Interview: Ryan James BLA, OALA, CSLA, Basterfield and Associates

I knew Ryan when he started the Landscape Architecture program at the University of Guelph, and have had the pleasure of working with him on numerous design build projects over the last couple of years. Ryan now works for the Peterborough firm Basterfield and Associates.

Ian
Ryan, You have had the luxury to spend your chidhood in both a Rural and Urban setting, Now as a sucesssfull Landscape Architect living in Peterborough, What do you consider the most difficult properties of the two to landscape?
Ryan
I would say the urban properties are more challenging. In a compact yard you've got to make every square foot serve several purposes while making that space feel twice as big and very private at the same time. On a rural property you have much more flexibility to work with all the space you want. You just have to draw all that space together and keep a strong continuity from one end to the other. Mind you, these challenges are all part of the game - a smart response to your context is a sure sign of great design.
 

Ian
You must see a great deal of your clients in high stress careers, What landscape ideas do you have that are effective in winding them down to enjoy the gardens you create?
Ryan
Yeah, I have one guy in mind as I answer this question. What he needed was clean, horizontal lines and a very simple planting design. More importantly, there is a seat that he takes in his garden. This particular chair reflects his own character and it offers him a refreshing view. The view is the real key. There is a constant renewal with the cycles of each day and each season - evidence that everything unfolds in time, even if it takes longer than you'd like. As a regular reminder of this renewal, I made sure that he'd have plants growing and playing in the light at the end of each day.
 

Ian
Landscape design is always re-inventing itself, there is a constant evolution of new products, textures and techniques that allow the pro's to push the envelope of design and construction. What do you see as the major change that you have instituted into your designs?
Ryan
Conceptual sketching has always been a valuable part of my service. People want to know what their design will look like on the ground, and a good sketch is a very quick and easy way to understand that. The challenge with sketches is to make sure that they are also quick and easy to prepare. Now 3-D modeling software allows me to do this. I can refine a design before I commit it to ink, and then I can pan around for clear view-points. Once I have this, I still finish the sketches with my old markers and pencils to deliver the artistic quality of a hand rendering.

for More information you can Contact Ryan at:
Ryan James BLA, OALA, CSLA
Basterfield and Associates
ryan@basterfield.ca