You’re starting a new project in landscape architecture. What software do you need to get it done right? (2024)

Having trained before the use of CAD it is the personal soft and hard landscaping knowledge and design strategies that are important. CAD software is now the normal method of communication

I start with Google Earth to view satellite imagery over time, then GIS platforms for site context. I would then do a site visit to verify (or challenge) my perceptions and upload georeferenced photos in Google My Maps. This map / photos can be shared with others. Getting into design, hand drawing is the best starting point. Once designs are being developed, I move over to an assortment of platforms such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and/or Vectorworks. These programs can spatially show design features accurately with universal linework / symbols. In rare instances, I use Illustrator for complex graphic transparency overlays. Exports are brought back into Google Earth as an image overlay to show the sites relationship to the greater world.

Le SIG pour faire court, et le BIM des urbanistes, aménagistes du territoire et autres spécialistes de l’environnement. Hyper essentiel pour l'analyse et la recherche de solutions au travers d'une multitude de données géospatiales.Pour l’architecte paysagiste j’ai du mal à voir l’intérêt d’utiliser les SIG. A part pour des études à grandes échelles, mais là c’est plutôt le géographe et l’urbaniste qui rentre en scène.

Translated

Recently I met with people from company called EverScan. They are working with Terrestrial and LIDAR scanning that allows you to collect, store, analyze, and display three-dimensional data and information about any type of construction site. There is no need to model it on your own based on ArcGIS CADs. EverScan uses state-of-the-art laser scanner technology with UAVs for high-precision volume measurements, digital surface models and orthophoto maps. At the end you have full-scale detailed model ready to be integrated into your concept!

Working as a Landscape Architect in the BIM realm can be challenging and overwhelming especially when the team is new to the 3D modelling world but it’s quite rewarding when you get the see the outcome. Although there are many softwares under the BIM umbrella, Revit has almost become synonymous to BIM. Since its inception BIM has come a long way to accommodate the needs of Landscape Architects especially with the introduction of various plugins. In my experience of having worked with various other softwares, BIM is the way forward and rightfully so, with the AI taking over the world, I see BIM as the most powerful and valuable asset across all the design realms.

Based on my experience, opting for a BIM Tool enhances coordination and ensures comprehensive insights across design and development facets.

Design visualization is most important for before execution, with visualization only can understand the designer imagination to realty’s vision for clients

I often use 3D rendering software as soon as the design of the plans by hand is finished in order to have a realistic rendering of the project

I am expecting that the workflow will go towards a combination of BIM and immersive visualisation platforms like Unreal Engine to mirror the classic saying that architecture is a combination of science and art. To achieve the best result its important to control the project in all its facets from as early as possible. BIM does provide a platform to ensure that the landscape design works in technical and practical aspect. But for a successful landscape 'working' is hardly enough - great design should be able to inspire and elevate the human experience. Thus to ensure that the project is on the right track from very early on we should think about how the landscape will 'feel' and be in full conscious control of this aspect.

Collaboration software is essential for facilitating communication and coordination among team members, clients, and consultants throughout the project lifecycle. Platforms like Autodesk BIM 360 or Trimble Connect provide centralized repositories for project documentation, enabling real-time collaboration, version control, and efficient workflow management.

While I agree with some of the other suggestions given when answering this question, one of the most important skills I ever learned was how to quickly hand sketch ideas during conceptual meetings with clients or collaborators (without embarrassing myself). I learned cad and hand drawing simultaneously as cad was just being introduced. I may be old fashioned, but being able to communicate an idea visually and on the fly is a critical skill many students just aren’t taught anymore. For me, technology usually comes in after I get my hands dirty drawing just a bit.

When I dive into a fresh landscape project, beyond the usual CAD tools, I use Notion for organized notes & project documentation and Procreate for quick design sketches. For detailed plans I prefer AutoCAD & ArchiCAD and Blender3D for custom 3D renders.