LandSCAPES: A Typology of Approaches to Landscape Architecture

Abstract

This paper presents a typology or classification of six landscape architecture approaches or theories summarized by the acronym landSCAPES:

1. S design as Synthesis

2. C Cultivated expression

3. A landscape Analysis

4. P Plural design

5. E Ecological design

6. S Spiritual landscapes

These categories have distinctive approaches to landscape architecture on eight dimensions: (1) its goals, (2) the process used in design or analysis; (3) main clients or audiences; (4) the scale of concern; (5) intellectual or knowledge base; (6) ethical approach; (7) relation to the natural world; and (8) the approach’s analysis of power relations or the larger role of landscape architecture in society. By classifying approaches and thinking about such classifications, landscape architects can reflect upon and debate dimensions of the profession that are too often implicit and invisible.