Which factor is essential for evaluating the success of a landscape project?

The long-term maintenance and adaptability of a landscape project are crucial for evaluating its success because a well-designed landscape should not only meet aesthetic and functional goals at the outset but also remain sustainable and relevant over time. If a landscape is designed considering its future maintenance needs and the ability to adapt to changing conditions—such as environmental factors, growth of plants, and user needs—it is more likely to achieve lasting value.

Evaluating success solely based on factors like the frequency of client meetings or initial design costs focuses more on the process and expenditure rather than the outcome and longevity of the project. While these aspects are important to a degree, they do not directly measure the landscape's performance or effectiveness in the long term. In contrast, a project that has been effectively planned for maintenance and adaptability will likely provide ongoing satisfaction, utility, and beauty, which are the ultimate goals of any landscape project.