Oliver Haring
Project Consultant
I graduated from Birmingham City University with a degree in landscape architecture. LDA Design marks the beginning of a hopefully long and fruitful career designing spaces for all to enjoy.
My final project at university focused on urban regeneration, transforming a dilapidated area of post-industrial Birmingham into a cultural oasis. I also took part in a voluntary urban woodland project aimed at engaging young locals. I have travelled the length and breadth of the US, during which time I constructed a garden labyrinth for a family who were interested in outdoor meditation.
I consider the environment a top priority, and this doesn’t stop at the natural one. By 2050, the UN estimates that 68% of the world’s population will live in urban areas. These environments are also in crisis. They demand transformative approaches to make them healthier and more pleasant places to be. I am keen to be a part of this positive transition, and I consider landscape architecture to lie at the forefront of this change.
Q&A
I would pedestrianise sections to make it easier and safer for people to walk up and down, as well as allowing more spill out space for outside seating, cafés and local markets.
Piet Oudolf for his unique style, for seeing beyond the norm, and for challenging the way people look at planting; creating schemes that respond to all four seasons.
The Gardens at Dartington Hall Estate because of the scenic route along Dartington Drive, as well as the Gardens being open to the public free of charge. This makes them a lovely place to go to relax and take in the picturesque views from the cascading terraces.
