The evolving circle of landscape design

In landscape design and ecological restoration, humans shape the landscape. In doing so, practitioners express values that are not always stated explicitly. Here, we discuss how the values expressed by landscape designers and ecological scientists have constantly evolved through history and remain contested and re-negotiated today-a phenomenon we term the evolving circle of landscape design. Values inherent in present-day landscape design and restoration (e.g. biodiversity, climate resilience) may be one transient point among many (e.g. power relations of societies in the past, digital landscapes of societies in the future) on this evolving circle. We believe that a critical, reflective understanding of the values expressed during landscape design and restoration will enable practitioners to choose more freely which values are expressed in landscapes, and that doing so will empower our disciplines to help society meet its present and future challenges.

Automated summary

In landscape design and ecological restoration, humans shape the landscape and express values that constantly evolve. These values have been contested throughout history and continue to be negotiated today, forming the evolving circle of landscape design. Understanding and reflecting on the values expressed in landscape design and restoration can empower practitioners to choose which values are expressed in landscapes, enabling our disciplines to address present and future challenges.