Are you planning a new outdoor kitchen, backyard patio or other outdoor living space? If so, you’re likely looking for help to turn your ideas into reality, and perhaps you’re wondering who’s the best person to partner with you on your new project? Here’s what you need to know about the titles “landscape architect” and “landscape designer” to ensure you’re getting the right person for the job:
Landscape Architects Are Licensed by the State
Although there are many qualified landscape designers in and around the Knoxville, Tennessee area, the title landscape designer isn’t regulated by the state of Tennessee, which can lead to a lot of uncertainty about the qualifications of the designer. Landscape architects on the other hand, must have met certain criteria established by the state, guaranteeing that the person you’re working with has the education, training and experience to do the work well.
Requirements to Be a Licensed Landscape Architect
In Tennessee, licensed landscape architects are required to have passed a series of national exams demonstrating mastery of several areas of landscape architecture.
In addition to passing these exams, to be considered a landscape architect in Tennessee, a person must have also graduated from a landscape architecture program that’s accredited by the The Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board.
A landscape architect in Tennessee must also have at least two years of professional experience working under a licensed landscape architect, and must complete continuing education hours to maintain his or her landscape architect’s license.
Landscape Architect Vs. Landscape Designer
So what does this mean for you? When you decide to work with a state-licensed landscape architect with a Professional Landscape Architect (PLA) designation, you’re getting someone who has:
- Obtained and demonstrated knowledge that’s critical to landscape architecture;
- Been trained by a qualified professional; and
- Dedicated himself or herself to learning new professional guidelines and techniques.
When you choose to work with a landscape designer, you’re getting someone who:
- May or may not have studied landscape design or architecture;
- May or may not have been trained in landscape design; and
- Has not necessarily committed to continuing education in the field.
Carex Design Group’s Licensed Landscape Architect
Carex Design Group’s owner is a professional landscape architect or PLA who is licensed by the state of Tennessee.
Bob is a graduate of Purdue University’s top-ranked landscape architecture program, and got his start in South Florida where he designed landscapes for many high-end homes, master-planned communities and high-rise developments under the direction of a licensed landscape architect.
He also took and passed five national landscape architecture exams covering:
- Legal and Administrative Aspects of Practice
- Analytical Aspects of Practice
- Planning and Site Design
- Structural Considerations and Materials and Methods of Construction
- Grading, Drainage and Stormwater Management
Bob also regularly attends educational training and seminars covering topics such as industry trends, construction best practices and unique design applications.
You can read more about Bob here on our website.
Free Consultation With a Landscape Architect
If you’d like to meet with Bob to talk about your next landscaping project, call him directly at 865-765-5550 or fill out our online form to schedule a meeting via email.