Insight
World Landscape Architecture Month: Ioana Nica, Associate for Landscape Architecture
19 Apr 2022
What made you want to pursue a career in Landscape Architecture?
My initial passion was architecture, however, I soon realised I wanted to focus on the in-between spaces. My degree in Landscape Architecture, which I studied in the Netherlands, opened my eyes to a new ‘man-made’ world.
It was a gradual relationship with landscape that expanded over the years whilst working across several countries, and it continues to develop; it would be quite difficult to picture myself in a different field now.
This year’s theme for World Landscape Architecture Month is ‘Growing Together’. What does this theme mean to you?
I am a firm believer of inclusive design. Reinforced by the last years of living & working in a pandemic, there is a growing demand for spaces to be flexible, to adapt to users’ evolving needs. Achieving that balance of adaptive spaces that can cater for all ages and abilities, that is the challenge that we should all strive to achieve as designers.
How do you keep well-informed of advancements in your field?
I subscribe to the usual RIBA, Dezeen and Landezine forums. Living in London, I’m lucky to enjoy the amazing new public spaces that are constantly being added to the city.
What would your dream project consist of?
One that runs smoothly! In all seriousness, what makes a project is often the client, one that thrives for good quality public realm, supported by diligent project managers that are as equally invested. As a landscape architect, I think we can make visible improvements on the smallest jobs, from small scale special needs schools to masterplanning.
What current trends in Landscape Architecture excite you?
Perhaps I’m a bit old-fashioned, but I believe less in trends. A bit like fashion, quality never goes out of style. High quality public realm, where materials and delivery are key, and with sustainability high on the agenda – these are all essential when designing spaces.
What advice would you give to aspiring landscape architects starting off in their career?
For those starting their studies, I would start by considering which university to choose, as that’s vital in setting out a foundation of knowledge to build upon. For the graduates, my advice would be to try to work in a multi-disciplinary environment like PE, where you can learn and collaborate with others. Last but not least, be inquisitive! Don’t be afraid to ask questions, challenge ideas and reflect.
You recently joined Pick Everard, what was that it that attracted you to the firm?
In an industry that is still very much male top-heavy, it is refreshing to see a female-led Landscape Department, and the remarkable achievement behind it, of being able to grow a national team in the last three and a half years, and successfully deliver high calibre projects, with more exciting projects on the way. Having presented at Women in Construction last year, I believe that it is very important to continue to promote women in landscape, design, and construction, as equal custodians of the built environment.
Having joined us as an Associate, how is Pick Everard enabling you to develop your career?
Through this job, I have the opportunity to grow a London based team, that should be of similar size to the Leicester team by 2024. That is very challenging and exciting at the same time. We are recruiting for a number of vacancies from graduate to senior level across a number of our offices so if you’re interested in joining our team, check out the vacancies section on our website!