702B: Planning with a Landscape-First Approach

September 22, 2022

11:45AM - 12:15PM

The study of existing and proposed landscapes traditionally follows a human-centric “vision” for the land; an anthropogenic approach that reduces land as an object for human use. However, our industry’s influence on land — a shared asset among diverse peoples and species — should not be understated. We must rethink how we prioritize biodiversity, climate change, and the health of our ecosystems.

So, what happens when we put landscape first?

When landscape architects and urban planners are integrated into the design process from the very beginning with the goal of ensuring a thriving relationship between the built and natural environments, a fundamental and positive shift in outcomes can occur. This presentation explores four case studies that demonstrate how SvN integrates themes of stewardship, biodiversity, and community to drive a landscape-first approach throughout the planning process:

1. Trent Lands and Nature Areas Plan: a framework for the evolution of the Symons Campus positions Trent University as a steward of the land, developing and preserving it in ways that support resilience and strengthen relationships with First Nations.
2. The Salinas Bahamas: a new model of “systems-based regenerative design” aims to integrate and improve its surroundings by responsibly developing destinations based on site ecology, dedicating land to conservation, restoration, research, and site remediation, empowering ecosystems to flourish alongside humankind in a Bahamian wilderness oasis.
3. 33 Hillcrest: a proposed rezoning for a mixed-use development in Mississauga demonstrates how a transit-oriented site can be both intensified and transformed into a densely planted community forest that promotes biodiversity and green infrastructure, strengthening green connections to the Cooksville Creek ravine system and adjacent parks.
4. Sutton Youth Housing: a site plan application for transitional housing for youth integrates landscape to build dignity, pride, and a sense of place, effectively humanizing temporary supportive housing.

Speakers