Often when we talk about transportation, we think of the networks of streets and highways that keep people and things moving around our city. But Seattle’s green spaces, and the landscape architects who design them, are an integral part of our transportation network! Here at SDOT, our Landscape Architect Unit, headed by Senior Landscape Architect Shane Dewald, takes on the task of designing the landscapes that filter our stormwater, reduce urban temperatures, beautify our city, and even increase public safety.
So while the bulbs are blooming, street trees are leafing out, and spring is getting into full swing, what better time than the month of April to pause and appreciate the ways in which landscape architects improve our public spaces and everyday lives?
Well it just so happens that April is World Landscape Architecture Month!
World Landscape Architecture Month is sponsored by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) and aims to “connect each of ASLA’s 49 chapters with a landscape architect or organization in a foreign country.” And, as part of the celebration, ASLA is inviting people from all around the world to share photos of their favorite landscape-architect-designed spaces. To find more information on World Landscape Architecture Month, ALSA, or to share photos of your favorite landscapes, visit ASLA’s website here.
And next time you’re in your car, on the bus, or just taking a stroll through your neighborhood, take a moment to appreciate how much landscape architecture adds to our city’s transportation experience. If you feel extra inspired, snap a photo and share it with the world as part of Landscape Architecture Month!