My firm focuses on recreation and park planning, so the first disclaimer I would point out is that it matters what type of park is being planned, and also the context of the park’s existing or planned surroundings. For a sports park, functionality usually takes precedence. Proper field dimensions, ample spectator shade and clean restrooms are welcomed with cheers, regardless of whether they pick up the same Craftsman nuances of the neighboring community center building.

Definition of terms: "Team members" should include Client's management and operations staff. For any project, a kickoff session with all members in attendance allows relationships and movement towards common goals to begin. In the Discovery phase, the team establishes a clear set of design criteria from the stakeholder input, program, and Client vision for the park. The park HAS TO FUNCTION in regard to (ideally) integrated nature based stormwater, programming + adjacency, inclusivity, flexibility, and maintenance considerations. Aesthetics=the FUN part! A strong form generating concept allows all the team to contribute + collaborate on solutions (esp interdisciplinary!). The design responses are evaluated against the established criteria.

After thoroughly assessing the site across a couple of seasons, we would begin a community engagement process before we would even begin to start drawing designs. We use the community feedback to influence the design, while allowing for specific park requirements depending on park typology, including tree retention/protection, interesting activities spread across the site, accessibility and inclusive spaces. Being conversant with the site, walking the site many times, talking to people from the area who use the site, or will use the site, all of that leads to a functional and aesthetically pleasing outcome.

My team and I embrace the principle of "No harm and no reciprocating harm." This principle underscores the importance of avoiding harm to ourselves, others, and the surrounding environment. Each of us considers the well-being of people, ecology, and both tangible and intangible elements. Currently, we are focusing on rebuilding and reclaiming destroyed and damaged outdoor spaces. We’re exploring how landscape architects can restore these areas to make them healthy and vibrant again. The significance of this question has never felt more crucial than it does today.

In my professional opinion, the best designs come from a charette design process. A thorough site analysis should be side by side during the charette along with a proper survey. Wants, needs and goals are identified and designs come together while hiring a talented group of Landscape Architects to prepare sketches and idea plans!

Para combinar estética y funcionalidad debemos tener muy claros los objetivos del futuro parque, ¿cual va a ser su uso? Dependiendo de lo que se esté buscando, adaptaremos el diseño acorde con la finalidad y sobre eso aplicaremos la estética para conseguir un resultado óptimo.

En Garden Chic, entablamos una conversacion abierta y sincera a cerca de nuestras expectativas del proyecto y como este impactara en la sociedad y en como se enriquecera nuestra experiencia de participar en el proyecto. Luego manos a la acciòn y trabajamos hasta armar un primer bosquejo el cual lo validamos con el cliente y si ellos y nosotros estamos alineados continuamos en una misma direcciòn.

I see aesthetics as a natural outcome of functionality. A good park is one that the community actively uses, so its primary function must be well understood—who it will serve, what activities it will support, its emotional significance to the population, and how it fits within the city. With these needs in mind, aesthetics emerge from solutions designed to enhance or encourage its use. The team must stay informed, with regular meetings to prioritize what is essential and what can be compromised.

Garantir que um projeto atenda tanto às necessidades estéticas quanto funcionais exige uma abordagem equilibrada e colaborativa. Algumas estratégias que utilizo incluem: 1. **Compreensão das Necessidades do Cliente e do Usuário Final**: Começo buscando uma compreensão clara das expectativas dos clientes e das necessidades dos usuários finais. Realizo reuniões com todos os envolvidos, desde a equipe técnica até os usuários do espaço, para coletar percepções e identificar prioridades. 2. **Criação de Briefing Detalhado**: Desenvolvo um briefing que equilibre as demandas estéticas e funcionais, priorizando o que é essencial para cada uma dessas frentes. Definir esses critérios desde o início evita conflitos mais adiante.

There should be an initial ideea drawn from a broader understanding of the briefing (the needs of the community, place and resources -for organising and maintaining the project. Then addressing the technical issues and solving them in the most appropriate ways which is the aestethic itself.