in your everyday workflows?
Jordan Guerrero (SiteWorks) — The biggest thing for us is being able to do digital terrain modeling for cut/fill analysis. Our ultimate goal is to lead our practice with technology, and the landscape-focused features in Vectorworks Landmark allow us to do that.
Phillip Tripp (Surface 678) — There are three big changes I’d call out. The first is replacing AutoCAD files with references to allow multiple people to work simultaneously with a single Vectorworks Project Sharing file.
The second is capitalizing on the dual system of organizing data — classes and layers — to exponentially increase our ability to develop conceptual options quickly in a clear and manageable way, from simple diagrams to full construction alternates; all while simultaneously keeping presentation quality graphics current without ever leaving Vectorworks. Additionally, our more complex projects are using Vectorworks site modeling and freeform modeling features in conjunction with Twinmotion to produce highly detailed flythrough videos for clients, without the need to use SketchUp or Rhino.
Glenaire Retirement Community in Cary, North Carolina. Courtesy of Surface 678.
The third is the use of Vectorworks’ resource library to actively manage our plant library and detail library, which improves our ability to provide quality assurance standards across all projects — a Vectorworks benefit that will continue to improve as we expand our office standards.
Scott Lebsack (BYLA) — Modeling and plant tools are the biggest improvements. I haven’t had to manually count plants in several years. I’m able to model a project and cut sections and elevations to show different aspects that change with the project. Ultimately, the largest change (which is a very simple one) is having fills associated with lines. I haven’t spent time in several years struggling to hatch something.
In what ways does Vectorworks Landmark help you perform your job responsibilities to the highest level?
Jordan Guerrero (SiteWorks) — When we look at a site model, we’re really focusing on the real-world implications of how everything interacts. That’s why digital terrain modeling and cut/fill analysis are so important to us. They allow us to better understand the site, its elevations, and what those elevations mean when it comes to design services.
Phillip Tripp (Surface 678) — Exceeding client expectations requires success in multiple ways; but in general, it’s high quality graphics and options in a timely manner which Vectorworks has proven more than capable, including expanding our services from high end perspectives to complete models, which clients have used for marketing in every case.
Scott Lebsack (BYLA) — Plant tools, worksheets, class and layer management all streamline the work I do every day. They allow me to be more efficient with my time and more consistent with my drawings.
Poolside Patio courtesy of BYLA.
Have there been any challenges since switching? If so, how have you addressed them?
Jordan Guerrero (SiteWorks) — We have to be very open about our software choice when working with other firms. It’s been important to talk it out at the beginning and determine proper file types. It’s just about assuring firms that our using Vectorworks isn’t going to change their workflow. Although there are many file types to collaborate with, the translation of information isn’t always seamless. We find that it sometimes requires testing with clients to find an agreeable file type to work with.
Phillip Tripp (Surface 678) — An anticipated growing pain is that new hires are typically unfamiliar with Vectorworks and require in-office training during orientation and continued assistance through office mentors for the first couple months.
We work around this with Project Sharing. All production staff on a project can see the efforts of their peers and can identify when new hires would benefit from reminders on techniques or office standards. We’re optimistic that universities will expand their software options within the landscape architecture program and offer access or training courses in Vectorworks, as this skill set would be highly valued.
Scott Lebsack (BYLA) — We’ve struggled with speed on some repetitive drafting activities. That said, the Vectorworks development team has been very responsive to user feedback when it comes to improving the software. We’ve pushed feature requests in Vectorworks’ forum that we hope to see implemented.
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Vectorworks is a major sponsor of Land8.
Sparked by the murders of Black Americans by police officers, rebellions in many cities have revealed systemic disparities in the living conditions of people based on race, class and gender. The built environment is going through a rapid re-examination of its role in enabling or inhibiting social equity and racial justice. How could this impact how landscape architects are taught and how they practice? How could we encode equity and justice into our work? In this interactive session, multidisciplinary panelists will offer insight into what equity and justice mean, especially when working in economically, socio-culturally, and ecologically unjust places. Participants will be invited to participate in visioning new strategies for equipping landscape
Panelists
Fred Brown
Fred Brown is President and CEO of The Forbes Funds, a philanthropic organization focused on strengthening the management capacity and impact of community nonprofits in the Pittsburgh area. TFF is an Intermediary Foundation that serves 12 counties in SWPA, providing capacity-building support to nonprofit organizations in the human services and community development arenas. For 35 years, TFF has been an innovative leader addressing the needs of over 2,200 nonprofit organizations in the Pittsburgh region, specializing in fiscal management, strategic planning, back office support, mergers, acquisitions, and organizational sun setting.
Breeze Outlaw
Breeze Outlaw is a landscape designer at Sasaki in Watertown, Mass. whose work addresses the perceptual and physical connections of equitable and just access to public spaces. In zir work, zie explores frameworks of equity that emphasize place-keeping through black futurism, cultural expression, and natural systems. Breeze’s belief in design as a tool to empower people and reflect place has allowed zir to collaborate with community stakeholders, food producers, artists, organizers, and municipalities on projects that address challenges ranging from food access disparities, gentrification, and affirming spaces for black womxn. Breeze holds a Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Landscape Architecture from North Carolina State University, is a recipient of an ASLA Certificate of Honor, ASLA Student Honor Award, and is a Landscape Architecture Foundation Olmsted Scholar. Zie is also the co-founder of Blackscapes, an initiative aimed at exploring the intersection of the black experience in the built environment.
Vernice Miller-Travis
Vernice Miller-Travis is Executive Vice President of The Metropolitan Group. In addition to being a co-founder of WeACT and a pioneer in the Environmental Justice Movement, she is an expert in multicultural engagement and organizational development with significant expertise in clean air and water, regulatory systems and environmental and urban planning. Vernice consults for federal and state agencies, foundations and nonprofits. Prior to becoming a consultant, she established the environmental justice program for NRDC and initiated the environmental justice grantmaking portfolio for the Ford Foundation. Vernice has extensive experience working with communities that have undergone economic disinvestment and environmental degradation by facilitating community-based planning and implementing community revitalization and sustainable redevelopment initiatives and projects. She has the proven ability to bring unlikely partners and diverse stakeholders from all sectors together and to help find shared goals and solutions. She is trained in environmental conflict mediation, alternative dispute resolution, and how to navigate longstanding racial, cultural and economic conflicts.
Moderator
Kofi Boone, ASLA
Kofi Boone, ASLA is a Professor of Landscape Architecture at NC State University in the College of Design. Kofi is a Detroit native and a graduate of the University of Michigan (BSNR 1992, MLA 1995). His work is in the overlap between landscape architecture and environmental justice with specializations in democratic design, digital media, and interpreting cultural landscapes. His teaching and professional work have earned numerous awards including student and professional ASLA awards. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Conservation Network as well as the Landscape Architecture Foundation where he is Vice President of Education. He is a frequent speaker at national conferences and events. His published work is broadly disseminated in peer-reviewed and popular media and he is a frequent contributor to Landscape Architecture Magazine.
Learning Objectives
Following the session, the information will be compiled and we will work with the webinar participants and others to position and advocate for the recommendations in a range of organizations.
Sponsorship funds were donated to The Urban Studio.
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Lead Image: Kofi Boone, 2017
The Land8 Virtual Conference sponsored by Anova Furnishings was held on April 20 – 23, 2020. View recordings here:
Kona Gray (EDSA) – “Design Thinking – Utilizing Hand Graphics to Explore Ideas” | View >
Barbara Deutsch (Landscape Architecture Foundation) – “Landscape Performance to Demonstrate Impact” | View >
John Surico (Journalist and Urban Planning Researcher) – “Revitalizing Urban Parks After COVID-19” | View >
Gina Ford (Agency Landscape + Planning) – “Cutting Against the Bias – A Talk About the Strategic Advantage of Gender and Design” | View >
Kurt Culbertson (Design Workshop) – “Spatial Equity in the Time of Covid 19” | View >
Catherine Saunders (TBG Partners), Emma Tardella (NAK Design), Matt Alcide (Land8) – “Designing High-Performing (Digital) Landscapes: Social Media’s Place in Landscape Architecture” | View >
Brian Jencek (HOK) – “Healthy Cities: City-Making at the Intersection of Landscape Architecture and Public Health” | View >
Sara Zewde (Studio Zewde) – “Recent Work” | View >
Note: Continuing education credits are no longer available and only available to those who registered and completed the survey.
Description:
In the context of rapid urban development, a changing climate, and clarified social and political tensions, the narratives embedded in ecologies of memory offer creative departures for landscape architecture today. Sara Zewde will discuss the recent design work of Studio Zewde in this context.
This webinar is from the Land8 Virtual Conference sponsored by Anova Furnishings, recorded on April 23, 2020.
Description:
Great cities are defined by their great streets and open spaces. Yet the very existence of cities continues to be challenged by pandemics and climate change. Join this session to learn how landscape architecture is redefining cities through the lens of human health and resilience.
This webinar is from the Land8 Virtual Conference sponsored by Anova Furnishings, recorded on April 23, 2020.
Description:
Social media, when used correctly, is an invaluable tool to landscape architects. Social media plays a critical role in how landscape architects control the profession’s narrative in an architecture-focused media landscape.
Learning Outcomes:
Presenters:
This webinar is from the Land8 Virtual Conference sponsored by Anova Furnishings, recorded on April 22, 2020.
Description:
The imperative for designers to create spaces of great social interaction that bring together diverse, multi-generational populations is now being questioned in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet out of this crisis and chaos can come lasting opportunities to rethink the nature of work, to redefine resiliency to address challenges of pandemics and other health crisis, and to examine the equitable design of public spaces which are flexible and adaptable to a new understanding of public health. The pandemic has been particularly devastating for seniors, low income communities, and people of color. In the face of our current challenges, we need to determine the place of landscape architects in crafting a safer, more equitable society.
This webinar is from the Land8 Virtual Conference sponsored by Anova Furnishings, recorded on April 22, 2020.
Description:
The conversation about gender in design practice often leans in on the challenges – that women are not achieving at the same rate as their male colleagues and that their achievements are not seen or celebrated in the same way. Agency – as a practice model rooted in an optimistic philosophy of the same name – claims being women-led as a strategic advantage. This presentation will discuss gender as a creative driver in practice, a multi-faceted benefit in business, and a critical dimension of diversity in design.
This webinar is from the Land8 Virtual Conference sponsored by Anova Furnishings, recorded on April 21, 2020.