Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Landscape Architecture

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Landscape Architecture 1. Hardscape vs. Softscape The terms 'hardscape' and 'softscape' are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Hardscape refers to the non-living, man-made elements like pathways, walls, and structures. On the other hand, softscape includes the living elements such as plants, trees, and soil. Remember, hardscape is about the solid, while softscape is about the natural. 2. Sustainability vs. Resilience While both sustainability and resilience are important concepts in landscape architecture, they differ in focus. Sustainability is about minimizing environmental impact and resource use, ensuring long-term viability. Resilience, on the other hand, is about the ability to bounce back from disturbances, like natural disasters. Think of sustainability as long-term planning and resilience as preparedness for the unexpected. 3. Site Analysis vs. Site Assessment Site analysis and site assessment are often used interchangeably, but they have different scopes. Site analysis involves studying the physical, environmental, and social aspects of a site. It's about understanding the context. Site assessment, on the other hand, is more specific, focusing on evaluating the site's suitability for a particular project.