Expanding Access to Landscape Architecture
Archives for Research and Practice

Mission

WG2 aims to deepen international collaboration and boost European leadership in Landscape Architecture (LA) history and design by improving access to and use of archival materials. It encourages the integration of archives into contemporary practice and interdisciplinary research – especially in restoration and redesign projects, and historical analysis.

WG2 also promotes more inclusive, critical perspectives by highlighting underrepresented voices (e.g., women in LA, postcolonial viewpoints), connecting LA with related disciplines like architecture, planning, public policy, and heritage management.

Key Activities

1. Mapping LA History Research and Gaps

Assessing the current state of LA archival research and operations across Europe.

Activities:

• Short term scientific missions (STSMs) to review European LA history research.
• Online workshops to exchange knowledge and define case study topics.

2. Case Studies on LA Archive Use in Practice

Exploring how archives are being used in landscape architecture projects, with a focus on Inclusiveness-target countries (ITCs).

Activities:

• Short term scientific missions (STSMs) to conduct regional case studies.
• Workshop to analyse and synthesize outcomes.

3. Understand Archive Users’ Needs

Identifying the expectations and challenges faced by archive users – from researchers to practitioners and the general public.

Activities:

• Short term scientific mission (STSM) to conduct stakeholder interviews.
• Workshop to compile insights into a comprehensive user needs report.

4. Co-Creating Practical Guidelines

Collaborating with key stakeholders (e.g. landscape architects, librarians, heritage experts…) to develop a practical catalogue of how archives can support LA projects.

Activities:

• Workshops to co-develop and document these strategies.

5. Joint Training School

Cross-disciplinary training school with WG1 and WG3 to build practical skills.

Activity:

• A joint training school for landscape practitioners.