Exploring the Best Uses of Water in Landscape Architecture: Advocating for Rainwater Harvesting and Sustainable Design

Landscape architecture teams are taking the lead in exploring the best uses of water on projects from the inside out. In a recent article by Rachael Meyer from Weber Thompson, she emphasizes the importance of landscape architects advocating for progressive water strategies early in the design process.

Seattle, known for its abundant rainfall and pristine rivers, still faces high water bills and takes clean water for granted. However, water is not an infinite resource, and the environmental benefits of creating resilient urban infrastructure are clear. Landscape architects play a crucial role in maximizing the impact of projects on water usage in the region.

When designing landscapes for urban environments, the financial justification for lowering water usage becomes more apparent as the scale of a building increases. Exploring ways to harvest rainwater onsite is essential for every building type. Meyer highlights the importance of assessing the viability of capturing and re-using stormwater or greywater early in the design process to determine the best use of water on a site.

One key consideration is the distinction between potable and non-potable water uses. Designers must ensure that municipally cleaned potable water is only used for necessary purposes, while non-potable uses like toilet flushing and irrigation should have separate water reclamation systems.

Optimizing cistern sizing and system design are also crucial aspects of water management in buildings. Meyer suggests that using rainwater for flushing toilets, rather than irrigation, can be a more efficient use of resources. Water reclamation systems for toilet flushing closely resemble commercial irrigation systems, with filters and UV treatment to ensure water quality.

Overall, Meyer emphasizes the importance of integrating nature with the built environment to improve water management and environmental sustainability. By innovating, optimizing, and combining water systems inside and outside buildings, significant improvements can be made in protecting water as a valuable resource. Landscape architects have a unique opportunity to lead the way in creating more sustainable and water-efficient urban environments.