Bordeaux Sketches

Bordeaux: A Turning Point in My Landscape Architecture Journey

During my second year, a university trip to Bordeaux, France, profoundly changed my perspective on pursuing a degree in Landscape Architecture. Until this point, I had questioned my choice, as the course lacked creative design modules and exposure to inspiring examples of landscape architecture.

Often when a friend or a relative asked 'What are you studying?' the immediate follow up question would be

'Interesting, so kind of garden design right?'

It was difficult to answer because I lacked a personal connection to standout projects in the field. This was partly due to the scarcity of landscape architecture as a profession in my home region and limited opportunities to engage with exemplary work.

Bordeaux, however, was a revelation. It was the first city where I encountered numerous spaces and infrastructure shaped by impactful landscape architecture, such as the awe-inspiring Water Mirror along the Garonne River and the Jardin Botanique de Bordeaux. These spaces showcased how thoughtful design could enhance the urban fabric and engage the public.

Our class collaborated with a Bordeaux landscape architecture university class, and we explored the city on foot, experiencing spaces firsthand rather than through classroom screens. This immersive approach highlighted how new infrastructure integrates with its surroundings and serves the community. Conversations with local students further enriched the experience by providing cultural and professional insights.

We later explored independently, sketching elements that caught our attention. The sketches presented here were created using pencil, watercolour, and fine liner, accompanied by notes capturing my reflections on the city's dynamic environment. This trip not only inspired my work but reaffirmed my decision to pursue landscape architecture as a career.