Landscape elements

Author: (Spanish) Cheval
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-02-01
Features: The title "Landscape Elements" reveals what we aim to explore: not only the material materials used by landscape designers (such as vegetation, paving, water bodies, lighting, etc.), but also the individuals involved in landscape work. At the same time, we will introduce in great detail the construction of improving natural or urban landscapes. Some representative structures have appeared since the beginning of civilization (lighthouses, cemeteries), while others originate from meeting the needs of modern life (viewing poles by the beach, bus stations, pavilions, etc.). This book takes readers on a spectacular journey, yet our intention goes beyond that. We do not wish to compile a catalog of design elements but instead compare places and solutions through a focus on details and small scales. At the same time, this book also more clearly reveals the vitality and scope of landscape beautification compared to other volumes in this series. To some extent, the selected design projects in the book almost outline our ever-growing landscape awareness. Thus, works like the Guatiza Bay in the Canary Islands and the LaTorerera campsite in Andalusia, based on the principle that human intervention should be reversible, pursue the continuity of the site's integrity, thereby clearly demonstrating a new understanding of landscape. This transformation is rooted in considerations of aesthetic effects and the environment, stemming from the attention paid to the rift between humans and their habitats. Browsing this book, we can clearly see that every aspect perceived by humans is inevitably dominated by urban culture. Perhaps, that striking collage formed by the northern viewing platform of Battery Park and Manhattan symbolizes the rift between the city and nature. The impact of this design extends far beyond its natural environment, and its effects should be examined within the panorama of "global ecology." Another design—the Galician lighthouse—presents a grand and incredible scene, conveying feelings of power and tranquility, even expressing a serene connection with the universe, so the existence of this lighthouse seems timeless. The improvements in the quality of these two buildings and their environments come from the various contrasts they generate: geometric and natural forms, bare walls and desolate rocks, sunlight and shadows, stability and movement.