Landscaper

MARK KRETZMANN LANDSCAPER

OWNER AT LIVINGSCAPES

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE LANDSCAPING? I’ve had an affinity with and appreciation of nature from a young age. That and the creative aspect involved in design work is what drew me to the profession. In a way, choosing landscaping created a balance between working with nature, while still having all the cultural and social benefits offered by city living. Though, that aspect means less to me these days. WHAT TRAINING DID YOU UNDERGO? I did a National Diploma in Horticulture at Cape Tech and a Bachelor of Science, majoring in botany and environmental science, at UCT.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY Meeting with the staff in the morning; ensuring that the correct tools and materials are loaded for a particular project. I spend a few hours on site(s) to make sure that everyone knows their tasks for the day. The rest of the day is taken up with sourcing materials, either physically or via email, design work, and meetings regarding upcoming projects. I return to site later in the day to review productivity and make any adjustments needed.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST? The potential to design with plants. Using nature’s own colours, textures, shapes, fragrances and seasonal variations is inspiring. I’m still like a child in a sweet shop every time I visit a nursery. The creative aspect of design is also rewarding, when translated from theory to practical installation.

WHAT DON’T YOU LIKE? Standing in dog poo! Seriously though, it’s demanding at times, but I think that relates more to the responsibilities that come with owning a business, rather than the profession itself.

HURDLES YOU’VE OVERCOME? To be assertive when the occasion demands – both with staff and clients – although I always do my best to keep a client happy within the allocated budget. The management aspect is a role I didn’t foresee.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT? Working for some top clients over the years, where the design concept has dictated the budget, rather than the norm of designing within a budget. A landscaper’s dream situation. I’ve had some memorable experiences: working on two game farms, and spending 18 months working in the Seychelles.

FUTURE GOALS? To design full time and outsource the installation aspect. As far as installations go, I’d like to shift the focus more to natural restoration and rehabilitation work.

IS EXPERIENCE AS IMPORTANT AS FORMAL TRAINING? There are a number of self-taught landscapers who have been very successful. A Diploma in Horticulture, however, gives a good grounding.

IS THERE A TYPE OF PERSONALITY BEST SUITED? People who like to be outdoors! People skills are important, for managing staff and maintaining good communication with clients. The ability to think practically is also important, both on the design and installation level.