Jeffrey Trojanowski,

I haven’t used them yet, because I have not done parking lots in a while, but there is this new infrastructure device called Silva Cell (I believe I saw an ad on Land8Lounge).  It is a structural void space that goes below the asphalt and base so that the tree has more space to grow than the 4×4 planter island that scatters the parking…[Read more]

I believe the “NEED” for a MLA is coming from firms trying to look more prestigious. 
A lot of the posted job openings recently are stating that they are only looking for an MLA.  That is forcing LA’s with BLA, BSLA’s to go back to school to get their MLA if they want a prestigious job because a firm looking only for an MLA with 4 years e…[Read more]

I just saw something like this on the TV.  Some online college was offering an AA or BFA in LandArch.  The funny thing is if you look at any of the job postings, and anyone I have talked to, Firms are looking for MLA, BLA, or BSLA.  That’s it.  And the majority of them are requesting an accredited college.  Most new job postings I have seen also…[Read more]

It’s not that LA’s don’t want to build to LEED standards, they can’t.
There are only about 6 points available for LA’s when it comes to LEED certification of a project.  99% of the points have to do with, bathroom lighting, low VOC paint and glue for the linolium and carpet, natural light in rooms, etc.

There will always be room for new…[Read more]

I believe “Green” Landscape Architecture is a moot point.  What is more green than Landscape Architecture.  The video is a prime example.  Brooklyn Bridge Park took an industrial shipping yard (flat and full of concrete and steel buildings) and made it a lush landscape where people gather.  MVV has beautified the area, created a gathering spa…[Read more]

Good Question. I have the same question.

If you have 4-5 years experience, do you really need to be an intern.  Most internships are no pay.
 

Good points Andrew.  It seems like there are more humble designers than boastful designers.  I design, not to be recognized per say, but to enhance the quality of the space.
 
I think that Architects go for what the building looks like because it stands out on a plane.  Landscape Architects, probably because their designs are on a flat plane, see…[Read more]

I live in a mountain area and am finishing up my landscape.  I have used Ribes roezlii (sierra gooseberry) it is up to 9200 ft. but there is also the golden currant (9800 ft) and the alpine currant.

You’re right Steve.  I read your post wrong.  It should be obvious that if there is a Practice Act a stamp is required.  Now all States should have a Practice Act.  It protects the Landscape Architects.  Glad to see that there are only 5 states left until all 50 have Practice Acts.  (maybe 4, Illinois is in the process of requiring the Practice Act).

Steve,  not All states have a practice act.  Washington just passed a law for a Practice Act, but Illinois, Maine, Mass. and Wisconsin are still only under a Title Act, so any landscape designer can practice.  And then there is Vermont, that has neither.

The State of California has a Practice Act and a Title Act.  Definitely need the stamp.

My first and only job came about by word of mouth.  You are right the best are not advertised.  I was still in school, and a classmate had a job already at a small firm, and found out that another small firm had an opening so I applied, and called a couple times a week, because they were busy and just didn’t have time to look through resumes.  I…[Read more]

Drought tolerant species can have some very ornamental properties, even some natives, depending on where you are.  The other thing is, how many ornamental plants are hardy enough not to get trampled.  The majority of end cap islands that are between the parking and store are void of shrubs and groundcover because of people too lazy to walk a…[Read more]

Andrew usually picks, you will get an email here in an hour or so regarding what the topic is and to remind you to log on to chat.

usually there is a Friday Chat at 9 AM PST.