Fractal Geometry for Landscape Architecture: Review of Methodologies and Interpretations

This paper presents the summary of a literature review of the methods and interpretations of fractal geometry currently used in landscape architecture. Over 40 studies were examined for their use of fractal concepts within the analysis of landscape-related elements. Although much work has been done on the quantification of landscape parameters for the purpose of visual assessments and preference predictions, the links between applied landscape design and fractal principles remain tenuous. Several methodological hurdles, such as issues of signal transformation and segmentation, as well as the inevitable questions surrounding the ecological validity of landscape surrogates still stand in the way of making fractal geometry a useful tool for landscape architects.