2012 will be another interesting year for landscape architecture in China. Currently, a lot of people are looking at a slowdown for 2012 as the real estate market continues to cool. I hope that it is not too great and that the market slows gradually. For landscape architecture, this could be a good thing as many design and construction projects run at too great a speed, often missing great opportunities to advance landscape architecture.
There will always be the residential market in China with its luxury residential and neo-classic designs, which I am not a great fan of, as they do little to progress landscape architecture in a nation that has a great opportunity to integrate green infrastructure into cities, including residential developments. Green, Eco, Sustainable will continue to be buzz words inside and outside of China, but I think there are still great opportunities to advance the profession, including many aspects, including design, technical competency, quality and overall environment and ecology.
I think in China, we need to focus more on the quality of design, the quality of green spaces (not just creating a 30% green ratio to meet regulatory standards), urban forests, green infrastructure, and talent within the landscape profession. If there is a slowdown, I urge all principals and managers to take a step back and, instead of cutting staff to lower costs, explore other ways to capitalise on it and see it as an opportunity to train and enhance your team. You have reaped the rewards of a booming economy; now it’s time to give back to the profession in 2012 and create a generation of great designers who can take China and your firm forward through the coming decades.
Have a great 2012, and feel free to contact me damian@damianholmes.com