Landscape Design 2
Site Design
This course introduces the landscape architectural design process. Emphasizing process and concept development, students identify a problem and then use site inventory, analysis, program development, and exploration to test solutions. Projects are small-scale sites—preferably actual and visitable, such as intimate courtyards, street plazas, and pocket parks—and/or physically built (i.e., limited use of computer drafting, rendering, and 3D modeling).
Instructor
Jim Smith + Nicholas Decker
Project Location
UCLA Campus
judges
Tyler Banken – Tyler Banken Design
Steve Poe – Tropic Land Design
Mike Singleton – KTU+A
Nahal Sohbati – Topophyla
Project 1: Murphy Sculpture Garden
SCASLA Achievement Award
The judges praised the project for its great analysis page and the clear breakdown of information, which made it easy to follow. The use of color, shadows, and topo lines in the design was commended for effectively distinguishing between hardscape and softscape, with the concept clearly communicated through simple and well-executed drawings. The perspectives and elevations stood out for their inclusion of people, which helped bring the design to life. The judges appreciated the thematic element of the “Garden of Success” and noted the overall work as confident and familiar with plans, calling it “wonderful.”
Garden of Success
Student: Zoë Marans
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SCASLA Honorable Mention
The judges appreciated the strong drawings and effective use of images throughout the analysis and concept process. The concept diagram was particularly noted for listing intended movements and activities, while the simple sections and elevations were praised for their clarity and depth. The project’s design was visually appealing, with well-executed colors and depth, though some refinement in rhythm and label consistency could enhance the presentation.
UCLA East Arroyo Sculpture Garden
Student: Josep Ferrer Miranda
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SCASLA Honorable Mention
The judges appreciated the clean and simple graphics in the illustrative, particularly the hand-drawn quality and how it effectively conveyed the land’s movement. The sections were noted for their good linework hierarchy and clear communication, especially the sunken area and enlargements. The perspectives were praised for their use of color to define sculptures and the three-dimensional approach to the design. The sculpture page was also well-received, though adding artist names would provide more context. Overall, the project demonstrated a thoughtful and visually successful design.
Murphy Sculpture Garden
Student: Katja Peppe
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SCASLA Honorable Mention
The judges appreciated the clear and effective graphics, particularly in the concept and plan, where the use of shadows and dashed topography lines enhanced readability. The incorporation of sculptures with accompanying images was well-executed, and the tree massing effectively defined space, adding a strong sense of consistency to the design. The overall movement in the plan was praised for its clarity, and the sketches showed thoughtful exploration of space and perspective.
Murphy Sculpture Garden
Student: Mia Skolnik
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SCASLA Excellence Award
The judges were impressed with the strong connection between form and function in the site plan, as well as the effective use of positive and negative space. The perspectives stood out, with one judge particularly noting their desire to hire the student for perspective drawings. The clean and effective sections, along with the thoughtful integration of existing and proposed trees, demonstrated a well-executed design approach that ties back to the concept development.
Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden Redevelopment
Student: Danielle Siqueira
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SCASLA Excellence Award
The judges loved the fun, engaging personality that showed throughout the project. The presentation was clear and legible, with excellent labeling that allowed the reader to easily follow along without explanation. The interactive sculptures were a standout, and the combination of hand-drawn and digital elements was well-executed. The illustrative plan pulled the viewer in, with a strong thought process and clear labeling. The perspectives were praised for their pencil work and advanced technique in defining trees by leaves, while the overall presentation was organized and enjoyable, reflecting the student’s passion for the design.
The Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden
Student: Patrese Winter