Robert Reich School of Landscape Architecture

Portfolio

LA 7041 Urban Systems Studio

The objectives of the LA 7041 Urban Systems studio course are to expose students to urban issues related to the contemporary practice of landscape architecture based on the following: the premise of the city as a system of numerous overlapping and intersecting systems, both natural and human-made; and therefore an effective strategy for dealing with such complex issues is rooted in understanding relevant components of these systems and devising metrics that will inform design initiatives.

The decision to focus on New Orleans public parks and open spaces for the Spring 2018 semester came about through a timely opportunity to collaborate with non-profit organization Parks for All on an initiative to develop a report card to grade parks and open spaces of all sizes, in multiple categories. Such a guide would assist in the shared goal of a beautified and accessible park system.