Landscape Architecture: A Manual of Site Planning and Design

I was surprised to see the two prior comments and suspect that they were not written by anyone in the landscape architecture field. This book has been the classic introductory text since the 1960s. As a text, it does not purport to be a definitive reference but rather to acquaint the student and layperson with the breadth of landscape architecture. It is not at all focused on the surface alone--Simonds has been one of the pioneers of sustainable ecological design, and the book proves it, covering, among other topics, natural water systems, native plants, greenways, and climate. As Simonds states, "The work of the landscape architect...is to help bring people...into harmonious relationship with the living earth--with the 'want to be' of the land." This book points us in the right direction!

This book covers all aspects of Landscape Architecture. For a student, this book takes landscape architecture and turns it around and exposes all facets. For a professional, it offers more points of view to stimulate your creativity.

This book is an EXCELLENT research and design tool, especially for landscape architecture students. The color photographs are incredible and numerous. Also there are HUNDREDS of simple to understand, wonderful illustrations. I find so much of the material helpful not only in guiding my design thought processes but also for use in presentations as well. Although I have many landscape architecture books, I find this is the one I go back to over and over again. I cannot emphasize enough how valuable it is too me and worth every cent it cost me. I truly believe that it should be a must for every future landscape architect.