A landscape architect is a Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI) - a regulated professional who designs and manages outdoor spaces at every scale, from private gardens to public parks, urban squares and national park visitor facilities. In the UK, landscape architects are routinely required by planning conditions on larger residential and commercial developments, and produce landscape schemes, Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIAs) and management plans that local planning authorities need before granting consent.
What they do
- Design landscape schemes required by planning conditions
- Produce masterplans for residential and commercial developments
- Carry out Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIAs)
- Prepare landscape management and maintenance plans
- Design public realm, urban spaces and streetscapes
- Advise on biodiversity net gain and ecological enhancement
- Manage landscape works on site during construction
- Restore historic and registered parks and gardens
When you need one
A landscape architect is typically required when planning conditions, the scale of a development or the sensitivity of a site demands a professionally qualified landscape designer.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Residential garden masterplan | £800 - £3,000 |
| Landscape scheme for planning application | £1,500 - £6,000+ |
| LVIA (landscape and visual impact assessment) | £2,000 - £8,000+ |
| Public realm design | £3,000 - £20,000+ |
| Landscape management plan | £800 - £2,500 |
| Hourly rate | £65 - £120 / hr |
Costs vary significantly by project scale and complexity. Planning-related LVIAs and EIA chapters at the higher end. Always confirm whether the fee includes attendance at pre-application meetings with the local planning authority.
Qualifications to look for
The primary qualification for landscape architects in the UK. Requires a Landscape Institute-accredited degree, structured work experience and a professional review. CMLI holders are required by most local planning authorities for planning condition landscape schemes. Search at landscapeinstitute.org.
A senior grade of Landscape Institute membership awarded for outstanding contribution to the profession. Indicates a highly experienced practitioner.
How to find a reputable landscape architect
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a landscape architect and a garden designer?
A landscape architect is a chartered professional with statutory recognition - CMLI registration via the Landscape Institute - and works across all scales from private gardens to public parks. A garden designer typically focuses on residential gardens. For planning purposes, and for larger or more complex schemes, a landscape architect is usually required by the local planning authority.
When does a planning application need a landscape scheme?
Most applications for 10 or more dwellings and many smaller applications in sensitive areas require an approved landscape scheme as a planning condition - produced by a landscape architect and often tied to biodiversity net gain requirements under the Environment Act 2021.
What is a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment?
An LVIA assesses the effect of a development proposal on landscape character and visual amenity. It is required for large or prominent developments, particularly those in sensitive landscapes such as AONBs and National Parks, and forms part of the Environmental Impact Assessment where one is needed.