In geological terms, what we refer to as landscapes are expressions of a larger process in the shaping of landforms. We know that the earth’s surface is a dynamic and complex result of the interactions between the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and the earth’s surface.
The diversity of terrains found on earth influences the patterns of human occupation, use, and the built environment. Landforms are defined as natural terrain units that, where developed under similar conditions of climate, weathering, erosion, and mass wasting, will exhibit a predictable range of physical and visual characteristics. This means that distinctions can be made between terrain types so that we can describe unique topography, composition, or structure.
These shaping process works over long periods of time before most landforms show significant change, although some of these processes, some influenced by man, can significantly influence the landscape at a much faster rate. If we begin to think of landscapes as dynamic elements in terms of time and motion, measurable and quantifiable data can be extracted. Performative aspects of a site can be used as parameters in a rationalized design process.
Readings and Images:
Douglas Way. Terrain Analysis.
McIntyre, Eilers, Mairs. Physical Geography.
Kim Sichel. To Fly.
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