Simon Colwill

IU International University of Applied Sciences | IU · Landscape Architecture

The central aim of this research project was to develop monitoring methods to assist landscape architects, clients and contractors in identifying and diagnosing (diagnosis) weak points and vulnerabilities in built landscape works, thus avoiding them in new projects (prognosis). The research also focused on developing optimisation, prevention and pr...

This practice orientated cumulative PhD thesis is based on the hypothesis that it is possible to optimise design, detailing, construction and maintenance techniques by monitoring and evaluating the development of landscape architecture projects at regular intervals after completion. The aim is to enhance the performance of future projects by analys...

Part 2 is the ‘Catalogue of weak points and vulnerabilities’ which contains the case study evaluations and optimisation strategies resulting from the research. A HANDBOOK FOR PRACTITIONERS containing DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION RECOMMENDATIONS for avoiding weakness and vulnerability in built landscape works. The use of this research enables practitio...

This paper will present the value of creating common good through a network of four international organizations that work together to document and advance systemic change in the public interest. The paper will explore the nexus of organizational missions and the commonalities of project goals, using examples from the Design for Common Good global p...

This chapter discusses landscape construction teaching methods that focus on learning through on-site learning activities. These student assignments use built landscape works as the source of enquiry and learning. Case studies of courses at the Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin) and Harvard Graduate School of Design (Harvard GSD) will illus...

Built landscapes are under relentless attack from both spontaneous urban vegetation (plants that colonise naturally without cultivation) and the gradual encroachment (spreading) of existing plantings onto adjacent surfaces. The location, spread and rate of this growth is highly influenced by microclimatic factors, the availability of soil and propa...

One of the most aggressive agents influencing change to built landscapes is the user. This usage is influenced by many factors such as the activities and functions available, climatic factors, the time of day, the day of the week and seasonal variations. In structural terms, usage is a form of mechanical loading which can be static or dynamic and e...

In landscape architecture the optimal condition is often not reached at the time of practical completion, projects mature through time and patination throughout the project lifecycle. The processes of patination and subsequent deterioration leave traces on the surfaces of the built environment which highlight deficiencies in design and detailing, c...

This paper focuses on the impact of climatic forces on built landscapes through time. It explores the initial results of a research project at the Technische Universität Berlin exploring the dynamics of change to built landscapes through time. The impact of climatic processes on built landscape is determined by the level of climatic exposure togeth...

Design for the Common Good is a coalition of networks who are committed to design practice, education and research that improves social, economic and environmental outcomes for its users. We promote local accountability and maintain a global perspective. Design for the Common Good connects designers, students, researchers, collaborators and end-use...

This article presents a research project and landscape construction teaching methods at the TU-Berlin focusing on the processes of change through time. The research is based on the hypothesis that it is possible to optimise design, detailing, construction and maintenance techniques by monitoring and evaluating projects at regular intervals after co...

This paper discusses landscape construction teaching methods and a research project at the TU-Berlin focusing on change to built landscapes through time. The research is based on the hypothesis that it is possible to optimise design, detailing, construction and maintenance techniques by monitoring and evaluating projects at regular intervals after...