Annual Awards Criteria

Landscape Design

1. Functionality and Purpose

• Use of Space: Is the landscape effectively designed to accommodate its intended use (e.g., recreational, aesthetic, or ecological purposes)?
• Accessibility: Is the design easily accessible to all users, considering factors like pathways, ramps, and ease of navigation?
• Practicality: Are the features, such as seating areas, walkways, and outdoor kitchens, functional and usable?

2. Aesthetic Appeal

• Cohesiveness: Does the landscape follow a clear design theme or style (e.g., formal, naturalistic, modern)?
• Focal Points: Are there visually striking focal points like sculptures, water features, or distinctive plants?
• Balance and Proportion: Is there a harmonious balance between hardscape (e.g., patios, walkways) and softscape (plants, lawns)? Are elements proportionate to the overall space?

3. Plant Selection and Health

• Appropriateness: Are the plants chosen suitable for the climate, soil type, and light conditions of the site? Do they serve functional roles (e.g., shade, erosion control)?
• Variety: Does the landscape feature a diverse selection of plants, offering a mix of textures, colors, and seasonal interest?
• Plant Health: Are the plants thriving and well-maintained, with no visible signs of disease or neglect?

4. Sustainability

• Water Efficiency: Are drought-tolerant plants used where appropriate? Does the design incorporate water-saving features like drip irrigation, rain gardens, or permeable surfaces?
• Native Plants: Are native or regionally adapted plants used to reduce maintenance and support local ecosystems?
• Energy Efficiency: Does the landscape design take into account energy-saving elements, such as strategically placed trees for shade or windbreaks to reduce energy use in adjacent buildings?

5. Ecological and Environmental Impact

• Wildlife Habitat: Does the design encourage biodiversity, providing habitats for local wildlife like birds, insects, or small mammals?
• Pollution Control: Are plants used to filter pollutants, stabilize soil, and reduce runoff? Are sustainable materials chosen for hardscaping?
• Minimization of Chemicals: Does the landscape rely on organic practices or minimize the use of pesticides and fertilizers?

6. Hardscaping Elements

• Durability and Quality: Are hardscape elements like paths, walls, fences, and patios built with durable materials that can withstand weather and wear?
• Material Selection: Are materials (e.g., stone, wood, concrete) chosen for their compatibility with the overall design and natural surroundings? Are they sustainable and locally sourced where possible?
• Craftsmanship: Are the hardscape features well-constructed with attention to detail and craftsmanship? Are joints, seams, and finishes clean and precise?

7. Lighting

• Functionality: Does the lighting enhance safety, particularly in pathways, entrances, and steps?
• Aesthetics: Is the lighting used to highlight key features or create ambiance without overwhelming the design? Is there an appropriate balance between light and shadow?
• Energy Efficiency: Are energy-efficient options such as solar-powered lights or LED fixtures used where possible?

8. Water Features

• Aesthetic and Sensory Impact: Do water features (e.g., fountains, ponds, streams) enhance the visual and auditory appeal of the landscape? Are they proportionate to the overall space?
• Sustainability: Is water usage minimized through features like recirculating water systems or rainwater catchment for ponds and fountains?
• Maintenance: Are the water features designed for easy maintenance and durability, ensuring long-term functionality without excessive upkeep?

9. Seasonal Interest and Longevity

• Year-Round Appeal: Does the landscape offer visual or functional interest throughout the year, with plants or features that highlight each season (e.g., spring blooms, fall colors, evergreen plants)?
• Long-Term Growth: Is the design planned to accommodate plant growth over time, ensuring that trees and shrubs don’t become overcrowded or obstructive as they mature?

10. Sense of Place

• Contextual Integration: Does the landscape design complement the architecture of the nearby buildings and the surrounding environment? Does it reflect the cultural or historical context of the area?
• Uniqueness: Is there a distinct character or identity in the design that sets it apart from other landscapes? Does it reflect the personality or vision of the homeowner or community?
• Connection to Nature: Does the landscape evoke a strong connection to nature, encouraging interaction with the environment?

11. Maintenance and Durability

• Low Maintenance: Is the landscape designed to require minimal upkeep, with self-sustaining plants and durable materials that reduce the need for frequent care?
• Longevity: Are the plantings and materials chosen for long-term durability, capable of withstanding environmental stress and weather conditions?
• Maintenance Accessibility: Are irrigation systems, lighting fixtures, and other infrastructure easy to access for repair or replacement?

12. User Experience

• Comfort and Usability: Does the design provide comfortable and usable spaces for activities like sitting, walking, or entertaining? Are there shaded areas for protection from the sun or spaces designed for relaxation?
• Flow and Movement: Is the flow of movement through the landscape intuitive and pleasant? Do pathways lead naturally to important areas?
• Engagement: Does the landscape engage the senses through sound, texture, color, and scent, enhancing the overall experience of the space?

By considering these criteria, landscape design can be judged holistically, ensuring a balance of aesthetics, functionality, environmental responsibility, and long-term sustainability.