This field is a combination of urban engineering and architectural engineering that deals with the design and construction of open spaces. Landscape architecture can be related to a building, a park, etc. But the fact is that such a definition probably has some supporters in America. In the definition of landscape architecture in Europe, more emphasis is placed on its human and mental aspects and this field is considered an independent field. For example, Kevin Lynch had this view of landscape architecture in the 1980s (which, of course, is not valid today): Landscape architecture is the same as urban design but at a lower level. Landscape architecture discusses humans and how to relax them; that is, the better our landscape architecture is, the better our landscape will progress in all areas, both culturally and socially.

In most definitions of landscape architecture, and above all, it emphasizes strengthening the connection between humans, nature, and the environment. It is also the art and science of regulating the conditions and creating the basis for understanding beauty and feeling happiness and comfort in natural and man-made environments, especially in a large part of the open spaces of biological communities, relying on some basic sciences and engineering (such as ecology, geology, botany and horticulture, water and civil engineering); therefore, in this field and profession, efforts are made to pay attention to environmental sustainability, ecological processes and beauties, land preparation, legible and attractive display of the effects of the natural environment and important elements such as water and plants in open spaces, at different scales from land planning to micro-spaces. In addition, this field and specialty plays a very important role in managing the exploitation, maintenance, and establishing a balance between the set of natural and artificial factors and elements in biological communities.

According to studies, what has been presented as a definition of landscape architecture or the general framework of its activities during the past century and the early years of the 21st century; on the one hand, it stems from the tacit knowledge and environmental teachings of man to coexist with the natural environment in the history of civilization and the context of life in biological societies. On the other hand, it relies on the views of some experts and specialists who have each addressed the subject of landscape and landscape architecture activities based on their beliefs, cultural values, knowledge, and experiences.

Thus, the current activity of “landscape architecture” continues to rely on and benefit from the traditions and experiences of ancient civilizations in the treatment of the environment and landscape organization, while benefiting from new experiences and knowledge in the fields of planning and design, horticulture, ecology, water and soil technology and engineering, infrastructure facilities, materials and supplies, etc. for the qualitative development of the human living environment and the protection of natural resources and cultural values. Considering the current goals of landscape architecture, most perspectives and approaches emphasize aspects in which a holistic view prevails; as human comfort, health and well-being are assumed to be integrated with the health of the natural environment, ecology and vital ecosystems. In this case, of course, the emphasis is more on aspects that play a decisive role in the concepts of sustainability, and the impact of a holistic view on recognizing minor issues and adjusting existing shortcomings is very high.

Today, in most developed and developing countries, the general goals and framework of landscape architecture definitions, at different scales, emphasize the improvement of the quality of open and green spaces, natural environments related to human activities, and especially the management of visual landscape effects and ecological processes. Also, some landscape architecture activities and services can be introduced in the areas of planning, design, and management and in several general areas: large scale (landscape planning and land use planning to settlement, sustainability, and landscape ecology), medium scale (planning and design in pristine natural areas and city limits, open spaces and natural environments within cities, natural elements such as rivers, forests, seashores, etc.), microscale (open and green spaces within cities, natural elements in the urban landscape, architectural sites and grounds, etc.).

The first step in creating architectural designs for spaces and grounds is to consider the spatial parameters and the potential goals and needs of those who will use them. The results of this research are presented in the form of a written plan, list, or spatial analysis. The next step in the design process is to consider the concept, or the idea and concept in landscaping, which includes the totality of plans and ideas about how to design and improve the use of a particular space. In most cases, these ideas are the result of research and studies, but sometimes plans and ideas are formed before research and changes are made following the studies.

Creativity

Sometimes the fear of encountering novelties and innovations or the habit of the obvious leads the designer to rely on simple and commonplace solutions. The first consequence of risk aversion is monotony, or the fruitless repetition of previous designs. No idea is inherently wrong, and it is the time and place conditions that sometimes make some ideas appear incorrect. In other words, one should trust the ideas and try to adjust and update them with the practice of creative thinking.

What are the types of plant forms in landscape architecture?

1. The conical shape deceptively displays the height and space created by the cone more than it actually is, adding a special beauty to the architecture of the area. Conical plants emphasize the vertical direction. These plants are often considered focal points in the design.
2. Columnar plants are similar to cone-shaped plants, except that their tips are rounded. They are used in educational spaces.
3. Round plants are the most common type of plants, often making up the majority of plants in school grounds.
4. Umbrella plants: The extent of these plants’ spread is proportional to their height, and in terms of shape, umbrella plants emphasize horizontal orientation. The nature of these trees is more compatible with flat lands without hills or valleys.
5. Pyramidal plants resemble a pyramid or sugar skull in appearance. The pyramidal shape has a formal and architectural character; they add strength and durability to the design ensemble.
6. Mad trees often grow in humid areas and can create an interesting sight in high places with branches hanging at sharp angles, even close to vertical.

Providing some solutions for creative thinking

1. Choosing the right space
2. Improving creative thinking
3. Mental use of ifs and buts
4. Project review
5. Control and change the plan
6. Examining impractical solutions
7. Expressing and illustrating the initial idea
8. Redirect
9. Rest the mind
10. Self-confidence