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Biodiversity in Architecture: What Role Do Landscapers Play?

23 Aug 2023

The current way of urban life is completely separated from nature. We live and work in tall buildings made of concrete, steel, and glass, and the only living plants we see all day are the hypers-styled potted trees and flowers in office buildings.

If you want to spend a few hours surrounded by nature, you have to go to the local park or botanical garden. Or, if you have the time and means, you can get out of the city and roam through the nearest forest. That is if you’re lucky enough to live in a city that’s close to a wooded area.

This lifestyle is completely against our instincts as human beings, and it shows. According to recent studies, a walk in nature is an extremely refreshing and recharging activity with benefits for the brain and the body. Scientists also found that living away from nature takes a toll on our bodies and mental health.

Luckily, the trends are shifting, and we see more buildings in-tune with nature. It’s a way to bring Mother Nature back into the cities and help city dwellers reap all the benefits of modern architecture combined with biodiversity.

What is Biodiversity in Architecture?

Biodiversity in architecture refers to designing and constructing buildings that integrate and support diverse forms of life. This approach recognises the interconnectedness of ecosystems and seeks to minimize negative environmental impacts while maximizing positive contributions to local biodiversity.

It’s also a way to reduce the impact of architectural design and materials on the natural environment, promoting habitats for plant and animal species and enhancing ecological functions within urban settings.

Biodiverse architecture aims to create sustainable and harmonious built environments that promote biodiversity conservation while meeting human needs. For instance, we now have office buildings that support and promote biodiversity via green rooftop terraces, green walls, and window boxes that feature a variety of plants.

What Role do Landscapers Play?

Landscapers may not be a part of the initial design team, but they still play a crucial role in designing a building that respects the rules of biodiversity. They work in harmony with architects to create outdoor spaces that enhance biodiversity and contribute to the overall sustainability of the project.

However, once you provide your insight, your job often starts once the building is up and ready to add the final touches. For instance, you can help choose native plant species that are well adapted to the local climate, reducing the need for excessive watering or chemical use.

You can also give your two cents when it comes to creating diverse ecological habitats, such as ponds, that support local flora and fauna. In addition, landscapers can integrate green infrastructure elements, like rain gardens or bioswales, into the site design to manage stormwater runoff and enhance water conservation efforts.

Overall, if you run a landscaping business, it’s a great idea to look for collaborators among local architecture companies. Just make sure to have the proper tools that will help you estimate and sell your landscaping work at the best price. After all, your knowledge and experience will help enhance those future buildings, so it’s important to get your fair share of the deal.

Can Architects & Landscapers Work Together?

When architects and landscapers work together, the result is absolutely astonishing. Architects are great at designing gorgeous buildings (commercial or residential), but it’s the experience of a landscaper that can bring that building to life.

As a landscaper, you can plan the placement of trees and shrubs to provide a natural shade, reducing the need for excessive cooling during hot periods. Also, you can incorporate green roofs or walls to create additional insulation for the building, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption.

Additionally, it’s the landscaper who designs outdoor spaces that encourage passive recreation, such as seating areas or walking paths.

All these touches enhance the overall aesthetic value of the building and promote physical activity and mental well-being. Therefore, your work contributes to creating a visually appealing and environmentally sustainable building that is efficient in terms of energy usage and adds value to its surroundings.

Biodiverse Architecture is the Future

A building that respects the rules of biodiversity in architecture incorporates several key features. Here are some of the most important ones:

The usage of sustainable construction materials that have minimal impact on natural resources and reduce pollution during the production process.
The design will include green elements, such as green roofs or walls, which provide additional habitat for plants and animals, promote rainwater harvesting, and improve energy efficiency.

The prioritization of natural ventilation and lighting systems to reduce dependency on mechanical systems while providing a healthier indoor environment.
Smart designs that incorporate native plant species and use permeable surfaces to manage stormwater runoff.

Wrap Up

By integrating nature into our buildings, we can create spaces that benefit both humans and the surrounding ecosystem. Biodiversity in architecture promotes a harmonious coexistence between nature and urban development, fostering healthier habitats, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing overall well-being.

As we embrace the principles of biodiverse architecture, we pave the way for a more sustainable future where our structures not only meet our needs but also respect the intricate web of life on our planet.

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