What is the difference between a Designer and an Architect?

Lots of places offer landscape design services and many of those will tell you about their designer's years of experience. So why is there a distinction between a Landscape Designer and a Landscape Architect.

A Landscape Designer can be anyone. They may have a degree in Landscape Architecture. They may have a degree in Horticulture. They may have years of experience working for a Nursery or Landscape Contractor. A Landscape Designer could be anyone with any amount of experience. So if you are considering hiring someone who is a designer, you really need to pay attention to what kind of training they have and what their experience is like. Some designers are really good, but their is no minimum standard for being a Landscape Designer.

A Landscape Architect is required to be licensed. That license means they have at least a bachelors degree in Landscape Architecture and have passed a national exam. That national exam includes design, lighting, grading and drainage, conceptualizing, planning, and a lot more. The test is difficult enough that less than 20% of people pass the test the first time. Many states require two years of work experience before they will allow you to take the test. Many states also require that a Landscape Architect participates in continuing education to maintain their license. So while it is still important to verify the experience of a Landscape Architect, you already know that they meet the state's minimum requirements and competency for performing the work. A Licensed Landscape Architect is also a Certified Irrigation Designer and can prepare Site Plans.

A good designer, licensed or otherwise, will have a variety of experience and a system that involves the client. Many contractors and nurseries offer a basic design service where they will put plants on a plan for you. It is very affordable. Consider though, you will have to live with that yard for years. It is what you see every time you come home. Its where you spend time on the weekends. Your yard should be a reflection of you, your house, and how you will use it for years to come.