World Landscape Architecture Month: Kate O'Brien, Landscape Architect

What inspired you to get into the profession?

I am passionate about creating inspiring places which cohesively benefit both people and nature, are functional for all, yet exciting and stimulating. I love the fact that my designs have the power to benefit people and make their day-to-day lives better.

The theme for World Landscape Architecture Month is ‘Growing Together’. What does this theme mean to you?

To me, ‘Growing Together’ describes the relationships we have throughout the design process. As a multi-disciplinary professional, with experience in both ArchitectuWhat are you striving for in your career as a Landscape Architect?re and Landscape Architecture, I believe that the cohesion of disciplines is key to developing a successful design. The interdisciplinary ethos at Pick Everard is so important, as everyone benefits from working closely together and mutually learning from one another. The differing viewpoints ensure we develop well-balanced inclusive designs.

What have your early career experiences been at Pick Everard?

Pick Everard have given me a superb start to my career. I have had a broad experience with different sectors and sizes of projects, and my colleagues always encourage me to develop my confidence and expertise by taking on more responsibility. They have supported me fully on my ‘Pathway to Chartership’ so far, where I am on the way to becoming a Chartered Landscape Architect.

What projects have you worked on that inspired you?

I’m inspired by projects that challenge me to develop my skills. ‘CCOS South’ a new public realm project in St Albans has a real civic ethos, being at the heart of the community with an existing Quaker Garden & burial ground incorporated into it. It is due to start on site soon which is exciting and challenging, developing the detail of drawings to construction level and coordinating with other disciplines. I am excited to see this project come alive!

What are you striving for in your career as a Landscape Architect?

My next big goal is to become a Chartered Landscape Architect, a well-rounded and proficient professional. I hope to gain experience from projects which are fulfilling, socially impactful and connected with communities. Another goal in my career is to strengthen connections between Architecture and Landscape Architecture; using my inter-disciplinary perspective to enable cohesive projects inside-to-out.

What are you looking forward to in the future here?

I am looking forward to taking a lead in more projects, tackling new and challenging situations. I’m sure these experiences will help me become the confident, competent, and responsible multi-disciplinary designer I strive to be.