Ecological Approaches in Designing Neighbourhood Green Spaces As Urban Wildlife Habitat in the Klang Valley, Peninsular Malaysia
Nik Hanita Nik Mohamad

Abstract
This study examines the ecological approaches adopted by a group of landscape architects in their design of neighbourhood green spaces that have successfully in the conservation, enhancement and/or creation of wildlife habitats. The study, therefore, has sought to investigate through a combination of surveys, case studies, interviews and observations on landscape architects and residents in the Klang Valley. This study revealed the design approaches employed by landscape architects in the design phases have successfully culminated in the conservation, enhancement and/or creation of new wildlife habitats. However, there are different levels of adoption observed in the design phases of site planning, conceptual master planning, planting design and plant selection, and in the construction phase and use of green materials. The findings indicate that landscape architects who collaborated with relevant agencies, and who have the support of their clients were more effective in their design efforts. An overall positive attitude towards urban wildlife was definitely visible. The findings from the residents’ attitudes survey strongly demonstrated a selective preference towards common urban wildlife. This study also identified the main constraints impeding landscape architects from adopting landscape ecology principles in their design efforts. It is envisaged that the findings of this study will contribute to reaffirm the broad definition of ecological landscape design, and contribute to the knowledge of sustainable ecological landscape within the regime of landscape architecture.

Full Text: PDF