- Training Interior Architecture
A landscape architect is a professional whose job is to design and create green spaces. They design gardens for local authorities and private individuals. But what exactly are their tasks? What skills does this professional need? What tools do they use? And what training is required to become a landscape architect? These are just some of the questions we'll be answering.
Tasks and roles of the landscape architect
Landscape architects design landscapes. They must develop and enhance the environment of green spaces. Whether it’s an urban district or an area to be reforested.
Their main task is to design landscaping schemes. To do this, they have to follow three key stages: studying the feasibility of the project, drawing up a plan and managing the site. They diagnose and study the feasibility of the project. He will then reveal the parameters (impact on the population, end users, socio-economic aspects). They will also have to take into account environmental constraints such as climate and topography, which they will have to incorporate into the project. These studies are carried out in a technical design office.
The second part of their work involves developing the project. They will imagine and design a space planning project based on the constraints and needs that have been studied beforehand. They draw up plans with measurements and sketches. They estimate the budget needed to complete the project, present it to the customer and make any necessary alterations.
The third part involves organising the site. The landscape architect submits the various applications for administrative authorisation. He will also issue invitations to tender and choose the companies to work with. He will have to visit the site regularly to ensure that the work is being carried out on schedule.
He will draw up (and receive) specifications and determine the various solutions suited to the project. He will choose the species to be used, the materials, the installation of the plants, etc. depending on the nature of the site to be landscaped, its climate and its purpose.
They will work with CAD software, sketches and drawings. They also create technical and administrative documents. These may include earthworks plans, irrigation network plans, legal clauses, tender regulations or contract documents. They may also be involved in advising on studies, research and teaching. When working on major projects, landscape architects may work in collaboration with engineers, architects or town planners.
They may work on restoring private gardens or developing vast public green spaces. They will also work on new outdoor spaces such as squares, neighbourhoods or avenues, shopping centres, community sites, reforestation of an area or, for example, the installation of a wind turbine. They can also work on roadside landscaping, urban design or private terraces and balconies.
For local authorities, they may be responsible for drawing up rules for landscaping public spaces . To do this, they use their own knowledge, but may also call on the services of plant and floral specialists (nurserymen, horticulturists). He will call on gardeners to carry out the work. They may or may not monitor the work. They deal with a wide range of customers: private clients, civil servants, sports clubs, private companies, property management companies, motorway companies, etc.
They may work in a variety of settings: in a design office, certain government departments, local authorities, large companies, training establishments, associations or NGOs. They may be employed or self-employed. Their remit covers a wide range of areas: territorial diagnosis, drawing up a landscape policy, putting in place and monitoring proposals for the conservation and protection of green spaces, not to mention analysing the data collected on the natural site they are to develop. Landscape architects are also known as landscape designers or landscape architects.
Skills and qualities needed to be a landscape architect
A landscape architect will have technical skills, but not only that. They must also know how to work in a team and be particularly rigorous. They must be highly adaptable and have a well-developed artistic sense. Creativity is also essential. Computer skills are also very useful. CAD (computer-aided design) is used every day. Knowledge of environmental protection is also essential. In terms of analytical skills, you’ll need very good design skills. Good communication skills will also be useful.
Tools and software used by landscape architects
We have noted that landscape architects can create sketches. He will therefore need the necessary equipment. They also work a lot with landscape design software (Lumion Pro, Jardiup3D, Nova or Sketchup pro). They may also use CAD programming software, GIS (Geographic Information System) programmes, rendering, BIM (Building Information Modeling), editing and collaboration software.
Which baccalaureate should I choose?
There is no specific baccalauréat to follow a course. It doesn’t matter whether you take a literary or scientific baccalaureate. It is important to note, however, that the diplomas required imply a good command of mathematics, computer skills and drawing abilities.
Before taking a diploma, however, it will be essential to have a good grounding in landscape design or ecology. Field experience is also useful.
Training and qualifications to become a landscape architect
The profession has long been unregulated. In 2016, the law on the reconquest of biodiversity defined the term landscape architect. Since then, only people with certain qualifications have been able to hold these positions. A decree was issued in 2017 setting out the qualifications and conditions that must be met. Nevertheless, access to the profession remains unrestricted, which means that even without a diploma, a person can practise. However, many employers require certain qualifications. In these cases, skills in architecture and engineering are essential.
At ESMA, students follow the Interior Architecture Professional Cycle, a 5-year course leading to the RNCP39589 – Interior Architect, Level 7 (Bac+5). Combining theory and practice, this course offers a versatile and highly professional approach to interior design. Students learn to play with volumes, circulation, materials and light, while developing their creative skills and their ability to design successful projects. Supervised by professionals, they hone their talent for space design and build up a solid portfolio through practical projects and work placements.
Other courses are also available. The two-year BTSA (Advanced Technician’s Certificate) in Landscape Development provides basic training in the design and management of green spaces. It can be supplemented by a vocational degree in landscaping, management, design or maintenance. Landscape schools also offer state diplomas in landscape design or specialised engineering qualifications, which can be obtained after 2 years’ higher education and a competitive examination, and which can be used to apply to the Ministry of the Environment for the title of landscape designer.
Lastly, a number of private training courses and European courses, such as the ESAJ Master’s degree in Landscape Gardening, enable students to develop their expertise further and move on to high-level careers in landscape design and development.
How much does a landscape architect earn?
The average salary for a landscape architect ranges from €1,830 to €2,100. It is possible to set up your own practice or become a company director. Your salary will depend on whether you are employed in the public sector or are self-employed. It will also depend on the services offered. Specialised services will earn a higher salary.
The salary will also depend on the employer. If you are self-employed, it will depend on the number of projects you carry out. You can also work for a large company, a community or the government. The salary will then vary according to the size of the company.
Average starting salary
When starting out, this professional earns 1800 euros per month.
Average experienced salary
The average salary is 32,640 euros a year (or 2,720 euros a month).
Career opportunities
Career prospects may lie in a specialist agency. These professionals will gain more experience and responsibilities.
Landscape architects can specialise to find a more specific job. They can choose from a range of specialities, including ecological garden design, urban design, park development, French garden design and green space design for businesses.
Landscape architects can work on a freelance basis, in a design office, for a local authority, a landscape architect’s office or a landscaping company.
Over time, these professionals may become experts in their field and open their own practice. They may also turn to the arts or research. They may also choose to become CAUE advisers or town planners.
Sectors and companies that recruit
If you’re a landscape architect, you can work for a wide range of companies, as well as local authorities and private individuals. Many vacancies are now available in foreign cities (New York, Norfolk and San Francisco).
As far as companies recruiting for this type of position are concerned, you can turn to consultancies or local authorities. The French government can also offer positions when it creates a specific event. The landscape sector is booming. It’s true that the greening of urban areas is growing in the face of climatic hazards.
Which school should you choose to become a landscape architect?
You can choose the school that will train you to become a landscape architect. You can train at INSA Strasbourg or ESA Paris. The ESMA design school also offers training (as mentioned above).
