The ILI is the professional body representing Landscape Architects and Parks Professionals in Ireland, and is recognised by the Irish State as such. It was formed in 1992 through the amalgamation of the Irish Institute of Landscape Architects and the Institute of Landscape Horticulture of Ireland. This effectively joined private practices and public sector members, enabling them to collaborate and further develop the profession in Ireland.
Since its formation, the Institute has expanded its membership categories to include PPILI (Parks Professional); and has grown it membership to c. 140, reflecting the rise in profile and strength of the profession in Ireland. Governed by a Constitution and a Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, ILI has a current 7 membership categories – Student, Graduate, Affiliate, Corporate, Parks Professional, Honorary and Fellow. Members are bound by a Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct; and are required to engage in Continuing Professional Development. ILI is a registered as a full Association member of IFLA Europe (International Federation of Landscape Architects).
The ILI aims to:
- Set standards of excellence in the fields of Landscape Planning, Landscape Design and Landscape Management.
- Encourage and facilitate the Continued Professional Development of its members.
- Increase public and societal awareness of the profession of Landscape Architecture, of its practitioners and their work in academia, public and private practice.
- Foster and support the interaction of Landscape Architecture with related disciplines such as engineering, architecture and planning.
- Support the development of landscape education at all levels in Ireland.
In promoting knowledge of the profession, ILI runs a series of public lectures, which are generally free and open to non-members and associated professionals. Conferences are held regularly, and the ILI Awards are held bi-annually, honouring excellence in the fields of Landscape Research and in Landscape Planning, Design and Management.
Conferences have been held regularly since the early 1990’s which stimulated debate about the profession’s position and facilitated the ongoing growth of member’s expertise. The Biannual ILI Awards ceremony highlights and rewards the achievements of the Institute’s members. ILI also makes submissions to government and state agencies, on national policy plans and frameworsk, as part of its advocacy and lobbying remit.
