Both landscape design and landscape architecture are required to create an outdoor area that complements the building and its environs. However, while there are definite similarities between the two, there are also significant differences.
A landscape architect Idaho and a residential landscape design professional have similar but different roles and responsibilities in making your landscape dream a reality.
To understand this, let us look at how their roles and responsibilities vary.
The Difference in Responsibilities Between Landscape Architects and Designers
The scope of work, each professional, is accountable for is one of the key distinctions between them.
Landscape designers typically work on small-scale transactional projects. Such projects are usually residential ones that don’t have large-scale drainage and grading requirements.
The primary responsibility of a residential landscape design Salt Lake City professional is to create beautiful and visually pleasing outdoor spaces. As such, they can legally practice without a degree or certificate.
Some of their responsibilities include:
- Plant recommendation based on your preferences
- Accompanying you to nearby nurseries while making recommendations for appropriate plants and vegetation
- Accounting for things like lawn care and garden maintenance
On the other hand, one of the primary responsibilities of a landscape architect in Idaho is to plan and design large-scale complex outdoor spaces.
These professionals have specialized training to design public parks, plazas, gardens, resorts, malls, campuses, and many more. They can design and create secure public spaces that consider the nature of the nearby structures.
Additionally, they work with municipalities for industrial and commercial projects. So, landscape architects require a license to work, considering the level of expertise required to take on these projects.
Some of their responsibilities include the following:
- Site grading and drainage
- Identifying and resolving environmental issues
- Professional practice
- Complying with local regulations and help in obtaining the proper building permits
- Landscape restoration and conservation
Final Thoughts
Knowing the difference between a landscape designer and a landscape architect will help you determine whether you need the services of a landscape designer or a landscape architect.