Do current landscape security practices provide sufficient protection to support building sustainability in the event of a terrorist attack? By exploring the relative effectiveness of current landscape security practices and methodologies, this thesis proposes to provide the landscape architect with sufficient background to define security objectives; participate in vulnerability assessments and design functional solutions while maintaining an open, aesthetically pleasing environment. This research thesis supports the study of site security as a discipline within the landscape architecture profession.

Recent events have resulted in a rush to install various types of permanent and temporary security measures such as barriers, barricades, surveillance systems, etc., in the landscape. Typically, the placement of security components in the landscape has resulted in negative visible impacts on the environment, reinforcing an image of a siege, or fortress, mentality. This study will examine whether these security components, as currently employed, are effective deterrents against terrorist activities.

This thesis will provide landscape architects with a broad understanding of security objectives and design options. Security objectives can only be met if the client, engineers, architects and landscape architects work together as a team. This thesis will provide the landscape architect with sufficient knowledge concerning security vulnerability, facility blast survivability, and emergency response capabilities to coordinate site security requirements with the design team. A thorough knowledge of security component capabilities and facility site vulnerability will assist the landscape architect in making design decisions which are both functional and aesthetic, while meeting security objectives.