Studio Project - Site, Concept and Theory
Course description
The focus of this course is on the design process in landscape architecture. It spans the intricate interplay from concept development, via design theory and artistic methods, to design proposals. The course is based on one or several design tasks in different kinds of landscapes. Through these design tasks, specific and general questions on landscape architecture will be discussed, together with theory of landscape design. Inspiration comes from contemporary, practical and theoretical examples within landscape architecture. The course participants will also be encouraged to seek inspiration from other fields such as architecture, painting, sculpture, music, dance and theatre. Furthermore, participants are encouraged to experimentally develop and appraise different design methods in an independent way.
Find portfolio instructions on: https://www.slu.se/lam-portfolio/
Entry Requirements
• architecture
• landscape architecture
• landscape planning
• built environment
• design
• spatial planning
• geography
• landscape science
• environmental science
• civil engineering
and an approved portfolio according to specific instructions. See link for portfolio instructions under additional information.
OR 150 credits from the Landscape Architecture programme at SLU or an Erasmus partner university
and the equivalent of 15 credits in Landscape Architecture on second cycle level
and English 6 or equivalent.
Course facts
LK0454, Studio Project - Site, Concept and Theory, 15.0 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: PN-LT, 2024-11-11
Valid from : Spring semester 2026 (2026-01-19)
Level
Second cycle (A1F)
Main field of study
Landscape Architecture
Grading Scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Course language
English
Entry Requirements
• architecture
• landscape architecture
• landscape planning
• built environment
• design
• spatial planning
• geography
• landscape science
• environmental science
• civil engineering
and an approved portfolio according to specific instructions. See link for portfolio instructions under additional information.
OR 150 credits from the Landscape Architecture programme at SLU or an Erasmus partner university
and the equivalent of 15 credits in Landscape Architecture on second cycle level
and English 6 or equivalent.
Objectives
The course aims for the student to explore artistic design methods and, based on a critical approach, independently apply these in a design project, with an emphasis on design process, concept development, spatial design and artistic forms of expression. The course aims in particular to strengthen the student in the early stages of design.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
• reflect on the process of designing landscapes
• deal with complex design situations and find personal solutions to them
• comprehend the importance of concept development and method approach in landscape design and apply relevant means to communicate this
• relate his/her working methods to relevant design theories and methods applicable to landscape architecture
• analyze and discuss what makes good design in landscape architecture
Content
The focus of this course is on the design process in landscape architecture. It spans the intricate interplay from concept development, via design theory and artistic methods, to design proposals. The course is based on one or several design tasks in different kinds of landscapes. Through these design tasks, specific and general questions on landscape architecture will be discussed, together with theory of landscape design.
Inspiration comes from contemporary, practical and theoretical examples within landscape architecture. The course participants will also be encouraged to seek inspiration from other fields such as architecture, painting, sculpture, music, dance and theatre.
The course is aimed at international participation and offers possibilities to explore both multilateral and intuitive approaches to the design process. The participants are encouraged to experimentally develop and appraise different design methods in an independent way. Each participant shall present alternative design proposals and critically evaluate their own and others’ proposals, presentations and argumentations. Importance is given to the presentation - communication - which is carried out verbally and visually through e.g. illustrations and models. The student shall be aware of the creative spark that characterizes "good design".
Attention is paid to the personal development of each student. The participants are to take active part in formulating their own briefs and also in developing the day to day schedule within the set course frame.
The course gives 15 skills training credits for students in the Landscape Architecture Programme.
Teaching formats:
To further student learning and promote discussion, a variety of methods are used: lectures, excursions (compulsory), supervision exercises (compulsory), literature seminars (compulsory), criticism/reviews (compulsory), independent studio work and independent writing work.
The course focuses on the following generic competencies: creativity, independence, teamwork, critical thinking, artistic methods and artistic forms of expression, spatial design, verbal and written communication. In addition, digital skills are also included.
Collaboration with society takes place through study visits, guest lectures, masterclass formats where students learn directly from artists and practicing landscape architects who demonstrate their methods and approaches, exhibitions, cases/assignments in collaboration with artists, researchers and planners.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
Attendance at scheduled learning activities; a pass on submitted examinations and seminar work. Specifications of compulsory attendance and assignments are given at course start. Examiner will evaluate the quality of compulsory assignments submitted and presented by students. Students’ knowledge and their ability to engage each other in critical and analytical discussions will also be assessed in the reviews and in the literature seminars.
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Landscape Architecture, Planning and Management
Supplementary information
Included in program
- Landscape Architecture Programme, Alnarp
- Landscape Architecture- Master's Programme
Module set
| Title | Credits | Code |
|---|---|---|
| Single module | 15.0 | 0101 |
The Course Replaces
LK0334, LK0367, LK0450
Other Information
High attendance during the independent studio work is strongly recommended and necessary.
There may be additional costs for an optional study tour.
Students admitted to Landscape Architecture – Master´s Programme 2011-2019 are eligible for the course.
Students admitted to Landscape Architecture – Master´s Programme (LAM) 2020 and following years are eligible for the course if a portfolio is approved.
Find portfolio instructions on: https://www.slu.se/lam-portfolio/