Landscape Architect
Urban Designer
Environmental Planner
Sustainable Design Consultant
Park & Recreation Planner
Landscape Design Researcher
Heritage & Cultural Landscape Specialist
Urban Resilience & Climate Design Consultant
The Theory of Landscape Architecture course introduces learners to the conceptual, cultural, and environmental foundations that shape the practice of landscape architecture, with a focus on the Malaysian context. Landscape architecture is not only about designing outdoor spaces but also about understanding the theories, philosophies, and social needs that guide how spaces are planned, built, and experienced.
In this course, participants will explore the historical and modern theories of landscape design, examining how cultural values, climate, and urbanization in Malaysia influence design approaches. They will study key design principles, spatial organization, and ecological considerations that underpin successful landscape architecture. The course also introduces contemporary issues such as sustainability, biodiversity, and urban resilience, helping students connect theory with current challenges in the Malaysian market.
Through lectures, discussions, and case studies of local and international projects, learners will develop a critical understanding of how theory informs practice. By the end of the program, participants will be able to apply theoretical frameworks to analyze and develop landscape design concepts, preparing them for professional practice in Malaysia’s growing design and construction industry.
The Theory of Landscape Architecture course provides learners with a deeper understanding of the ideas, principles, and philosophies that shape the design of outdoor spaces, particularly within Malaysia’s cultural and environmental context. It explores how historical influences, local traditions, climate, and urban challenges contribute to the way landscapes are imagined and built today.
Students will examine both classical and contemporary theories of landscape design, gaining insights into concepts of spatial organization, human interaction with nature, and ecological balance. The course also highlights pressing topics such as sustainable urban development, biodiversity conservation, and green infrastructure, ensuring that learners connect theoretical knowledge with Malaysia’s current market needs.
By analyzing local and international case studies, learners will see how theory is applied to practice and how it influences decision-making in design projects. By the end of the course, participants will have the ability to apply theoretical frameworks to develop meaningful, functional, and sustainable landscape concepts that respond to both global design trends and Malaysia’s unique environmental and cultural identity.
Trace the historical development of landscape architecture theories and explore key philosophies including classical, modern, and postmodern approaches. Learn the core principles of spatial organization, form, function, and human–nature interaction, supported by global case studies that shaped the discipline.
Examine sustainable and ecological design frameworks along with concepts of urban resilience, biodiversity, and climate-responsive design. Understand the influence of culture, art, and community in shaping landscapes through international case studies of innovative projects.
Study Malaysia’s environmental, cultural, and urban challenges. Learn how to apply global theories to local landscapes such as parks, urban spaces, resorts, and heritage sites. Explore national policies, standards, and sustainable development goals (SDGs) while reviewing Malaysian case studies. Workshop: apply theory to create a Malaysian landscape design concept.
Module 1: Foundations of Landscape Architecture Theory
Historical development of landscape architecture theories
Key philosophies: classical, modern, and postmodern approaches
Core principles of spatial organization, form, function, and human–nature interaction
Global case studies that shaped the discipline
Module 2: Contemporary Theories & Emerging Concepts
Sustainable and ecological design frameworks
Urban resilience, biodiversity, and climate-responsive design
The role of culture, art, and community in shaping landscapes
International case studies of innovative landscape projects
Module 3: Landscape Architecture in the Malaysian Context
Malaysian environmental, cultural, and urban challenges
Application of theories to local landscapes (parks, urban spaces, resorts, heritage sites)
Policies, standards, and sustainable development goals in Malaysia
Case studies of Malaysian projects and their theoretical basis
Workshop: applying theory to a Malaysian landscape design concept
Landscape Architect
Urban Designer
Environmental Planner
Sustainable Design Consultant
Park & Recreation Planner
Landscape Design Researcher
Heritage & Cultural Landscape Specialist
Urban Resilience & Climate Design Consultant
201901011352 (1320680-K)
