CLARB - Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards Schematic Design and Planning Questions and Answers

Question 1

During the schematic design phase for a new urban park, a landscape architect creates a series of freehand drawings composed of circles and amorphous shapes to represent different programmatic elements like 'playground,' 'picnic area,' and 'open lawn.' Lines of varying thickness connect these shapes.
What is this type of drawing BEST known as?

Accepted Answer

A functional or bubble diagram

Answer

A master plan

Answer

A site inventory plan

Answer

A construction detail sheet

Question 2

A landscape architect is developing a schematic plan for a corporate campus. The client's primary goal is to encourage spontaneous interaction among employees from different departments. Which of the following circulation strategies would be most effective in achieving this goal?

Accepted Answer

Creating a single, winding central spine with multiple nodes or 'pause points' that connect all major buildings.

Answer

A series of direct, straight pathways connecting building entrances to parking lots.

Answer

A grid-based pathway system that offers the shortest distance between any two points.

Answer

Minimizing pathways to encourage employees to cut across lawn areas.

Question 3

Which of the following elements is typically considered TOO detailed for inclusion in a schematic design package for a landscape project?

Accepted Answer

The specific species of a perennial to be used in a planting bed.

Answer

General locations of primary and secondary pathways.

Answer

Approximate size and location of major programmatic areas like plazas and lawns.

Answer

Identification of major view corridors to be preserved or created.

Question 4

When presenting a schematic design to a client, what is the primary objective?

Accepted Answer

To gain approval on the overall design concept, spatial arrangement, and general project direction.

Answer

To obtain a final building permit from the local municipality.

Answer

To provide contractors with exact quantities for bidding purposes.

Answer

To finalize the selection of all site furnishings and lighting fixtures.

Question 5

A preliminary cost estimate prepared during the schematic design phase is typically expected to have what level of accuracy?

Accepted Answer

Within +/- 15-25% of the final construction cost.

Answer

Within +/- 5-10% of the final construction cost.

Answer

An exact figure used for securing construction loans.

Answer

A rough order of magnitude based on land value only.

Question 6

During the transition from site analysis to schematic design, a landscape architect's focus shifts from:

Accepted Answer

Documenting existing conditions to proposing spatial organization and relationships.

Answer

Specifying materials to preparing construction schedules.

Answer

Generating broad concepts to creating detailed planting plans.

Answer

Bidding the project to administering construction.