This is something we often discuss in my classes. My humble and most general suggestion is to learn more about current architects and architecture so you can place your values and beliefs within that context when you have discussions with architects. ( I know that architects would do themselves a great service if they learned more about landscape architects but that is for another discussion and website)
Most of us know that architects are control freaks and have very big egos ( I know this because I am one, but I’m working on fixing that) so you cannot use agression with people like that. It does take a good bit of diplomatic intelligence to reassert your importance to the design team. So work on your ability to avoid direct confrontation and to force yourself to ask lots of “why” questions followed by “because I want to learn more about YOUR* project”. I think you understand how this approach works with big egos. Slowly slip the word OUR instead of YOUR as the conversation progresses. OK I know that possibly this sounds funny but I know that buried in it there is some wisdom that I hope someone finds.
I also believe that landscape architects should work on more clearly describing what they can do while also expanding and redefining their services so that clients see their value and importance also. In my class I really encourage students to create process records that record and demonstrate the depth of inquiry and exploration to your clients ( architects included). I find that well organized process records help when debating fees or late payments. Lastly I think that landscape architects need to speed up and learn about BIM because if they don’t they are going to be left out in the cold since pretty soon there will only be ONE, virtual model that is. MOre about that later…
