3-August-15 The Latest News in Landscape Architecture 2015 is sponsored by ZinCo – Life on Green Roofs – Ecological and Economical Green Roofs, worldwide. In this week’s Latest News in Landscape Architecture we share some of the top questions for a job interview, reveal that plants send signals when stressed, and highlight how the profession is gaining traction. Over the past month, the level of coverage about landscape architecture from sources ranging from The Wall Street Journal to The Washington Post and many news outlets in between demonstrates that the public is finally starting to understand our value. In The News This Week: • The Top 5 Questions to Prepare for in an Architecture Job Interview • Designing Outdoor Public Spaces is Vital to the Future of our Cities (Video) • Stressed Out Plants Send Animal-Like Signals (Trending) • Munich’s Got Its Eye on a Huge Highway System for Cyclists • The Velenje Promenada (Video) • Understanding the Landscape (Video) (Click the headline for the full story)
Latest News in Landscape Architecture 2015
Many recent graduates learn very soon that there’s much more than being a great designer when it comes to landing your dream job. While a solid resume and attractive portfolio are critical elements to obtaining offers—the most important step is succeeding at the job interview. To start off on the right foot it’s imperative to research the interviewer and the firm so you’ll be prepared for all questions from “tell me about yourself” to “where do you see yourself in 5 years”. Ultimately, employers are looking for long-term commitment especially as the market continues to strengthen. Related Article: 4 Steps to Help You Get a Job as a Landscape Architect
People have a strong connection to nature—so much so that many of their most memorable experiences happen in the great outdoors. However, for some odd reason outdoor spaces are not given the same value and financial support as buildings and interiors. Why hasn’t the business case been made for designed outdoor spaces especially when they are usually less expensive and can pay higher returns on investment. From increased community life to enhanced health and wellness—it’s only fitting that the mantra makes a logical shift. Related Article: How Can Redesigning a Public Space Change People’s Behavior?
WATCH: Amanda Burden: How public spaces make cities work
According to research from the University of Adelaide, plants use signals normally associated with animals when they encounter stress. “We’ve known for a long-time that the animal neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is produced by plants under stress, for example when they encounter drought, salinity, viruses, acidic soils or extreme temperatures,” says senior author Associate Professor Matthew Gilliham. Now researchers are optimistic that they have discovered new possibilities for adjusting how plants respond to stress. Related Article: Find the Perfect Plans for Your Projects
- The Velenje Promenada: ShapedScape
Situated in the center of the young town of Velenje (Slovenia), the promenade has become a unique gathering space. Designed by ENOTA, the design team was tasked with creating more greenery and programmed space. Subsequently, the clean concrete elements allow for seating, while framing the area for activities to ensue. By transforming an existing promenade and traversing the River Paka—the extensive pedestrian zone weaves its way through the urban fabric and brings relevance to the once sleepy promenade.
WATCH: Slavnostna otvoritev prenovljene promenade v Velenju (HD)
The land of the Autobahn hopes to welcome another massive highway system for cyclists—barring any opposition. To curb automobile congestion and make cycling long distances more efficient and pleasant, Munich wants to extend a network of bike facilities through the city and into the suburbs. The plan calls for 14 two-way bike lanes (each 13 feet wide and free of cars) over a 400 square mile area. The kicker. There are no crossroads and no traffic lights! “Perhaps this has to change a little. Perhaps they have to give a little space to other means of transport,” said Birgit Kastrop, an urban planner working on the proposal. Related Article: Can Copenhagen Become the Best Cycling City in the World?
- Understanding the Landscape: Australian Financial Review
There has always been a misunderstanding of what landscape architects actually do. While we’re often associated with gardening, the scale of our work is much larger. Shahana McKenzie, chief executive of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects, (AILA) sees the profession of landscape architecture as being “everything between, around, below, and even above buildings. “People have become more conscious of the importance of having quality open spaces.” Additionally, now landscape architects are leading large-scale projects that were once led by architects.
WATCH: Landscape Architecture – Beyond Green
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Latest News in Landscape Architecture 2015
News report by Brett Lezon
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