Landscape Architecture

The Value of Proper Irrigation Design (For Your Pocketbook and the Planet)

March 7th, 2022
When we talk about landscape architecture, one of the most important factors to consider is irrigation. Why? Well, plants need water! And while they do get this naturally from rainfall, a proper irrigation design will make the most of that rainfall and other sources of hydration. That can save you money, improve the conditions of the environment, keep people in the landscape safe, and help the planet. It’s no small list! So, let’s discuss the value of proper irrigation design in a little more detail.   Irrigation Keeps Plants Healthy (And Looking Like It) This is probably the most obvious benefit of proper irrigation design, but it is inarguably key! What is the point of pouring time and money into a landscape design that ends up looking wilted or brown? If you don’t invest in a proper irrigation design (via Certified Irrigation Designers; more on that here), this could happen!  The…
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How Do Bodies of Water Create Microclimates? 

February 8th, 2022
We posted recently about the role of microclimates in commercial landscape architecture, but did you know that bodies of water create microclimates? In fact, they have a major influence on the way a landscape organically functions. Today, we’re going to cover the ins and outs of how it happens, so you can better understand one part of your landscape architect’s perspective for your property.  What Are Microclimates?  First, let’s recap with some insights from our previous post on the subject … Merriam-Webster defines a microclimate as “the essentially uniform local climate of a usually small site or habitat.”  In terms of commercial landscaping, you can think of it like this: Outside of a children’s hospital, there is a small park. It contains a bench with trees that provide shade right above it, a patch of flowers next to a stretch of green space to play or picnic, and a swing…
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3 Reasons You Should Hire Certified Irrigation Designers (#1 Says it All!)

January 10th, 2022
As you embark on a landscape architecture project, there are many variables to consider. From designing the flow of each space to selecting plant life that suits your microclimate, the factors to think about go on and on. And there is one addition to the checklist that doesn’t always get its due: irrigation. Many landscape architecture firms give this job to engineers. But today, we’re going to talk about why you want to ensure that certified irrigation designers are on the task!  #1 Irrigation is Not the Time for Half Measures While you could make the argument that anyone can choose plants for their landscape, the value of an expert is obvious. They can make selections informed by years of education and experience. This ensures that they are the ideal installations for your unique landscape and microclimate. Plus, they’ve got an eye for pairing various plant life beautifully.  But when…
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Microclimates for Commercial Landscaping: The What, Why, and How of Planting for Locality

December 13th, 2021
When you set out to design a beautiful landscape for your commercial property, there are a lot of variables to consider. You have to think about how the spaces will be used, the feelings you want them to evoke in people, and the way they complement buildings and hardscape.  A key part of achieving your goals for all of those factors is thinking carefully about the plantings you incorporate. It might seem unquestioningly positive to integrate native plantings. And indeed, this concept (which has become something of a buzz phrase in recent years) does represent an idea that benefits the environment. However, there is a difference between plants and flowers that are native to your region and those that will thrive in the specific area you plan to plant them. And this, my friends, is the art of understanding microclimates!  Let’s explore the topic further and learn how microclimates for…
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benefits of landscape architecture with trees

Benefits of Landscape Architecture with Trees: Why We Should Restore Canopies After Hurricanes

November 5th, 2021
In 2021, we have experienced the third most active hurricane season on record. As so many places have been impacted by these intense storms in the past year, the conversation surrounding the importance of tree canopies has resurfaced. (Although, it’s always one we here at Jerry Pate Design enjoy talking about!) Today, we’re going to share a few benefits of landscape architecture with trees to show why we should restore canopies after hurricanes.  Benefits Of Trees: They Protect the Planet We all hear a lot of talk about climate change floating around, but it can be difficult to get a clear answer on what really causes it. But here’s one insight Climate.gov has shared: “Increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide are responsible for about two-thirds of the total energy imbalance that is causing Earth’s temperature to rise.”  That means that if we can work toward reducing carbon dioxide, we can begin…
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