When Ian McHarg published Design with Nature in 1969, he set in motion a concept for space planning that has steadily evolved into a guiding principle of modern development. The idea of doing more while taking less was novel 50 years ago, but today is essential. EDSA founder Edward Stone, Jr. went a bit further imparting his viewpoint that environmental and social functionality was not an either-or consideration, but a standard to uphold.

In the decades that have followed, landscape architects and land planners have worked to enrich spaces with multiple benefits and uses while also preserving as much of the existing ecology as possible. Commercial, residential, hospitality and entertainment offerings demand the value that only integrative design can deliver. If a space is to provide jobs to a community, is it not worth more to everyone if it also reduces the impact on local resources like water? If a school is to teach our children about the world, aren’t gardens that grow living plants and food a powerful introduction about the way nature works? Designing spaces for multi-purposes and multiple functions not only supports return on investment, but it also enhances the relationship between people and place.

In designing for multi-function, outdoor green spaces become much more than parks. Communities are revitalized by diverse populations coming together, sharing experiences and ideas – providing opportunities for collaboration and partnership that may drive further innovation in public and private sectors. People are once again connected to the land in meaningful ways that invites social, economic and environmental growth. The results are inspiring and are becoming more common around the world – a progressive step along a path we should all take.