Computer Tools in Landscape Design: review

Abstract

Modern computer software enhances the productivity of design, simplifies the of precise drawings creation with accurate element placement, and facilitates quick editing and files sharing. Manual drawing is nearly absent in architectural design, and in landscape design it remains only in projects for private clients. Addressing new challenges in landscape planning it is necessary to create landscape-informational model to compensate for theoretical shortcomings and expand the scope of design and construction of local landscapes. Therefore, to solve the main tasks of a landscape designer, one must select those software tools capable of executing design processes more qualitatively and comprehensively, according to users’ requirements and conditions. The purpose of the research is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of computer tools available on the market for landscape design work. An analysis was conducted of the main functionalities, system requirements, interfaces, and plant objects for the following software solutions, popular among landscape architects in Ukraine The tools for plant creation, both in 2D and 3D graphics, the number of basic objects, and their quality in presentation materials are particularly critical for dendroplans creation. For designers exclusively involved in landscape design, «Realtime Landscape Architect 23» or «VectorWorks Landmark» may be optimal choices due to their specialization and user-friendly interfaces. For integrating landscape solutions with general architectural projects «Archicad 26» might be more suitable due to its BIM capabilities and collaborative features. «AutoCAD 24» remains an essential tool in the construction industry, although specific landscape design tasks may require additional plugins and settings. Key words: landscape design, dendroplanning, computer programs, CAD (Computer-aided design and calculation system).