Artificial Intelligence and Landscape Architecture

The rapid evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) promises to reshape many professions, including landscape architecture. From design efficiency and data-driven decisions to ethical considerations and potential job displacement, AI's influence is expected to be vast and multifaceted.

By embracing AI technologies, landscape architects can unlock new possibilities, optimize workflows, and create innovative solutions that shape the future of our environments. Engaging with AI means not only elevating your work but also redefining the very methodology of your design and implementation processes.

Canadian schools of landscape architecture are already integrating AI into their curriculum, preparing the next wave of professionals. This shift underscores the importance for practicing landscape architects to stay informed and adaptable, ensuring you remain at the cutting edge of your field.

2025 AI in Landscape Architecture Survey

In 2025, an academic research team, in collaboration with the CSLA, ASLA and IFLA, conducted a global survey to better understand how artificial intelligence (AI) is being adopted into landscape architecture practice. This survey builds on the results of the previous survey conducted in 2023. Highlights from the 2025 survey are presented below. We acknowledge the response rate was lower than in the 2023 survey, however the findings still point to trends emerging across the profession.

Highlights

AI use is concentrated in research and writing tasks. The most common applications are background research and information gathering (50%), drafting briefs, proposals or syllabi (47%), and predesign/business development work (41%).

Efficiency is the primary benefit. Three-quarters (75%) of respondents report increased task efficiency when using AI tools.
Learning is largely informal. 92% of respondents are learning through trial and error, with half relying on online tutorials. There is strong demand for structured training, workshops, and clearer professional guidance.

Ethical and professional concerns remain high. Over 70% expressed concerns about business ethics, accuracy, and the erosion of human connection in design. Many also raised concerns about intellectual property and impacts on entry-level roles.

The profession anticipates significant impact. A strong majority believe AI will at least moderately reshape professional skills (71%), influence governance and accountability (75%), and affect the quality of design outputs (70%)
These findings signal both opportunity and responsibility. As AI tools evolve, landscape architecture organizations, educators, and practitioners will need to proactively shape guidance, governance, and professional development.

Read the full report for detailed findings and analysis.

Survey analysis by Brent Chamberlain, Benjamin George, and Phillip Fernberg at Utah State University; Heather Braiden at the University of Montreal; and input and supplementation from Jessica Fernandez at the University of Georgia.

What are Canadian Landscape Architects saying about AI?

In December 2023, the CSLA conducted a survey on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Landscape Architecture. We received an outstanding 411 responses to our survey! The high response rate speaks to the importance of the topic and the interest our members have in participating in future discussions on how AI is affecting practice, education, and research.

To learn more about the survey results, read Heather Braiden’s article here.