Echoes of the land : developing a lexicon of landscape patterns for an agri-tourism farm in the Waterberg region

Abstract

This project addresses the impact of landscape architecture on the aesthetics of rural environments, drawing on the critiques and design theories of Christopher Alexander. The modernisation of our food systems led to a shift towards large-scale commercial farms, which often prioritise efficiency and production over ecological sustainability, resilience, and aesthetics. There is a growing recognition of the importance of incorporating landscape architecture interventions in productive landscapes. The study uses research by design approach, gathering qualitative and quantitative data by methods of mapping and sketching. The goal of the research is to develop a regional landscape lexicon that could aid the design of a food farm in the Waterberg region of Limpopo, South Africa.