How to Be a Commercial Landscape Designer

Commercial landscape designers enhance the landscape and visual appeal of properties and businesses.

In most states, there is a distinct line drawn between landscape architects and landscape designers. The training of a landscape architect includes knowledge about environmental issues and the technical planning and development of urban areas. Landscape designers are not trained in the technical aspects of the landscape, but focus more on plant layout and curb appeal. Trained and certified commercial landscape designers have a wide choice when it comes to choosing a target audience requiring their skills.

Things You'll Need

• Funding for fees, licenses, certification, training

Instructions

1. Get educated on the topic of commercial landscape design. A two-year associate's degree as a landscape specialist is enough to get started. Programs are offered at community colleges and universities all over the United States. Additional training as a horticulturalist can add to a landscape designer's skill set.

2. Get work experience with a commercial landscape design company, or a commercial facility with an in-house landscape team. There are a number of commercial landscape opportunities to explore, including design positions with cemeteries, golf courses, hospitals, real estate management companies, shopping malls and museums.

3. Check with the state you reside in about licensing requirements. Laws regarding the definition of the work a commercial landscape designer can do vary from state to state. Some states may require licensing; others may not. Find out about required licensing, permitting and regulations regarding landscape installation.

4. Get certified. Designers may benefit from attaining a certification in addition to an associate's degree, especially in states where a license is not required. The Association of Professional Landscape Designers offers a certification program that requires four years of work experience before applying for the certification. Check with state associations focused on landscape and associated topics for certification programs. Michigan and Florida are two states that offer certification for landscape designers.

References

• Careers in Architecture; Blythe Cameron; 2002
• Association of Professional Landscape Designers: Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

• Association of Professional Landscape Designers
• Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association
• Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association