Cities and counties now allow mixed-used developments that combine homes, businesses and recreational facilities. Before one of these developments can be built, they have to successfully navigate a comprehensive review process. Landscape Architects in Round Rock play an important role in designing these complex developments. Local governments want to ensure that they will preserve important natural and environmental features. Landscape architects are required to create a map that shows water bodies, wetlands, steep slopes, wildlife habitats and important views and vistas. They then have to show how their proposed plan will protect these features.
Landscape Architects in Round Rock are also responsible for creating the development’s open space and recreation plan. These include passive recreation areas such as parks and active recreations features such as soccer fields. Project designers have to ensure that the various uses are located so that they don’t create conflicts among users. Residents in single-family homes may enjoy a park across the street, but be less enthusiastic about soccer fields and basketball courts. Businesses may want a natural buffer zone between them and the residential areas. This will minimize complaints as people leave restaurants and bars late in the evening.
Large developments create a lot of new drainages and can radically change storm run-off patterns. Local ordinances usually require that the developer not change the amount of water that stays on or leaves their site. This can require that large drainage basins be built to keep the water on the site and let it gradually seep into the ground. Landscape architects can work with the engineers to create natural features such as ponds that provide the same function but look much better.
Both local officials and residents are often concerned about the impact that a large development will have. Therefore many public hearings are held to review the plan. Landscape architects are often part of the team that must attend these hearings and explain it. Not only to they have to have the necessary technical skills and professional licenses, they have to be able to demonstrate clearly why their plan will work.
Baker-Aicklen & Associates Inc. is one of the firms that has the personnel to create these plans and guide it through the development process. It is familiar with Red Rock environment and has a history of working successfully with the public and local officials.
