Landscape Architects

AP BD+C (Accredited Professional in Building Design and Construction)

Golf Course Architect

Land Planner

Landscape Architect

Landscape Designer

Landscape Planner

Park Planner

Planner

Professional Landscape Architect (PLA)

What is a Landscape Architect?

Landscape architects are professionals who design outdoor spaces, integrating natural and built environments to create functional and aesthetically pleasing landscapes. They work on a variety of projects, including parks, gardens, residential areas, commercial developments, and urban revitalization efforts. Their responsibilities encompass site analysis, planning, and the design of landscapes that enhance ecological health, promote sustainability, and provide recreational and visual enjoyment for the public. By collaborating with architects, planners, engineers, and environmental scientists, landscape architects aim to produce spaces that not only meet human needs but also respect and preserve the environment. They often utilize a combination of artistic vision and technical knowledge, applying principles of design, horticulture, and environmental science to develop innovative and effective landscape solutions. Their work contributes significantly to community well-being and can influence land use policies and practices that shape our built environments.

Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$50000.0 - $125600.0

New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average

Finding local jobs...

Assessment

Related assessments and tests

No assessment available.

Related Occupations

Tasks

Prepare graphic representations or drawings of proposed plans or designs.
Confer with clients, engineering personnel, or architects on landscape projects.
Integrate existing land features or landscaping into designs.
Inspect landscape work to ensure compliance with specifications, evaluate quality of materials or work, or advise clients or construction personnel.
Analyze data on conditions such as site location, drainage, or structure location for environmental reports or landscaping plans.

Technology Skills

Computer aided design CAD software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint 365
Graphics or photo imaging software
Geographic information system
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel 365

Tools Used

Scanners
- Computer scanners
Global positioning system GPS receiver
- Global positioning system GPS receivers
Notebook computers
- Laptop computers
Digital cameras
Digital camcorders or video cameras
- Digital camcorders

Knowledge

Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

16 Active Jobs in South Africa

Avg Salary: R37,329pm

Determining Your Readiness for a Career in Landscape Architecture in South Africa

Landscape Architecture is a sophisticated blend of art, science, and environmental stewardship. As South Africa continues to focus on sustainable urban development and the rehabilitation of public spaces, the demand for skilled professionals is on the rise. Currently, there are 14 active jobs in the sector. Financial prospects are equally encouraging; while the average salary is R37,329pm, market data from 2024 shows a strong upward trajectory, with entry-level professional earnings growing from approximately R32,850 in January to projected figures exceeding R41,000 by December.

Is Landscape Architecture Right for Me? (Psychometric Checklist)

Before committing to this career path, consider if you possess the core traits and inclinations necessary for success in the South African built environment:

Spatial Intelligence: Can you easily visualise 3D structures and landscapes while looking at a flat 2D plan?
Ecological Sensitivity: Do you have a deep interest in South African flora, biodiversity, and sustainable water management?
Technical Aptitude: Are you comfortable using (or learning) complex design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite?
Problem-Solving Mindset: Do you enjoy the challenge of balancing aesthetic goals with functional requirements and environmental constraints?
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Are you prepared to communicate effectively with architects, engineers, and environmental consultants?
Resilience: Can you manage long-term projects that involve both meticulous studio work and rigorous outdoor site inspections?

A Day in the Life of a South African Landscape Architect

In the South African context, your day is rarely static. You might begin your morning in a design studio in Johannesburg or Cape Town, refining a master plan for a new public park or a sustainable housing estate. By midday, you could be out on-site, wearing high-visibility gear and a hard hat, supervising the installation of indigenous planting or ensuring that drainage systems align with your specifications.

The afternoon often involves high-stakes meetings with property developers, municipal officials, or community stakeholders. You are the bridge between nature and the built environment, ensuring that a project not only looks beautiful but also survives the local climate, conserves water, and provides social value to the community.

Education & Upskilling

To practice as a professional Landscape Architect in South Africa, you must eventually register with the South African Council for the Landscape Architectural Profession (SACLAP). This journey typically begins with formal education:

Formal Degrees: Most professionals pursue a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture or a Master’s degree from accredited institutions like the University of Pretoria or the University of Cape Town. These programmes provide the foundational knowledge in design theory, ecology, and construction.
TVET and Technical Training: For those entering the field from a technical or horticultural background, diplomas in Landscape Technology offer a practical route into the industry.
Short Courses & Certifications: Staying competitive requires mastering specific niches. Short courses in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Building Information Modelling (BIM), or specialized Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are highly valued.

It is crucial to recognise that continuous learning is the cornerstone of this profession. As environmental regulations change and new "green" technologies emerge, staying updated through CPD (Continuous Professional Development) courses is not just encouraged—it is essential for maintaining your professional standing and relevance in the market.

Next Steps

Deciding on a career path is a significant milestone. If you feel an affinity for design and a calling to shape the South African landscape for future generations, it is time to validate your instincts. Take the next step in your professional journey and test your readiness now by completing our comprehensive career assessment. Discover if you have the hidden attributes to become one of South Africa’s leading Landscape Architects.

Skills

Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

Abilities

Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Visualization
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Category Flexibility
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

Bachelor's degree

68 %
Master's degree

18 %
Professional degree

11 %

Awarded for completion of a program that: requires at least 2 years of college work before entrance into the program, includes a total of at least 6 academic years of work to complete, and provides all remaining academic requirements to begin practice in a profession

Work Activities

Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Thinking Creatively
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Detailed Work Activities

Create graphical representations of structures or landscapes.
Discuss designs or plans with clients.
Incorporate green features into the design of structures or facilities.
Inspect facilities or sites to determine if they meet specifications or standards.
Analyze physical, survey, or geographic data.

Work Interests

Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Artistic
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.