Trends are often seen as moments of excitement, but according to the Oxford Dictionary, a trend is more accurately defined as the general direction in which something is developing or changing. Let's explore seven key trends shaping landscape design in the 21st century.
3D Modeling
Although 3D modeling software has been around since the 1980s, it truly gained momentum in the late 20th century. Today, computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D modeling tools are standard in most design studios, with some requiring more advanced architectural software. When combined with 3D printing, these technologies have transformed how landscapes are visualized and constructed, bringing designs to life in ways never before possible.
Urban Design
The concept of urban design was pioneered by Frederick Law Olmsted, who focused on creating green spaces within cities. While his early efforts sparked debate, the movement has since evolved to include street-level improvements, pocket parks, and block-level green areas. These spaces are not just for aesthetics—they play a crucial role in improving public health, encouraging physical activity, and enhancing the quality of urban life.
Research from the University of Chicago highlights that low-income communities often lack accessible outdoor spaces, leading to higher rates of obesity and asthma. Landscape architects are working closely with city planners to create inclusive, healthy environments that benefit both residents and the broader community.
Bus Stop Design
Bus stops are a common feature in every city, but many are now being reimagined with the help of landscape architects. The goal is to enhance the rider experience while making bus stops more functional and aesthetically pleasing. One notable example is the sculpture bus stop along Florida International Drive, where art and utility come together.
Water Geiger, for instance, designed a white, curved fiber-reinforced polymer board that adds artistic value while offering comfort to passengers. Other innovative designs include solar-powered canopies with green roofs, and unique structures like the "BUS" sign at the Madrid Artists Union station in Baltimore, which stands 14 feet tall and 7 feet wide.
Bike Pathways
Cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam have set the standard for dedicated bike infrastructure, separating cycling lanes from cars and pedestrians. This trend is spreading globally, with more cities recognizing the benefits of promoting cycling as a sustainable and healthy mode of transport.
In the Netherlands, over 99% of people commute by bike, and in China, 500 million people do the same. Many architecture firms are now focusing on designing bike-friendly cities, aiming to reshape urban environments and inspire future generations of designers to follow suit.
Historical Preservation
Historical preservation involves identifying, documenting, and protecting cultural and historical landscapes, including private gardens, national parks, and public spaces. These areas are often threatened by development or neglect, making preservation efforts essential.
The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) has a special practice group dedicated to historical preservation. Their mission is to promote knowledge, education, and technology in landscape design, using it as a tool for public good. Through annual publications and collaborative projects, they continue to safeguard significant landscapes across the U.S.
Roof and Vertical Gardens
While sky gardens date back to ancient times, such as the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, modern landscape architects are rediscovering their potential for sustainability and urban design. These green spaces help reduce energy use, manage water efficiently, and provide much-needed outdoor areas in densely populated cities.
Patrick Blanc is one of the most renowned vertical garden designers, with installations found worldwide. His work demonstrates how greenery can be integrated into urban architecture, transforming concrete jungles into living, breathing ecosystems.
Sustainability
Sustainability is one of the most widely discussed terms in the 21st century. According to the Oxford Dictionary, it refers to maintaining ecological balance by avoiding the depletion of natural resources. It has become a core principle in many landscape design projects.
Landscape architects often see themselves as stewards of the environment, striving to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible. From using native plants to reducing water consumption, sustainability is shaping the future of the field in meaningful ways.
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