What is #landarchSD?

We’re looking for landscape architects and designers to comment about the public spaces in San Diego LIVE during the ASLA 2011 Conference. If you’re here in San Diego, tell us what you think of public spaces, designed spaces, parks, and landscapes throughout the city.

Not sure where to start? Here’s two simple ways: first, record your photos and your thoughts on this common Facebook page: Social Media for Landscape Architects. You can post a photo, join in on conversations other people have started, or follow the conversation. Second, if you’re on twitter as your company or personal account, tell us what you think by posting a tweet and using the hashtag #landarchSD. A hashtag is a phrase that lets us link your tweets to a common topic—in this case, landscape architecture in San Diego, which has been abbreviated #landarchSD. If you search the hashtag, you can see who’s talking about it, sharing photos, meeting up, or also just watch the live conversation.

Not sure where to start? Think of it as a small quiz, with questions for you to answer. Check out this website that has question prompts for you to answer, or print out and bring along the flyer below—a “fortune teller” with 8 questions about the type of public space you’re in.  

• Social Elements: Where are you? Who is using the public space? What activities taking place in the space? What notable features are present? Are people interacting with one another? Is seating available? What type is it? Which parts of the public space are being used? Why? How would you characterize the condition of the space?
• Design: Can you discern the designer’s intent? Concept? Theme? Story? Symbolism? Are there any interesting details or use of materials? What is the site’s surrounding context? How does the site relate/respond to it? What do you like best about the public space? Why? Is there anything you would change or add to the site? How does the space make you feel? Does it provoke you in any way? Is it inviting? What differentiates this space from others you have seen?
• Education: What can the space teach the public about landscape architecture? What can this space teach landscape architects?
• Security: Is there a security presence or obvious security features?
• Sustainable Site Features: How is stormwater being managed? Is green stormwater infrastructure being used? How could the Sustainable Site Initiative be applied to the space? How is waste being handled? Is recycling available? Is bike parking available? Is it being used?
• Plant Design: Are there any invasive species present? How would you describe the plant palette used? Are there any notable plants or palette you would like to share? What habitats are present?
• Signage: Are there any educational or interpretive elements on site? If so, are they being used? Are the any wayfinding features present?