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LI Campus
Digital tools have revolutionised landscape design, allowing for more precise planning and execution. © Vectorworks
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Vectorworks
How landscape design contributes to effective soil conservation
Available to download on LI Campus
How digital tools can streamline the design process and aid decision-making to enhance soil health.
Landscape design plays a pivotal role in soil conservation while focusing on the proposed landscape’s aesthetical and ecological value. The primary objective of landscape design in this context is to enhance soil health, prevent soil erosion, and promote biodiversity. With an effective planning strategy, balanced land use, and diverse plant selection, landscape designers can create resilient ecosystems that protect and nourish soil. With the assistance of digital tools, the design process can be streamlined, while helping designers to assess the existing site conditions or to produce cut and fill calculations more effectively.
One key design objective is to implement vegetation that stabilises soil. Deep-rooted plants, such as native grasses and shrubs, are often incorporated into designs to create a dense root system that minimises erosion, enhances the soil structure, and contributes to carbon sequestration. Additionally, incorporating contour planting and terracing can effectively manage water runoff, reducing the risk of soil degradation.
Digital tools have revolutionised landscape design, allowing for more precise planning and execution. Geographic Information System (GIS) and computer-aided design (CAD) software enable designers to map the soil types, analyse topography and hydrology and calculate the volume of soil enhancements to form a healthy soil matrix for the proposed planting, all of which lead to informed decisions that enhance soil conservation. These tools facilitate the creation of detailed site plans that integrate sustainable solutions, such as rain gardens or permeable paving, helping to manage stormwater and reduce surface runoff.
The positive environmental impact of effective landscape design extends beyond soil conservation. By fostering healthy ecosystems, designers contribute to carbon sequestration and enriched biodiversity. The use of local resources and materials is crucial for reducing embodied carbon. Having a digital representation of the existing products and materials not only helps with carbon estimation and producing accurate material take-offs, but also leads to resourcefulness as it helps to minimise soil waste and material consumption.
Ultimately integrating landscape design and soil conservation practices contributes to a sustainable environment that benefits both people and planet. By embracing innovative design strategies and digital tools, landscape architects can lead the way in preserving soil while creating resilient landscapes.
vectorworks.net
Blakedown Landscapes
Contracts for collaboration
Available to download on LI Campus
Blakedown Landscapes provide a contractor’s perspective on understanding Contractor’s Design Portion (CDP) in construction projects.
CDP is an important concept within construction, especially in projects using JCT contracts. Essentially, it offers a hybrid approach that blends traditional design responsibilities with elements of Design and Build (D&B). CDP allows contractors to take responsibility for specific design elements while the overall design remains under the design team’s control. This collaborative method is particularly valuable for specialised components where contractors’ expertise can enhance feasibility and efficiency.
Why CDP is effective
CDP allows contractors more control over design implementation. They can adapt designs to align with real-world construction methods, reducing the risk of delays and costly rework. Collaboration between contractors and design teams is enhanced, leading to better problem-solving and cost management. Contractors can propose cost-effective materials or techniques based on their hands-on knowledge, keeping projects within budget while maintaining quality.
Moreover, CDP promotes innovation. Contractors responsible for certain design aspects can suggest creative solutions or methods that may not have been considered initially, improving functionality and project performance.
Challenges of CDP
Despite its advantages, CDP comes with challenges. Tender accuracy can be tricky. Estimating the cost of specialised design elements during the tender process can be difficult, particularly when the design involves components outside the contractor’s usual expertise. There’s a risk of underestimating or overestimating, which can lead to issues later in the project. Tight project timelines may also suffer from delays due to the additional time needed to finalise CDP designs, secure approvals, and implement changes.
Increased liability is another concern. When contractors take on design responsibilities, they also assume the risk for design flaws. If issues arise, contractors face potential disputes or costly revisions.
Additionally, conflicts may occur with the design team. Sometimes, contractors might propose changes for practical reasons, but these changes might not align with the original vision of the design team. This can cause friction and affect the overall project.
Best practices for success
For CDP to succeed, early engagement between contractors and design teams is crucial. Contractors should participate in initial design discussions to align expectations and avoid misunderstandings. Clear documentation helps maintain consistency and reduces miscommunication risks.
Maintaining open communication throughout the project ensures issues are resolved promptly. Regular meetings between contractors, design teams, and clients facilitate smoother project execution.
Conclusion
CDP offers contractors a chance to leverage their practical expertise, enhancing collaboration, efficiency, and innovation. Though challenges exist, with early engagement, clear communication, and teamwork, CDP can deliver specialised elements smoothly and to the highest standards.
blakedown.co.uk
