In landscape architecture, research refers to the analysis of the decision making and systematic inquiry that occurs throughout the design process. The ever present tension between science and art defines and challenges landscape architecture.

In landscape architecture, research refers to the analysis of the decision making and systematic inquiry that occurs throughout the design process. The ever present tension between science and art defines and challenges landscape architecture. Landscape Architectural Research offers a framework for employing appropriate research methods in support of a more scientific approach to the discipline. This scientific approach will lead to better design solutions and will further legitimize the work of landscape architects for clients and allied professionals.

M. Elen Deming , DDes, ASLA, RLA, is Professor and Head of Landscape Architecture at the University of Illinois. She is past editor of the award-winning Landscape Journal , as well as current President and Fellow of the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture. She currently serves as on the editorial advisory boards for the European Journal of Landscape Architecture and Landscape Journal . Simon R. Swaffield , PhD, FNZILA, is Professor of Landscape Architecture at Lincoln University in Canterbury, New Zealand. In 2007, he received the Outstanding Research and Communication Award from CELA. He is founding editor of Landscape Review and frequently authors and edits journal articles.