Architecture Vs. Landscape Architecture - Which Should You Pursue?

In this video, we’re comparing architecture and landscape architecture to see which career path is the best for you. We’ll cover the basic principles and actions of both fields and make some broader assumptions to help make it an easy decision moving forward.
Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and other physical structures. And from a broader lens, architecture is the design of the total built environments from the macro level of town planning, and urban design, to the micro-level of construction details, and sometimes even furniture.
Landscape Architecture is the art and science of nurturing the built and natural environments. So landscape architecture involves planning, designing, and management of parks, campuses, streetscapes, trails, plazas, residencies, and other projects that strengthen the community.
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[@mrgroot4825]

So like many people who have commented I am also struggling to figure out what to study. I thought landscape architecture was the best place for me. However, I spent 1 year doing architecture at a community college and have grown very fond of it. One reason being that in architecture site design was done on every project aka landscape architecture, with the exception of plant selection. we designed planters, retaining walls, decks, hardscape, sunken patios, pools and so on. This made me think so what is even left for a landscape architect to design. Looking around my city I see buildings being erected with very little landscape arch. I feel like there is more work and design based projects available for architects. I feel like more often than not, land architects are only involved in the design process after the whole site has been designed by the architect. Like they are only asked to choose plants and if that is the case I find that to be pretty disrespectful to be honest. So my question would be, is anything that I have said true?. Most of these concerns are speculation but also form listening to architecture professors and students. Any information from anyone would be greatly appreciated. Thank you and love your content.

[@DesignItGreen]

In my experience this is very far from reality! It is true that often times landscape is behind and has to work with what is left over. But at least where I am landscape architects are being depended on more and more for not only managing the landscape and the flow of the site but also solving lots of problems for architects to achieve leed goals and other new world environmental requirements for sites.

[@willthepenguin8683]

Super helpful video, genuinely helped me understand the difference between the two fields!

[@DesignItGreen]

Glad to hear! Hope you make the right choice for you!

[@alejandragaytan3415]

Very interesting! Thank you for the contrast of these two fields.

[@DesignItGreen]

Your welcome! Glad to share my perspective on the differences between the fields!

[@anamelenoi6650]

It depends. In Brazil both courses are part of the same 5 years bachelor. I had enough time to recognize what was making me happier, and was not exactly the project but the plants and the soil itself.

[@DesignItGreen]

Oh that's really interesting! I always thought that they should combine the two majors more and let you choose your own path as you develop in college! I know that some master's programs let you do something similar. But I agree, finding your passion within a design field is really important, and what you can see yourself doing more of down the road is a huge help! thanks for sharing!

[@anamelenoi6650]

I think this works somehow, and so much that half my class dont work with ANY type of architecture at all. Some are musicians, others Ux designer, others Cinema directors, game developers and etc. All them discovered their passions in the Arq Bachelor.

[@DesignItGreen]

oh wow that's really cool! There is a lot of shared values and interests in art/design driven fields so I guess I am not surprised, and good that you mentioned people moving on to other fields cause that's really important to know moving forward that you can switch and transition really easily.

[@KingMalaxis]

Based on the information, I'm definitely more interested in going into landscape architecture. Thank you for the video!

[@DesignItGreen]

Thank you! And great choice! You will like Land Arch more!

[@randomstuffprod.]

This is incredibly useful, thank you so much!

[@DesignItGreen]

Of course! glad to provide some insight!

[@brandonrosetti8291]

Great video! I am currently studying Landscape Architecture and this reasured me that I made the right choice!

[@DesignItGreen]

Nice! Im glad to hear! hope the studies are going well

[@DesignItGreen]

Which Field Do You Think Is Better! Let Me Know In The Comments Below!

[@SamMcBride-ju1jo]

I am going to pursue landscape architecture

[@DesignItGreen]

Love to hear that!

[@simonezoellner8557]

Awesome video! I've recently graduated with a BAS (Bachelor of architectural studies) and have been working in the field (doing mostly draughting and structural drawings as a good basis for architecture) but am now seriously considering doing my masters in landscape architecture! I'm also interested in pursuing a masters in urban design but it's hard to define where the two stop and start. Do you have any advice / possibly a video explaining their relationship and which would be more prosperous as a career?

[@DesignItGreen]

Congrats on your accomplishment! This is a really great and hard question to answer! I think the main difference between the two is going to be scale. Urban Designers typically are more involved in the bigger picture like master plans, visionary work, etc. Whereas a landscape architecture is typically more involved with the smaller scale and more responsible for creating the literal plans. So I think it's more of deciding what scale you want to work at. Would you rather be doing the behind the scenes planning, visionary and big picture work, or be involved in the smaller details and carrying out projects of all scales. I would also say that these two fields seem to be becoming more and more intertwined. Depending on the LA firm you work for, you may be involved with both aspects. I had always thought myself that if I went back to school for a masters degree it would be in Urban Design rather than LA as my interests lie more heavily in the public realm rather than private sector. So maybe this deserves a video in it's own right!

[@rjahood2473]

Hey Simone, as a Landscape Architect based in the UK we do a lot of urban design and masterplanning work on the city scale too. I would say the major difference is that if you specialise in UD then you will primarily undertake work in cities and gain an in depth knowledge of designing landscapes/spaces with all the intricate constraints that come with designing in this environment such as the amount of services (electric, pipe works etc) , sewages. highly trafficked public areas, balancing public and private areas working closely with civil engineers local plans etc. I like how varied my work is because i can be working on a historic parkland estate one week and an urban regeneration project the next. I wouldn't want to limit myself to just working on cities personally. I think studying LA would give you the opportunity to be an urban designer if that's the avenue you would like.

[@shaybabashoff7513]

Thanks so much for this video! I've been researching the architecture field for the past year (getting ready to transfer to an undergrad program) and am now drifting more towards LA. The biggest factor for me would be licensure, as I'm not sure I'd want to go through that process. Would my job opportunities be limited drastically if I didn't have a license for landscape architecture?

[@DesignItGreen]

Hi Shay, the good news is you definetly do not need to go for your license, and most people don't... Licenseship doesn't really get you a pay raise, and if you are working in a firm that you do not own, than chances are your principal is licensed and that will be what is used the entire time you are there. The only time you really need one is if you are starting your own business and are working on some commercial projects.

[@JR-mr5dm]

Hello, great video thank you for the comparison! With that said, you mentioned and architect can transition to be a landscape architect fairly easy, does that also apply to a landscape architect wanting to transition to an architect?

[@DesignItGreen]

I believe so! Either way you will need to go through school again but you have such an advantage by knowing the design process

[@1xm_mx1]

Landscape architecture and architecture are complementary design fields, and one would not work too well without the other being present. Beautiful and interesting buildings with ugly or boring landscapes would be unattractive, and the same applies to beautiful and interesting landscapes with ugly or boring buildings.

[@DesignItGreen]

Totally agree! Both fields must work together and be equally balanced to achieve the highest amount of success!

[@merve3078]

you are the best

[@DesignItGreen]

Thank you!!

[@jakobmorgan1926]

Hello! I just watched this video and it really helped me solidify my choice between studying architecture or landscape architecture. I'm currently a second year doing my undergraduate at UC Berkeley studying Urban Studies atm but I'm thinking about picking up Landscape Architecture to major in as well. One questions I have going forward is a masters in landscape architecture needed in order to get into the career itself? Many people have said to me that when choosing any of the aforementioned design majors, a graduate degree is necessary in order to stay competitive and get into an entry level job early. Do you have any comment about this sentiment? Thank you!

[@DesignItGreen]

Hi Jakob, You certainly can get a foot in the door at any firm with a bachelors in LA or UD, it will of course help your case if you have a masters in LA but it is certainly not required. In my experience, having a masters in a field that is different but related to your major is more beneficial to being a more well rounded individual out of college. i.e Bachelors of Urban Design + Masters of Landscape Architecture or Bach. of Landscape Architecture + Masters of Sustainability

[@Rdee103]

i like intertwining the two of nature and buildings, what would be right for me?

[@nathanclark302]

Thank you for the video! I am honestly interested in taking part in both career choices, both ideas and types of materials and overall statements entrigue me into becoming both. How possible is it?

[@DesignItGreen]

It’s certaintly possible to do! But will definitely take some time to get a degree in both fields, I’m not sure they would let you double major with how intense each program is… so I would get an undergrad in one field and a masters in another!

[@nathanclark302]

@@DesignItGreen That makes the most sense, Thanks!

[@nathanclark302]

@@DesignItGreen I watched some of your videos last night, how much do you love your career in Landscape Architecture?

[@DesignItGreen]

Depends on the day you ask! I think it's a great career and has some amazing opportunities, I think it's pitfalls are the culture and work environment expectations! but I love the creative expression and outlets that it has in addition to the impact it can make on people and the environment!

[@kozyoutdoorliving]

I build modern patio covers and retractable pergolas which application I should use to get measurements to share with manufacturers and get renders for my customers for visualization?

[@DesignItGreen]

Sketch Up is probably you're best bet for measurements and visuals!

[@kozyoutdoorliving]

@@DesignItGreen thank you for answer, I think sketch up go doesn't have cad drawing option but pro has. Am I right ?

[@amritanag5760]

Great video Carter! I have a question. Which major did you choose in college? I am struggling with which program I should choose.

[@DesignItGreen]

I went to school for Landscape Architecture, so my major was Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning

[@vseditqorials8243]

Trynna pick between doing an arch degree at UofT or Landscape arch. I think I’m generally more interested in building arch but I’m growing interested in landscape. Also the landscape degree offers at the school I got accepted is enough to enter the workforce and wouldn’t need a master as opposed to the arch degree which requires a masters before working. On top of that many of the arch mastwrs programs at my country don’t require an arch undergrad, so I can still go into building arch with a landscape arch degree + have the security of finding a job in the meantime. However I think I’m more passionate about arch and I don’t wanna regret this decision so what do y’all think?

[@chimchimeroo5101]

I'm currently on the fence with these two. I just finished my degree in architecture and now I found out about landscape architecture. Landscape sounds very interesting to me and I really want to study this for my masters (environment awareness is something I think I have more strength in!) Will taking LA limit my possibilities in a career field? Is it a huge knowledge change if I jump from archi to landscape archi? My tutor told me to continue with Architecture but honestly I don't have the passion for design studios in archi 🥲 (sorry for my english it's not my first language)

[@DesignItGreen]

Hi, I think LA and ARCH are very similar in the methods and programs but are vastly different in practice, so while it is easy to transfer between the fields you will need to go back to school for LA if you wanted to work in LA and had a degree in architecture. And would work the same if you wanted to work for an Architect and had an LA degree. So in my opinion go with your gut and what you think makes you happy, burnout and intense hours are common in both fields so being excited about your work will help you greatly!

[@nourassadi5046]

Hi , I want to ask , I’ve learned three years and got a diploma in architecture and interior designed , unfortunatly I can’t proceed and get a bacheloret degree unless I repeat the whole five years in the field of architecture , so I was wondering if its worth to go through all these years again to get the degree or if you would advise me to learn landscape architecture ??

[@DesignItGreen]

I think it's totally up to you on if you want to go through that experience again. If you really think you will like the field then absolutely!

[@FreeDivastator]

I'm an architect with a 10 years of experience.. and I'd love to peruse landscaping as well, do you think it can be achieved by courses only? or should I go back to school?

[@DesignItGreen]

Most likely will have to go back to school if you want to work at a good practice, but you can certainly apply yourself from what you know in architecture!

[@ashleygorobe2208]

So sorry I saw this video late hopefully you can reply to the question, Well I was wondering, is landscape architecture marketable, like is it easy to get a job in that field, and where(country) is it better to get it, And how are the salaries, from newbies going forward Thank you

[@DesignItGreen]

Hi, I can only speak from my experience but I think there are lots of opportunities for employment as a landscape architect. Salaries will largely depend on where you live and what type of work you are doing but newbies can expect probably between 40-50k a year!

[@iampbsocks4812]

What do you do as an entry level landscape architect and how long were you in entry level for?

[@DesignItGreen]

I actually made a video that covers in length what you can expect to do as an entry level landscape architect, but in short, you spend a lot of time revising plans, sections and details using the different softwares like CAD, Sketchup, Vectorworks, and the Adobe Softwares. And depending on the size of the firm you may have more of a direct role in the projects development, and evolution over the course of the different phases of design. You will spend most of your time working on a computer, but will have some time to go on site and learn about the construction phases as well. Typically you are entry level for the first 2-3 years and work as a junior designer or designer, as you gain experience and work through offices you can become a higher level designer or even reach associate position within 5-6 years! Experience is highly valued so as soon as you are a year in you can expect a change in compensation from the entry level salary. Hope that helps!

[@iampbsocks4812]

@@DesignItGreen yes, this helps! Thank you you so much for the reply!

[@gerardofaustin8156]

So I have been doing architecture for quite some time now, but I find myself more interested in landscape architecture of late. However, I do want to do my masters in architecture. How will this transition from architecture to landscape architecture affect my timeline?

[@DesignItGreen]

If you want to still get your masters in architecture you will have to finish that program and then apply for a master or bachelors in landscape architecture, so I would say it will add at least 2 years to your timeline, and maybe more depending on your situation.

[@gerardofaustin8156]

@@DesignItGreen okay thank you

[@tjeerdprins869]

I thought about doing architecture, because the scale is more direct and personal to me. I’ve since learned that landscape architecture is usually less stressfull, less competitive, and better paying. Is that true? I’m seriously doubting my choice

[@DesignItGreen]

I think it depends more on what you like to work with... scale in landscape architecture can range pretty dramatically depending on the scope you go into. On paper it will be less competitive but is still a very competitive field to enter and is certainly very stressful at time. As for pay, not sure, they both aren't great compared to the tech industry or engineering industry. So for you I would think more about what type of work your interested in as happiness, enjoyment and passion will help guide you!

[@rjahood2473]

Hey Tjeerd, it will depend where you are working, what you're working on, your office culture and your personality. I certainly find my job stressful at times but that's when you know you are doing something which is stretching you to your maximum capabilities. For me completing my education was less stressful than I've seen architecture students go through and there is way more conversation about wellbeing. As for pay, I am under the impression that architects get paid far more - particularly in the UK. To be perfectly honest with you as an ''assistant'' fresh our of university I currently earn £22,500 ($27,330 USD) and this would only really go up to (on average) £45,000 or $54,600 USD. I hope that helps. I do believe we are better paid in other parts of the world!

[@DesignItGreen]

This is a great response! Design roles really do vary a lot and depend on the office more than anything! Thank you!

[@dylanflaherty5760]

I like geography but I’m so bad at drawing do you any ideas what I should do?

[@DesignItGreen]

drawing is a skill that will improve with practice and time! so don't worry about if you are good at drawing or not. If you want to study a design field then go for it!

[@rjahood2473]

Hey Dylan, I'm a Landscape Architect with an undergrad in History & Heritage. I couldn't/cant really draw to any special level either so please don't let it hold you back. Your course will teach you drawing skills both analogue and digital. The key is just to do it and keep practicing. As a LA the only things we tend to draw free hand are concept sketches/diagrams but lots of that is now done using Procreate. Take a short course in architectural drawing online - or grab a sketchbook and just go for it. Don't let where you are now hold you back from where you could be.

[@fleursramebangbonesangma356]

I have done my bachelor's in Horticulture , so is it possible that I can take up landscape architecture for my master's or only the one from architecture background can take up this course?

[@DesignItGreen]

You certainly can get a masters in LA with that background, often times larger programs will have a masters programs for those with no experience and a program for those who have a bachelors in LA or have work experience!

[@fleursramebangbonesangma356]

@@DesignItGreen thank you so much for answering my queries

[@DesignItGreen]

No problem!

[@sm_494]

Do landscape architects get license? If so, do they get it after pursuing bachelor's degree? Please answer this. Thank you.

[@DesignItGreen]

Hi, so landscape architects certainly can get a license after completing 2 essential requirements. 1st is to have a degree (bachelors or masters) in an accredited landscape architecture program and 2. depending on the region/state/country you are in there is a certain amount of hours/years required before you can go for your license. However getting a license is not required and a lot of people do not get their license. It's expensive, time consuming and doesn't necessarily give you a leg up. But if you want to start your own firm or business it's a good idea to get licensed for appearance and code requirements.

[@rjahood2473]

In the UK you typically complete an undergrad, a postgrad and then undergo a Chartership with the Landscape Institute and become a CMLI (Chartered member of the Landscape Institute) and this typically takes about 2-5 years and is done whilst you are working and you are mentored by someone you work with. Like Design it Green said, you don't have to complete a chartership to practice but you cant use CMLI, and you'll likely remain a junior / assistant etc. Its good form to get accredited as it shows a thorough understanding of your industry.

[@matthewspinazze4118]

Do you think it’s easy to transition into architecture after getting a bachelors in landscape architecture ?

[@DesignItGreen]

Hm that's a good question, I haven't come across anyone who has made the switch from Land Arch to Arch but I think for someone who's already gone through a design major in school I don't think it will be challenging on yourself to make the switch... the question I guess is how easy job wise it is to transfer. I'm not sure if you could get a job in architecture without going back and getting another degree, I think there is probably a lot of differences in building technology knowledge that you wouldn't have learned from land arch. But I would imagine that if you worked for a larger firm that had multiple disciplines you could maybe get eased into an arch role.. I also wonder if you did go back to get a bachelors in architecture if you could accelerate the process as well. From what i've learned land arch tends to be more inviting towards arch majors when making the switch but less so the opposite. Hope that helps!

[@barrettozier1901]

is it just as easy to transition from landscape architecture to architecture?

[@DesignItGreen]

Not sure, I think architecture and landscape architecture are both hard to transfer into, but either way will require you to go back to school and get a degree

[@parisanoorbakhsh9676]

there is a question that i'm trying to answer for a long time: why do i love landscape architecture? i'm about to start the fourth yerar of archtecture bachelore (not sure about the grammer) and i'm planning to study master, but i must choose a major. the biggest problem is: i just love landscape architecture and i don't know why. i can't say at least 5 good reason to choose it and i just love it with my heart so i'm scared to choose wrong (wrong for me). do you have any idea about how may i solve this problem?

[@DesignItGreen]

I think you should start with what in the field are you most passionate about.. the most important thing to consider will be what you are willing to spend more time on, buildings or landscape. As you know, the design field requires a lot of time, so you want to make sure that in 2-5 years your not sick of architecture. In my professional experience, I've seen way more burnt out architects than LA's and a lot of architects have made the switch. Another consideration is that if you already have a Bachelor's of Architecture, why spend more money and time to get a masters in architecture? In my opinion, getting a masters in a related field or a field that could further boost your design skills, knowledge and understanding of the bigger picture is better i.e LA, Urban Design, Sustainability etc. So if you did get a masters in LA, you could pursue either field at the end of your studies, and come out with a more well rounded view of projects.

[@parisanoorbakhsh9676]

@@DesignItGreen i think it's a reasonable reason. thanks:)

[@parisanoorbakhsh9676]

@@DesignItGreen can you make a video about best univerisitys in the world (for landscape architecture, obviously) ? i'm not exactly talking about rankings (cause you can looke them up); i'm curious about the reputation of diffrent universitys (and countrys).

[@DesignItGreen]

hmm, that might be a tough one but I can look into it, I will ask around for some people who have studied outside of the states

[@parisanoorbakhsh9676]

@@DesignItGreen thanks. i'll wait for it:)

[@sakupremarathna4939]

Can we learn about landscape architecture in architecture?

[@DesignItGreen]

you can certainly learn about it! as long as your school has a landscape program you can always take them as electives. If not, you will learn about it over the years in the profession as an architect

[@ms.proton6155]

I'm doing civil engineering just came up with these topics,now I'm thinking about landscape architecture,what it might be cost me to become one delusion,and I think it best suit for a girl landscape architecture than being civil engineer!

[@DesignItGreen]

depends how far into civil engineering you are, the earlier you could make the switch the better