How to Analyze Landscape Plans

Landscape architects and artists create beautiful outdoor public and private spaces. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, almost all U.S. states require landscape architects to have licences, which requires a degree in landscape architecture, professional experience, and a high score on the Landscape Architect Registration Exam. To analyze a landscape plan, an architect or contractor must go through a detailed process to evaluate how the new plan works with the existing on-site layout. She must ensure that the plan preserves natural resources and does not disturb the area.

Budget plan
Calculator
Photograph(s) of the site

Instructions

- 1
  Determine how much money you will need to complete the landscape plan. Calculate how much funding you have available and how much you may need to loan or borrow to reach the landscaping goals.
- 2
  Investigate the natural elements. When looking at the landscape plans, determine the type of on-site soil, the land's slope, drainage, vegetation, wildlife and the climate of the area. Mark these notes in a computer word processing system or a spreadsheet.
- 3
  Evaluate the project's impact on the local ecosystem. Make a list of the site's existing features, such as buildings, roads, utilities and sidewalks.
- 4
  Decide which features in the existing landscape may present a problem for the landscape plan. Write a list of improvements or changes to be made to complete the landscaping project.
- 5
  Team up with architects, surveyors and engineers. Study the landscape plan's use of buildings and roads. With the team, determine the ideal arrangement for the roads and buildings. Speak with environmental scientists, forest rangers and professionals for ways to preserve or restore natural resources on-site.
- 6
  Add to the landscape plan. Make a more detailed plan, including the project's topography goals, vegetation ideas, proposed walkways, and other extra features, such as bike-paths or ponds.

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