Bachelor of Landscape Architecture Landscape Design Flashcards
7 cards from real BLArch Bachelor of Landscape Architecture practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Bachelor of Landscape Architecture Landscape Design flashcards as text
Which design principle refers to the visual weight and stability achieved when both sides of a central axis are mirror images of each other?
Answer: Symmetrical balance
Symmetrical balance (also called formal balance) occurs when identical elements are arranged on both sides of a central axis, creating a sense of order and stability.
In landscape design, a 'borrowed view' refers to:
Answer: Incorporating distant scenery outside the site boundary into the design composition
Borrowed view is a design technique that intentionally frames and incorporates attractive scenery beyond the site's property lines into the perceived landscape.
Which grading concept describes the minimum recommended slope for lawn areas to ensure adequate surface drainage?
Answer: 1–2%
A minimum slope of 1–2% is generally recommended for lawn areas to prevent ponding while remaining gentle enough for mowing and foot traffic.
What is the primary function of a 'ha-ha' in landscape design?
Answer: A sunken retaining wall that maintains an unobstructed view while keeping livestock out
A ha-ha is a recessed landscape design element that creates a vertical barrier (usually a wall set into a ditch) invisible from a distance, preventing livestock from entering while preserving sight lines.
When designing a rain garden, which factor most determines its appropriate size?
Answer: The drainage area contributing runoff and local soil infiltration rate
Rain garden sizing is driven by the impervious area draining into it and the native soil's ability to infiltrate water within 24–48 hours.
In the context of planting design, 'succession planting' refers to:
Answer: Staggering plant types so that visual interest or harvest occurs continuously across seasons
Succession planting staggers bloom times, fruiting periods, or seasonal interest so the landscape maintains appeal throughout the year rather than peaking all at once.
Which Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standard applies to the maximum running slope of an accessible route that is NOT a ramp?
Answer: 1:20 (5%)
Accessible routes that are not designated ramps must not exceed a 1:20 (5%) running slope; steeper paths must be designed and built as ramps with handrails.