landscape–X–periments

There are several reasons for conducting experiments. To earn new cognitions and learn about contextual interrelations is one of them. Experimentation requires the courage for innovation as well as for failure (which then can instigate new insights). The search for answers opens an experimental ground on which novel approaches can be tested. The lectures at this symposium present experimental approaches to the design, usage and perception of public open spaces - as seen from the landscape architect’s point of view. The experimentation may express itself in the design method, in the planning process or in actionist interventions. All this innovations have been born from the necessity to respond to changing planning conditions with different, theoretically sound practices. The lectures at the conference trace some of the possible experiments and open them up for discussion. The prerequisites for landscape architecture have become more diverse. Money is getting scarce and requirements are increasing. Innovation and creativity are necessary not only to deliver high-grade design, it is also inalienable for the theoretical progression in the field. Experiments search for solutions on diverse levels:

  • Terminology is being reinterpreted. The differentiation between urban and rural landscapes is about to be diminished if not abolished. Landscapes on a larger scale are taken into consideration as the referential frame of landscape architectural design. Arielle Masboungi asked to think the city through the landscape; the new development scheme of Vienna also defines the surrounding landscape as references for Vienna’s further development and designed characteristic. (STEP 2005).
    Frank LOHRBERG is thinking beyond the planning dimension when taking into account the design role of urban agriculture and its target to maintain, develop and create (new) recreational landscapes. Gary DOHERTY deduces city development concepts from the analysis of landscape via his definition of landscape as urbanism.
  • Where traditional approaches do not lead to (built) results or options for development new methods are implemented. MA2, LE BALTO and ARTGINEERING attempt to initiate appropriation of public landscapes stating that this could be the first step to establish new spaces. Events and intervention seek for the reinterpretation of spaces and their usability.
  • Theory and concept are not isolated, they act complementary to practice. Martin PROMINSKI is investigating the definition of landscape and the complexity of landscape phenomena, based on the theory of J.B. Jackson. Performative, speculative and qualitative methods can also function as catalysts for design. Experiments include the option for failure. KARRES en BRANDS do not deny this possibility and describe their design as a learning process. Doing so, mistakes can be corrected along the way. The Complexity of Landscape is thus evolved into a tool-kit, which can be used for landscape experiments.