‘Landscape design is not just planting trees’

A senior landscape architect, Shikha Sharma believes most people lack awareness about the developments in architecture and are unable to keep up with the times. While many take interest in building design or interior design, they also need to be educated about the various facets of landscape design and its immense importance today. Read the interview to know more:

Take us through your professional journey.

I began my career by working at two architecture firms in Delhi one after the other. Through my job, I developed a keen interest in landscape. I cracked Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) and joined School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) to pursue a master’s degree in Landscape. After completing my degree, I joined Vividh Landscape Consultants Pvt Ltd.

Can you tell us about your work in particular?

I look after the design team. I am involved in the landscape design of a particular project. The projects range from industrial landscapes to residential landscapes.

What do you need to keep in mind when you are making a landscape design?

The elements vary with each type of project. In the case of residential projects, the client usually demands a particular theme or concept. There are some must-have features like a children’s play area or an elders’ meeting room. The features are different from the ones in a villa, for instance. For industrial projects, sustainability is of major concern. We need to ensure that the nearby species are not impacted.

Are there challenges?

The biggest challenge is the lack of awareness among people. People are usually willing to spend most of their budget on the building or the interiors but not on landscape design. The latter, however, directly impacts the environment so it is very important. It is a common misconception that landscape design is all about beautification.

Landscape design is much more than planting trees or adding greenery. It involves effective site planning to meet environmental concerns. It contributes as much to your quality of life as anything else.

Also Read: ‘Sustainability is a trade-off between investing now and getting rewards in the future’

What made you opt for graduation in Architecture from AIT-SAP?

As a young girl, I enjoyed looking at designs and took an active interest in art and craft. Upon completing school, I knew I did not want to choose a traditional course for my graduation. That is when my father recommended Architecture. I cleared the entrance exam and chose AIT-SAP. I completed my graduation in 2010.

What do you remember of the time you spent at AIT-SAP?

The experience was very good. The five years I spent at Apeejay were enriching. The faculty — Sumi ma’am, Aditya sir, and others — focused on each student’s progress. When I joined the college, I did not have enough idea about what the course entailed. My professors provided all the exposure I needed through various interesting modules and classes. Architecture involves a multi-disciplinary approach where you learn about science, history, art, and more.

Any advice for students of Architecture?

Before opting for Architecture, students must have a fair idea of what it really involves. They can consult parents, teachers, seniors, or mentors. Once you get into the field, you have to work very hard to achieve success. But the road is not smooth, so you have to be mentally prepared for all the challenges that may come your way. Architecture is a rewarding field at the end of the day, so if you are passionate about it, you will definitely reach your goal.