Who is considered the "father of landscape architecture"?

Frederick Law Olmsted is regarded as the "father of landscape architecture" largely due to his pioneering contributions to the field and his influential designs that established foundational principles of landscape architecture. His work in the mid-to-late 19th century emphasized not only the aesthetics of landscapes but also their social and environmental impacts. Olmsted is best known for co-designing Central Park in New York City, which exemplified the integration of natural landscapes into urban settings, promoting public health and recreation.

Olmsted's design philosophy advocated for the creation of functional open spaces that catered to community needs, reflecting a deep understanding of human interaction with the environment. He believed in the transformative power of landscape design to improve societal conditions and enhance quality of life, ideas that resonate strongly in contemporary landscape architecture practice.

His comprehensive approach and successful realization of large-scale projects positioned him as a leading figure in the field, inspiring future generations to prioritously consider both environmental and social aspects in their designs. This visionary mindset and influential body of work are why he is celebrated as a foundational figure in landscape architecture.