Landscape Architecture
and the Services Provided By
Landscape Architects
Landscape architectural projects may vary in size and complexity from a simple courtyard to a complex region and the landscape architect may provide a variety of services ranging from advice as a consultant, to preparation of working drawings, contract documents, and inspection of construction. The landscape architect renders services to a client directly or in collaboration with other professional disciplines. Remuneration for services is a fee received directly from a client. Fees may be based on per diem rates, lump sum amounts or as a percentage of the cost of construction.
Proposal
for Services
In order to determine the type and extent of services to be performed
and the basis for remuneration the landscape architect will, after consultation
with the client and familiarization with the site and requirements of
the work, prepare a proposal for services. This proposal will set forth
in writing the specific scope to be performed by his office, time of performance,
the basis of charges and the method of payment. This statement will also
describe all information to be furnished by and at the expense of others.
The proposal, approved in writing by the client, may constitute a working
agreement between the client and the landscape architect, or may form
the basis for the preparation of a formal contract.
Services
A master plan, in providing a strategy for the orderly phased growth of development may be specific and detailed in the concept and planning of the arrangement and relationships of the use areas and facilities. Alternatively, it may only schematically establish a framework, flexible to varying degrees to accommodate both known and future requirements. The master plan may include any or all of the services outlined in pre-design or advisory services. Usually the study would include site analysis, preparation of a program of requirements, development of concept(s) master plan(s) of the proposed long-range development, phasing plan and cost estimates. The results of the study may be documented in a written report.
The type and number of working drawings required for various projects will, of course, vary, but in general they will consist of most, if not all, of the following: site layout plan, grading and drainage plan, planting plan, construction details, as well as lighting location and irrigation plans.
The specifications will identify all types of materials to be used and will set forth explicit and concise methods of construction and/or installation. Specifications are organized to separate those portions of the work which may logically be executed by the different trades or separate contractors, as for example: Excavation and grading, concrete and masonry work, timber and wood work, pavements, and planting.
The tender will identify all drawings and documents pertaining to the work, establish the manner in which the tenders are to be submitted, the basis on which the work is to be contracted for, the contract or unit price, agreed terms, payments and all other information necessary to assure a complete and valid Contract.
