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The importance of accessibility in landscape architecture

Landscape architecture is an art and science that involves designing outdoor spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. One crucial aspect of landscape architecture is accessibility, which refers to designing spaces that can be used by everyone and are accessible to the population at large, including those with disabilities. At McNeil Engineering, we ensure our projects contain accessibility features so everyone can enjoy and experience them.

Accessibility is essential in landscape architecture, as it enables people to use and enjoy outdoor spaces to the fullest extent possible. Outdoor spaces that are inaccessible or difficult to navigate can be frustrating and discouraging for people with disabilities, limiting their ability to participate in social activities, exercise or simply enjoy the outdoors. Therefore, incorporating accessibility features into landscape architecture is crucial for ensuring that outdoor spaces are inclusive and equitable for all.

Here are some reasons why accessibility is so important in landscape architecture:

Inclusivity

Accessibility features in landscape architecture enable people with disabilities to use and enjoy outdoor spaces on an equal footing with everyone else. This inclusivity promotes social integration and reduces stigmatization and discrimination against people with disabilities. It also creates a sense of community and belonging for people with disabilities, who may otherwise feel isolated and excluded from outdoor activities.

Health Benefits

Accessible outdoor spaces have significant health benefits for people with disabilities. Spending time outdoors can help reduce stress, improve mood and enhance overall physical and mental health. Accessible outdoor spaces enable people with disabilities to enjoy these benefits and enhance their quality of life.

Legal Requirements

In many countries, accessibility is a legal requirement for outdoor spaces. Laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States mandate that public outdoor areas must be accessible to people with disabilities. Failure to comply with these laws can result in legal consequences, such as fines and lawsuits. Therefore, incorporating accessibility features into landscape architecture is a moral obligation and a legal requirement.

Economic Benefits

Accessible outdoor spaces have economic benefits for the community as a whole. They attract a more diverse group of visitors, including people with disabilities, their families and friends. This increased foot traffic can increase local businesses and tourism revenue. Additionally, accessible outdoor spaces can increase property values in surrounding areas, making them more attractive to potential buyers.

Sustainable Design

Incorporating accessibility features into landscape architecture promotes sustainable design. Features such as permeable paving, rain gardens, and green roofs can enhance accessibility while conserving water, reducing stormwater runoff and improving air quality. Additionally, sustainable design can reduce maintenance costs and increase the longevity of outdoor spaces, making them more accessible and functional over time.

So, what are some examples of accessibility features in landscape architecture? Here are a few:

Accessible Pathways

Accessible pathways are essential for people with disabilities to navigate outdoor spaces safely and independently. These pathways should be wide enough for wheelchairs and mobility aids, with a smooth and slip-resistant surface. Additionally, pathways should be well-lit and free of obstacles that may obstruct people’s movement.

Seating Areas

Seating areas are an essential feature of accessible outdoor spaces, allowing people to rest and relax. Seating areas should be designed to accommodate people with disabilities, with benches and chairs that are easy to access and use. Additionally, seating areas should be placed in shaded areas and protected from the elements.

Ramps and Lifts

Ramps and lifts are critical accessibility features that enable people with disabilities to navigate elevation changes. These features should be designed to be easily accessible and safe to use, with non-slip surfaces and appropriate handrails. Additionally, ramps and lifts should be located in well-lit and visible areas to ensure all users’ safety.

Braille and Tactile Signage

Braille and tactile signage are essential accessibility features for people with visual impairments. These signs provide information about the outdoor space, such as directions, warnings, and amenities. Braille and tactile signage should be located at strategic points along accessible pathways and designed to be easily readable and understandable.

Accessible Planters and Gardens

In urban gardens or design features, accessible planters and gardens should be available. They provide people with disabilities the opportunity to engage in gardening activities. These features should be designed to be easily accessible, with raised garden beds that are wheelchair-friendly and easy to use. Additionally, plants and gardening tools should be selected to ensure they are easy to reach and use for people with disabilities.

Accessibility is a crucial aspect of landscape architecture that promotes inclusivity, enhances health, meets legal requirements, provides economic benefits, and promotes sustainable design. Incorporating accessibility features into outdoor spaces ensures that people with disabilities can enjoy the benefits of the outdoors to the fullest extent possible. Therefore, landscape architects should prioritize accessibility in their designs and work to create outdoor spaces that are inclusive and equitable for all.

We hope you’ll contact us if you ever need a landscape architect to help you with a new project, or if you’d like to update an existing structure for more accessibility. You can also check out some of our previous landscape architecture projects here.

What is the future of landscape architecture?

Landscape architecture has been around for centuries; over time, it has evolved to address various challenges and opportunities. From designing public parks and gardens to planning entire cities and regions, landscape architects have played a critical role in shaping our world. But what does the future hold for this field? In this blog post, we will explore some of the emerging trends and innovations that are likely to shape the future of landscape architecture, and the future of projects of our landscape architects here at McNeil Engineering.

Sustainable Design

As concerns about climate change continue to grow, landscape architects will be increasingly called upon to design sustainable landscapes that can help mitigate its impacts. This will involve using various techniques, such as green roofs, rain gardens or permeable pavements, to reduce runoff and improve water quality. Additionally, landscape architects must consider using different types of renewable materials and energy sources. Landscape Architects might also incorporate carbon sequestration strategies, where carbon is removed from the atmosphere and held in a solid or liquid state, into their designs.

Resilience Planning

The increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires and floods, has highlighted the need for landscape architects to design resilient landscapes. This will involve developing strategies to help communities bounce back from disasters quickly and efficiently and creating landscapes that absorb and adapt to changing conditions.

Technological Integration

Technology integration into landscape architecture will continue to accelerate in the coming years. This will involve 3D modeling software, drones and other advanced tools to help designers create more accurate and detailed designs. Additionally, landscape architects will increasingly rely on data-driven approaches to inform their designs, using data analytics to understand the needs and behaviors of users, as well as to predict the impacts of climate change.

Health and Well-being

Landscape architects have long recognized the importance of designing spaces that promote human health and well-being. In the future, this will become an even greater focus, as cities and communities look to address the growing problem of physical inactivity and the associated health problems it creates. Landscape architects will be called upon to design parks, public spaces, and streetscapes that promote physical activity and social interaction and create green spaces that can help reduce stress and improve mental health.

Biodiversity Conservation

As the world’s population grows and urban areas expand, the need to conserve biodiversity will become increasingly pressing. Landscape architects will play a critical role in this effort, designing landscapes supporting a wide range of plant and animal species and creating habitat corridors that can help connect fragmented ecosystems.

Equity

The landscape architecture profession has historically been criticized for its role in creating exclusive and segregated spaces. In the future, landscape architects will need to become more attuned to the issue of equity, working to create inclusive public spaces that serve the needs of all members of society. This will involve engaging with local communities to understand their needs and aspirations and designing landscapes that promote access and participation for all.

Water Management

The management of water resources will continue to be a critical issue in the future, as climate change and population growth put increasing pressure on freshwater supplies. Landscape architects will be called upon to design landscapes that can help manage water resources more effectively, using techniques such as rainwater harvesting, graywater reuse, and stormwater management systems to reduce demand and improve water quality.

Urban Agriculture

As concerns about food security and access to healthy food continue to grow, landscape architects will increasingly be called upon to design landscapes that can support urban agriculture. This will involve creating rooftop gardens, community gardens, and other urban agriculture projects that can help provide fresh produce to urban communities.

Regenerative Design

Regenerative design is an approach to design that seeks to create spaces that sustain themselves and contribute to the health and vitality of their surrounding ecosystems. In the future, landscape architects will increasingly embrace regenerative design principles, designing landscapes that can help restore degraded ecosystems and reverse the impacts of climate change.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Landscape architecture is an inherently multidisciplinary field, and in the future, landscape architects will increasingly work with a range of other professionals, including ecologists, engineers, urban planners, and community organizers. This will involve collaborating on large-scale projects requiring a broad range of expertise and engaging with local communities to ensure that designs reflect their needs and aspirations.

In conclusion, the future of landscape architecture is likely to be shaped by a range of trends and innovations, from sustainable design and resilience planning to integrating technology and promoting health and well-being. Landscape architects will increasingly be called upon to address the complex challenges facing our communities and planet, designing landscapes that can help mitigate the impacts of climate change, promote social justice and equity, and restore degraded ecosystems. By embracing these emerging trends and working collaboratively with other professionals and communities, our landscape architects can help create a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future for us all.

We hope you’ll contact us here if you ever need a landscape architect to help you with a new and exciting project. You can also check out some of our previous landscape architecture projects here.

What are landscape architects and what do they do?

One of the services we offer at McNeil Engineering is Landscape architecture, not to be confused with landscaping. Landscape architecture is a multi-disciplinary field that involves the design and planning of outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, plazas, and other green spaces. Our landscape architects here at McNeil Engineering work hard to create functional, attractive, and sustainable environments that work with the surrounding landscape and provide benefits to the people who use them.

Our landscape architects integrate various design elements, such as plants, trees, hardscaping, water features, and structures, into all our projects. They must consider factors such as site analysis, climate, topography, hydrology, and other environmental factors, as well as the needs and desires of our clients, to create the best possible design solution for each individual project.

The Process of Landscape Architecture

The process of landscape architecture typically involves several steps, including site analysis, conceptual design, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and construction administration.

Site Analysis: The first step in the landscape architecture process is to conduct a thorough site analysis to understand the existing conditions of the site, including its physical characteristics, environmental conditions, and existing structures and landscapes. This information is used to inform the design process and to determine the best solutions for the site.

Conceptual Design: During the conceptual design stage, landscape architects brainstorm and create rough sketches and diagrams to explore different design ideas and concepts. This is where the landscape architect begins to consider the various design elements that will be incorporated into the final design, such as plants, trees, hardscaping, water features, and structures.

Schematic Design: In the schematic design stage, they begin to refine the design concept, creating more detailed drawings and plans that include the placement of different elements and how they will interact with each other.

Design Development: In the design development stage, the landscape architect further refines the design, adding more detail and making any necessary adjustments based on feedback from clients and other stakeholders. This stage is also when the landscape architect begins to consider the construction techniques and materials that will be used to implement the design.

Construction Documents: Once the design is finalized, the landscape architect creates detailed construction documents, including drawings, specifications, and cost estimates, that outline the construction process and materials required to build the design.

Construction Administration: The final stage of the process is construction administration, where the landscape architect works with contractors and other construction professionals to ensure that the design is being built according to the construction documents and that the end result meets the client’s needs and expectations.

Skills and Qualifications of a Landscape Architect

Landscape architects must have a range of skills and qualifications, including:

A strong understanding of design principles and techniques, including the use of color, texture, form, and scale.
Knowledge of horticulture, plant science, and environmental systems, including the ability to select appropriate plants for different climates and conditions.
Strong communication skills, both verbal and visual, to present ideas and designs to clients and stakeholders and to work effectively with contractors and other construction professionals.
Technical skills, including proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and other design tools.
Project management skills to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the client’s satisfaction.
A strong sense of creativity and problem-solving skills to develop innovative design solutions that meet the needs and desires of clients while also considering environmental and practical constraints.

Project Types in Landscape Architecture

Landscape architecture is a diverse field with many different project types, including:

Urban Planning: Landscape architects may also work in urban planning, helping to create livable and sustainable communities. This can involve working on large-scale projects, such as urban renewal initiatives or the development of new communities, as well as smaller projects, such as the design of park spaces and public squares.
Landscape Restoration: Another area of specialization within landscape architecture is landscape restoration, which involves the rehabilitation and rejuvenation of degraded or damaged landscapes. This can involve the restoration of natural habitats, such as wetlands or prairies, or revitalizing urban parks and green spaces.
Research and Education: Landscape architects may also work in research and education, helping to advance the field through the development of new techniques and technologies. This can involve working for universities, research institutions, or government agencies.
Historic Preservation: Landscape architects may also specialize in historic preservation, working to restore and preserve landscapes, gardens, and parks that are of historical significance. This may involve working on projects to restore historic gardens, parks, and other green spaces, as well as the design of new landscapes that are in keeping with the historical character of the site.

Landscape architecture is a multi-disciplinary field that combines creativity, technical skills, and environmental knowledge to create beautiful, functional, and sustainable outdoor spaces. Whether working on urban planning initiatives, restoring degraded landscapes, or designing new parks and gardens, landscape architects play a vital role in creating the outdoor spaces that define our communities and enrich our lives.

We hope that this has helped your understanding of landscape architects and if you need one for a project, you’ll contact us here. You can also check out some of our prior landscape architecture projects here.

What does the global 2023 construction outlook reveal?

It’s no secret that 2022 has been a complicated year. The construction sector has seen some serious highs and lows as the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic linger. Add in soaring inflation, big infrastructure spending, and a hot job market and it truly is a confusing environment for civil engineering firms in Utah. The question now is, what will 2023 bring? Let’s take a moment in today’s blog post to find the answer.

The United States 2023 Construction Outlook

The United States benefits from big infrastructure projects and an economy that’s still humming. Analysts are seeing an easing in inflation and lead times for certain building materials. Still, pricing remains stubbornly high. Optimistic projections point to a mild and short recession, mainly because of high employment and a dropping consumer price index (CPI) reading.

Here is how construction spending in six sectors is going to look. Expect manufacturing, highways, transportation, multifamily housing, lodging, and communications to expand by at least 5% next year. Another four other sectors, which include healthcare, public safety, education, and commercial, are expected to grow by zero to 4%. And there will be a slight decline in construction spending for single-family housing, power, improvements, and office buildings.

Finally, let’s take a local look. Utah added some 50,600 new jobs over the past 12 months, a 3.1% increase, with the numbers in fast-growing Washington County and the rest of southwestern Utah closer to 4%, according to a new report from the state Department of Workforce Services. And what was the fastest-growing sector in Utah over the past year? Construction, which added 15,100 new jobs. Utah continues to be one of the best-performing economies in the United States.

The European Union’s 2023 Construction Outlook

Meanwhile, across the pond, analysts are a lot more pessimistic about the European construction outlook. According to one reading from a European construction research group Construction output growth across Europe will drop to 0.2% in 2023 and drop even further to flat in 2024, with the reason being the ongoing war in Ukraine. But Europe is also grappling with rising interest rates, inflation, and material shortages.

Many analysts expect this to be a rough period of adjustment for the construction sector. Why? Because nearly all factors that affect construction demand are trending negatively in the Eurozone. These include the economy, consumer prices, interest rates, and consumer confidence. Specifically in Europe, demand for civil engineering has been lifted by big public and private investments in low-carbon energy and transport schemes. Still, the prospects for residential output drag down the overall outlook for the sector. And unlike the United States, Europe is not rolling out huge infrastructure investments across the board to its member countries.

It was only as recently as early summer that many were expecting a 2.2% growth in GDP in the Eurozone, even taking the war in Ukraine into account. Those estimates have been revised down to as little as 0.5%. Fortunately, the civil engineering outlook in Europe looks positive as many countries invest in low-carbon energy and renovate existing infrastructure, albeit with projects small in scope than those in the United States.

The U.K.’s 2023 Construction Outlook

The United Kingdom relies on seasonal construction forecasts released by the Construction Products Association (CPA). So, what does this upcoming forecast say about the state of construction in the U.K.? Well, according to the Autumn Construction Forecast, construction output is forecast to fall by 3.9% in 2023. Contrast that with 2022, when construction activity rose by 2%, and you’ve got a pretty wild swing. Currently, construction activity is at above-normal levels as activity continues at a high level.

It is also important to consider that the huge decline in activity for fall 2023 is a sharp downward revision from -0.4% in even the worst scenario included in the U.K.’s CPA Summer Construction Forecast. Why? Mainly due to the impact of a wider economic recession, exacerbated by the effect of the ‘Mini Budget,’ and the consequent fallout from recent political uncertainty. With the U.K. having set a record for the shortest term for a prime minister in recorded history, lots of important projects have been either shelved or delayed.

The fact is there is still much uncertainty around the United Kingdom’s economy. There are still many factors that will adversely affect the construction forecast within the country. These factors include falls in real wages and potential further rises in interest rates, which will likely lead to further falls in consumer spending decisions.

On top of these issues, the wider uncertainty around the UK economy means that demand for private housing new build and private housing repair, maintenance, and improvement, is expected to fall. But what about commercial builds? Other key construction sectors such as commercial and infrastructure are also expected to be adversely impacted by valid worries about construction cost inflation. Rising prices are sure to negatively impact and possibly directly hinder project viability.

So, with that update on the U.S. and European construction outlook, 2023 appears to be a year of contraction, although more in some places than others. Here at McNeil Engineering, we are ready to serve our clients with top-level civil engineering services on construction projects in Utah and beyond. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

A wide range of engineering services

Here at McNeil Engineering, we provide comprehensive design services that include civil engineering, structural engineering, land surveying, high-definition scanning (HDS), landscape architecture and consulting services to the private and public sectors. We also offer consulting services for cities, urban designers, urban planners, and others in the Utah construction market. With so much on offer, we figured now would be a good time to go into greater detail regarding our services and what they entail.

Civil Engineering in Utah and other states

Let’s start with the core of what we do. We are civil engineers first and foremost. But what exactly is it that civil engineers do? Well, in short, civil engineers work closely with others in the construction industry, from architects to contractors, to ensure construction projects progress as they should. Many of their tasks include site surveying ground condition tests, inventory, and materials and equipment maintenance and support. Civil engineers are also responsible for coming up with solutions that take the weather and other geologic factors into account.

Structural Engineering for Long-Lasting Projects

Structural engineering of the type we do fits specifically into the wheelhouse of civil engineering. Structural engineering in this context focuses mainly on the framework of a structure. Engineers design the structures to ensure they can withstand whatever stresses or pressures they may encounter in their environment. The key for structural engineers on projects like ours is to ensure that the buildings and structures we work on remain safe, reliable, and secure at all times.

Land Surveying Where You Need It

Another big part of what we do is land surveying. It’s a critical part of any construction project. There are different types of land surveying, but civil engineers utilize this technique in specific ways. Surveying in civil engineering represents the collection and analysis of specific data regarding the land under survey. Specific measurements of the horizontal and vertical lengths between points will also be recorded. Details will be documented regarding specific aspects of the land, such as size, shape, formation, and soil. Quality and accurate land surveys can set the foundation for a successful project.

Landscape Architecture for Beautiful Grounds

Another important aspect of what we do includes landscape architecture. Put simply, landscape architecture is described as designing specific outdoor spaces that integrate well within an overall project. In our case, we design large landscape architecture projects, such as those for green spaces, a town square, municipal playground, and so much more. Keep in mind there are significant differences between landscape architecture and landscape design. Landscape architects have a degree and they generally work on larger public works projects, whereas a landscape designer often works on residential and smaller-scale projects. Landscape architects are experts in their field.

Consultation Services for Companies Who Need an Expert

We also provide a wide range of consulting services to companies that require a committed and knowledgeable professional to help them with their engineering needs. These are often companies that do not have the in-house expertise they need to get the job done successfully. Our consulting civil engineers advise our clients on the design, development, and construction of projects of all shapes and sizes. We pride ourselves on offering consulting services that ensure safe, efficient, and fully resourced project completion. When you need a consultant you can count on McNeil Engineering.

Other Services We Offer

Now that you’ve learned more about the human aspect of our resources, take a few minutes to learn about some of the other services we offer. We provide a wide range of engineering, surveying, and consulting services. But these services would not be nearly as effective were not for our technologies. We use the latest technologies suitable for engineering projects.

One such example is laser scanning. 3D laser scanning has become an industry norm. Advancements in hardware, software, and workflows have made laser scanning a viable option for projects of all sizes. Laser scanning allows our surveyors to collect tremendous amounts of precise data at high speeds. We use the most advanced, high-definition laser scanners, total stations, and modeling and point cloud software to provide comprehensive, record surveys, 3D CAD models and detailed 2D isometric drawings.

We also have extensive expertise in BIM 3D modeling. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is essentially a technological solution that allows engineers to view a digital representation of a building as well as specific characteristics of its functionality. BIM is a model-based process that provides insight to help you plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure.

And guess what? That’s not all. If you need consulting services for roofing, paving, and even construction administration, we have the people and experience you need to ensure the job gets done right the first time, every time. We invite you to take a moment to peruse the various projects we have completed in Utah and around the country. Let’s work together!

What is the difference between urban planning and urban design?

Here at McNeil Engineering, we are proud of all of our projects that focus on urban planning and design. We often work with state municipalities on projects and developers working on designs that must be approved by cities or counties. We create concepts involving pedestrian, car, and public transportation needs. These mockups and designs are created to help get things approved quickly by a city. That’s what we’re good at.

A Closer Look at the Differences Between Urban Planning and Design

Still, there are big differences between urban planning and urban design. It is important for companies like us to understand these differences. This is how we deliver excellent service to our engineering clients. Let’s first examine the basic definitions.

Urban Design: The design and creation of certain city features, from green spaces to infrastructure, public transportation, landscape architecture, and community-use facilities.
Urban Planning: The planning of a city or municipality and the use of its structures, as well as policies, procedures, zoning, neighborhood planning, infrastructure, and overall standards and building codes.

Urban design is used to focus solely on designing individual city features. This could be a transportation system, city park, or wastewater treatment facility. Urban design is for those who want to do creative work. People who want to work on quality of life, population resilience, and sustainability will find a rewarding career as urban designers. Today’s urban planners often work within neighborhoods to create designs that benefit and inspire the community

Urban planners are more strategists. They need to evaluate factors that may not necessarily be in their control. From the technical endpoint to political considerations, urban planners need to have a real “big picture” view of what a neighborhood needs. One area where both urban designers and urban planners overlap is in the area of sustainability, long term resilience, and individual quality of life for residential and commercial land tenants

Core Skills Required for Urban Designers and Planners in Salt Lake City

Core skills necessary to work as an urban planner or designer are similar but also have distinct differences. Both designers and planners work on projects with similar outcomes, but their roles are quite different. Urban planners require great communication and negotiation skills. Urban designers need to have strong technical skills, but they also must be good communicators so that they can fully understand the end user’s experience.

Urban planners are generally passionate about the cities they live in. In general, planners will have a high degree of passion for what works and what doesn’t in their city. Urban planners have a good idea of what needs to be improved and what doesn’t. This could pertain to everything from green spaces to bike paths or affordable housing. But the passion displayed by urban planers goes beyond the urban landscape they reside in. Just like other residents of their town or city, they want to share in the growth and well-being of their neighborhood and enjoy utilizing their skills to meet that end.

Urban planners also generally have a strong sense of connectedness. They share a strong sense of collective values with those they live and work around. But even more, they take a look at the broader community as a whole. Urban planners generally want to live in a society that offers sustainable development, plenty of public transport options, and a stable housing market for buyers and sellers.

Urban designers, by contrast, are more technical in nature. You will find designers to be an interesting mix of individuals who are both people-centric and technologically-inclined. Excellent urban designers are very good at meeting the technical outcomes and requirements in a plans, while also also responding to the shifting needs of the contractors and neighborhood-dwellers.

Which Career is Right for You?

If you love improving society and making a positive impact on individual lives, then urban planning is for you. Urban planners also require skills obtained in many other professions, from teachers to project managers and environmental scientists. Urban planners are great communicators, effectively use evidence to support their arguments, are self-reflective and have great analytical skills.

Conversely, if you are passionate about upgrading the user experience and building on your technical skills, urban design is or you. Urban designers are very good at thinking organically and utilizing architectural and environmental design skills. They are driven by a strong set of core values, can imagine and visualize a plan, and are adept at translating abstract data into a vision.

Here at McNeil Engineering, we work with urban planners and designers day-in and day-out to ensure their jobs are completed quickly and by the numbers. Want to learn more about job opportunities here at McNeil? Simply follow this link, and thanks for reading!

A Primer on Landscaping vs Landscape Architecture

Landscape Architecture At McNeil Engineering, we offer a wide array of helpful services for many unique products. Because of this fact, sometimes it can be a little bit difficult to explain what we do and what services we can offer! We employ engineers of all kinds including civil engineers, structural engineers, and landscape engineers. We work on surveying projects whether that be land surveying or surveying buildings. Additionally, we can serve as an excellent resource to construction projects at any point, and we also can be a resource to any project on a building or area of land that already exists but might need a little bit of sprucing up!

Today, we’d like to talk about landscape architecture, which is one of the many amazing services we offer. “Landscape Architecture” is not a term that is as commonly used as just “landscaping,” so, sometimes people can get confused and think that they are the same thing! Landscaping and landscape architecture are vastly different services. In this post, we’ll walk you through 3 of the key differences between the two, and why we provide landscape architecture.

One of the first key differences between traditional landscaping or landscape design and landscape architecture is, most obviously, the size of the area or project and the different considerations that go into the project. For example, a project that involves a large group of buildings that are connected by streets would require a landscape architect, while just a yard or driveway would be a project for a landscape designer.

Landscape architects are trained to think of many different factors about a project at once, one of those of course being how to make areas look their best and be inviting, but also the weather of the area, how much traffic the area gets, whether that be car traffic, bike traffic or foot traffic. Landscape architects must think of the factors of each structure involved and how to use their resources to bring them together aesthetically. Landscape architects must also think about how the area that they are working on connects to the surrounding area. A landscape designer is given a small area of land and given the task to design the flora in that area to be attractive and inviting, or useful if their client wants!

That brings us to our second key difference, which is the type of clients each normally services. There aren’t many residential projects one might need a landscape architect for, because usually most of those aforementioned factors are not points of concern for privately owned land. The types of clients that usually benefit most from landscape architects are businesses, organizations, governmental systems or cities themselves, property owners of multi-residence buildings (like apartments or dorms) and schools.

There are others, but this list will help to explain one of the most important differences between landscape design and landscape architecture. We are a landscape architecture company, so those are the types of clients who would benefit the most from our help! For example, one of our long-term clients is Weber State University. We were hired by Weber state to rework their landscape architecture and irrigation system to help pull all the buildings on campus together and make a comfortable and welcoming environment to potential students, and we re-worked the irrigation system so that the school could focus more on the students and worry less about the landscape!

The final and arguably the main difference between landscape design and landscape architecture, aside from size and magnitude of projects, is about the purpose of the end goal. Often landscape design is focused on aesthetics only. How can we take an area and make it as beautiful as possible, which is a wonderful thing! However, landscape architects must focus on how to make their area as beautiful as possible, while also making it as useful as possible! Landscape architects, since they usually work on commercial projects have to think about the type of people who will benefit from their project, what types of people they might be, and design according to the majority’s needs, which can be very difficult but VERY rewarding. Every corner of a landscape architecture project must be optimized for success and usefulness.

Landscape design is a wonderful thing, and it can be incredibly important to making residential homes look and feel their best, however we thought that it was important to clear up that landscaping and landscape architecture are NOT the same thing! At McNeil, we hire incredible landscape architects who are ready to take on these large-scale projects with a smile. If you or someone you know is involved in a project that you think might benefit from these services, consider McNeil Engineering. If you’d like to learn more about landscape architecture, or you’d like to read about more of our landscape architecture projects, visit our website!

Landscape Architecture Projects | McNeil Engineering Salt Lake City, UT

Kimball Plaza parking lot replacement

Kimball Plaza parking lot replacement While we are best known regionally for patented architectural engineering consultation services – which we have put to good use on thousands of projects around the American west regional area – we also have an arsenal of other consultation expertise beyond just architectural engineering too.

Take, for example, our consultation expertise when it comes to the tricky business of parking lot replacement. This particular sort of property redevelopment can be extra difficult to navigate for the stakeholders in institutions, businesses, municipalities, and any other sorts of organizations who have tenants in buildings utilizing said parking lot. It is vital for such entities to maintain civil relationships with their tenants, while also adhering to tight parking lot replacement/property redevelopment budgets.

This is exactly the sort of instance that occurred in Utah, during our consultation on the Kimball Plaza parking lot replacement.

The nuts and bolts of parking lot replacement

When it came to the Kimball Plaza parking lot replacement/property redevelopment project, we immediately understood the owners were dealing with a very tight budget for said project, along with disgruntled tenants.

The first challenge we faced on this project’s consultation was to get the property redevelopment drawings, sketches, and blueprints approved by the local city. The client’s goal was to increase parking for their development, which would improve circulation in and around the whole property altogether. The only hurdle was – the local city/county would require upgrading the existing storm drainage system if the project changed any of the hardscape square footage.

With these factors in mind, we here at McNeil Engineering were able to completely redesign the parking lot layout in such a way we were able to maintain the existing hardscape to landscape ratio, while simultaneously adding six parking stalls. Additionally, we simplified the circulation for patrons of local businesses. Seeing sense, the local county approved this plan, and we saved the client the expense of both a new treatment system and collection boxes.

Parking lot replacement on a budget

The design for this Kimball Plaza parking lot replacement/property redevelopment project called for the removal and replacement of both asphalt and base. We here at McNeil Engineering performed a study of the existing base course, determining it was in good enough condition we could leave it in place – simply removing the existing asphalt, demolishing some existing landscape islands, and installing new islands and asphalt paving without having to remove any existing base. Indeed, we only brought in asphalt as needed to meet the modified grading requirements.

When the project’s initial bid was suddenly canceled, we helped guide the client into finding a reputable contractor to perform a modified scope of this parking lot replacement/property redevelopment project. We worked very closely with the said reputable contractor in order to accomplish every single one of the client’s goals- while staying within budget, fulfilling the tenants’ desires, and not breaking any local county zoning laws.

The client was beyond ecstatic we here at McNeil Engineering, along with the reputable contractor were able to help keep their parking lot replacement/property redevelopment project within their tight budget while also helping them to maintain a positive relationship with their tenants at Kimball Plaza in Utah.

In need of a new parking lot?

Are you the stakeholder in an organization, business, and/or institution currently searching to replace your property’s parking lot? Perhaps you’re just looking to redevelop the said property in some other dynamic, business savvy, budget-friendly way? Well, you don’t need to look any further – you’ve come to the perfect place! We here at McNeil Engineering are more than capable of providing you with such sterling parking lot replacement/property redevelopment consultations and recommendations. We can aid you in your goal of completing your desired results in the cheapest, most elegant, and most ecologically sustainable manner humanly possible. Allow yourself to finally relax in the comfort of knowing your architectural engineering/property redevelopment needs are more than taken care of.

Existing condition reports and recommendations

Landscape Architecture While we’re best known regionally for our patented architectural engineering consultation services, this is far from the only service we offer at McNeil Engineering. We also provide existing condition reports and recommendations for businesses’ and organizations’ properties.

Every year, McNeil Engineering’s clients – both our newer clients and our existing clients – commission our office to help them when it comes to assessing their existing facilities – such as parking lots.

This could be because they need help when it comes to developing a maintenance budget for their stakeholders for the coming year, or because an existing owner is looking to sell the property. This would mean they are required to provide a due diligence report to their prospective buyer(s).

The nuts and bolts of existing condition reports and recommendations

For the past 30 years, we have been providing existing facilities reports of all types.

A common existing condition reports and recommendations project will involve one of our representatives meeting with the owner and/or on-site maintenance personnel for a property. This is in order for us to be able to get better handling of what they know of the history of their specific property – along with any peculiarities/special treatments necessary for the continued maintenance of the said property.

Following this historical sleuthing, we will then perform an extensive visual inspection of any roofs on the property, parking lots, or other designated areas of concern. This is in order for us to gain our own impressions of the existing conditions of each property. Further investigation may become warranted, in which case, our office has maintained positive relationships with local testing agencies, who are able to provide destructive testing and laboratory investigations.

How we provide such reports and recommendations

Once all pertinent data has been gathered, we would be able to evaluate the existing conditions and offer property stakeholders professional opinions of causes for any deficiencies. We would then offer recommendations for repairing any issues we encountered during our investigation of the property.

Following on from these opinions and recommendations, we would either complete our property reports with rough estimates for probable costs of the repairs or file a report on any further maintenance on the property we may recommend.

Next, our clients make certain development, redevelopment, or sale decisions based on future property maintenance needs or lack thereof. Following the completion of said decisions, our clients will then take whichever actions they feel may be in their best interests.

We here at McNeil engineering aren’t contractors, so our examinations consider what we believe are the actual problems on a property – and solutions to those problems – as opposed to a contractor, who may conveniently argue their contracting firm’s specialization is the solution to any problems discovered during a property assessment.

Looking for existing condition reports and recommendations?

If you are the stakeholder in a business, organization, and/or institution currently looking high and low for a firm to provide you with existing condition reports and recommendations for your business, organization, and/or institutions’ property – you’ve come to the right place!

We here at McNeil Engineering are more than capable of providing you with such sterling existing condition reports and recommendations. You and your organization/institution/business will be more than prepared for whatever sorts of development and/or redevelopment projects you may have planned for such properties down the road.

When the time does eventually arrive for redevelopment and/or development projects to occur on your property, please also consider the additional assistance from our regional experts in landscape architecture. If we’ve already drawn up the existing condition reports and recommendations for your property and your potential redevelopment and development projects on the said property, it’s a no-brainer to continue using McNeil Engineering as a trusted expert resource. We will help you complete your desired results in the cheapest, most elegant, and most ecologically sustainable manner humanly possible. Allow yourself to finally relax in the comfort of knowing your architectural engineering needs are more than taken care of.

Landscape architecture and drought tolerance

Landscape architecture maintenance for institutional and commercial property needs to become a priority for any institution or business. Particularly within the Utah of today, where water preservation is key to preserving an aesthetically beautiful – and environmentally sustainable – locale. Let McNeil Engineering be your architectural landscaping guide when it comes to drought tolerance and water preservation on your business/institution’s properties.

McNeil Engineering: Prime LDS Church Landscape Remodel Consultants

For institutions and businesses serious about such concerns of structural engineering and integrity – they need look no further than McNeil Engineering. Indeed, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, which needs no introduction in the local area, relies on McNeil Engineering as the prime consultant on remodel and new church projects throughout the Western United States.

During McNeil Engineering’s time as the prime architectural landscaping consultant firm for the Church, their contemporary – and indeed drought tolerant designs, which we will get to momentarily – have garnered awards from both the Southern Nevada Water Authority and the Henderson City Public Works Department. Atop these shining accolades, McNeil Engineering has also been highly recommended by the Church’s own Physical Facilities Department. Currently, McNeil Engineering works closely among several Facility Management and Project Management Groups to tackle a diverse range of landscaping, civil engineering, and site remodel projects.

The Perks of Drought Tolerant Designs

While in the past, water conservation may not have been a top priority for institutions and/or commercial entities seeking sturdy landscape architectural experts, water can no longer be taken for granted, particularly within the southwest region of the United States. This is why it has become vital to seek out the consultation of firms like McNeil Engineering, which have knowledge and expertise in the realms of water preservation and drought maintenance.

No wonder the LDS Church, the top property owner in the state, has commissioned McNeil Engineering for such an important role. Indeed, McNeil continues to work closely with the Church’s Landscape Architectural Division at Church Headquarters, in order to provide leadership and direction pertaining to innovative site management and water conservation solutions. All these systems, plans, and forethought will be a great boon to Facility Managers with various landscape needs – not just when it comes to water preservation – but when it comes to concerns such as cost reduction and preserving site integrity. McNeil Engineering doesn’t just know about drought reduction processes – but also about structural engineering solutions, too.

Updating Irrigation Systems

McNeil Engineering has consulted on LDS property management projects for many years now. These property management projects have involved on-site accessibility issues, the resolution of problematic drainage areas, the renovation of outdated irrigation systems, and converting water-loving landscapes to a more water-wise xeric design.

These vital remodels, repairs, and drought preparation procedures are all a vital part of water preservation on these properties around the western region of the United States. Without them, these properties would be headed for a world of hot water – or no water, more accurately!

As part of this Church consultation process, McNeil Engineering has also developed annual R&I budgets, generated bidding packages, and detailed cost estimates. This is in order for the Church, both institutionally and commercially, to know exactly what they are getting into. And out of!

Along with all these civil engineering services, McNeil Engineering also provided construction administration, which involved the inclusion of pre-bid meetings addendums, bid opening, and site inspections, all of which were provided throughout construction and maintenance. All in all, the future of the Church’s architectural landscaping is in good hands.

Institutional and Commercial Architectural Water Conservation

Are you a member of an institution or commercial entity, such as a business, locally within Utah, interested in commissioning the services of architectural landscaping experts?

If you happen to be searching for the highest of high-end structural engineering firms in this state, you don’t need to look any further than McNeil Engineering. As we noted above, McNeil Engineering doesn’t simply take care of your standard landscape architecture needs, either. As a firm, we understand that site integrity – things like structural engineering – is just as vital to creating and maintaining the desired aesthetic and feel for your property – as choosing what color fauna you’d like lining your entranceway.

Perhaps most intrinsically, however, is the question of water preservation and drought survivability. Even such a large and powerful entity as the Church is focusing on this growing problem in Utah. You and your institution or business need to also keep these concerns in mind as well. McNeil Engineering can help you do so. Just contact us to ensure your institution’s/business’s landscape architectural needs are not only met – but exceeded!

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