Diandra Karima is a landscape architect at Cracknell with over 6 years of international experience, working across Italy, the US, Switzerland, and Indonesia. Her approach is rooted in ecological and human-centred design, with a strong interest in inclusive, context-driven landscapes. She has contributed to projects at a range of scales and stages, supporting the creation of spaces that promote community well-being and environmental sensitivity. WLA recently had the chance to discuss Diandra’s thoughts about working in different countries, ecological design and what young landscape architects should learn today.
WLA | You have worked over the past six years in several countries, including Italy, the US, Switzerland, and Indonesia. Are there similarities in landscape architecture across these countries?
Across the different countries I’ve worked in, what unites landscape architecture is fundamentally the relationship between humans and nature. Regardless of context, the goal is always to design spaces that enhance how people live, interact, and connect with their environment.
At the same time, this relationship is expressed differently depending on local conditions. While many construction methods are broadly similar, the choice of planting and hardscape materials often depends on what is available and suitable for the environment.
For example, during my professional experience in Indonesia, I worked in a tropical, humid climate with relatively constant temperatures year-round. These conditions strongly influenced design decisions, particularly in terms of planting strategies and material choices.
When I later moved to Europe, I realised there was still a lot for me to learn. The changing seasons shifted how I understood landscape design. Plants look and behave differently throughout the year, so it’s important to think about how a space changes over time. I also had to get used to different soil conditions, plant types, and materials suited to colder climates. It took me some time to adjust, so I focused on observing, asking questions, and slowly building my understanding of the new context.
I see these variations not as constraints, but as opportunities to create more site-specific and meaningful designs. Integrating local materials and environmental conditions allows the landscape to reflect its identity while still supporting human needs. In this way, both the conceptual and technical aspects work together to enhance the overall quality of life through design.
WLA | How do you apply ecological and human-centred design within your projects?
For me, ecological and human-centred design are inseparable—they need to be developed together from the start. I start by building a strong understanding of the site, looking at its terrain, climate, and ecological systems, as well as its history and the more intangible aspects, like local stories and identity.
At the same time, envisioning how people will use and experience the space is essential, so the design responds not only to environmental conditions but also to human needs. The process is never linear—it’s a continuous back-and-forth between analysis and design, where each step informs the next. As my understanding of the site deepens, the design evolves with it. I see this iterative approach as essential to creating landscapes that are both ecologically responsive and meaningful for people.
For instance, I designed a house in Indonesia with a courtyard filled with native tropical plants that work like a natural “lung,” improving airflow and providing shade through tree canopies and layered greenery. Positioned in front of the main gathering space, it creates a simple, seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.
WLA | What do you think is the best part of your job on a day-to-day basis?
One of the best parts of my day-to-day work is the collaborative side of the design process. I really enjoy working closely with the team—brainstorming ideas, exchanging perspectives, and exploring different design directions together. It’s a very dynamic and inspiring process.
What makes it even more exciting is working with people from different backgrounds at Cracknell, where everyone brings their own insights and ways of thinking, yet we all share the same goal: creating strong, thoughtful design. That diversity often yields ideas that are more creative and unexpected than you might come up with individually.
For me, that shared process of developing and shaping ideas together is not only rewarding, but also one of the most enjoyable parts of the job.
WLA | What key skill should every young landscape architect learn?
In my view, one key skill every young landscape architect should develop is the ability to prioritize ecological thinking. While hardscape and technical design remain important, ecology and sustainability are becoming central to the profession—especially as landscape architecture plays a larger role in addressing environmental challenges.
From a technical side, it’s also important to be comfortable with commonly used design tools, including software and emerging technologies. This helps communicate ideas clearly and collaborate effectively in an international context.
Equally important is staying open to exploring the field from different perspectives and connecting it with personal interests. For me, that often means bringing an analogue camera when I go hiking and photographing the landscape. It helps me notice framing, light and shadow, and proportions, while gradually building a mental library of planting palettes. It’s a simple way to stay curious and engaged.
Thanks to Diandra for taking the time to answer our questions and provide some insights.
Image Credits: Copyright Diandra Karima unless otherwise captioned