Real estate, terrorism and secure design: Implications for landscape architecture

This thesis examines security and design in commercial real estate and the role that is played by designers and landscape architects. Included is an examination of the threats of terrorists and the possibilities of securing spaces as well as a look at issues facing building owners. Also included is an examination of the different ways that buildings can be secured.; In addition, the topic of risk management is examined as well as how security affects insurance. A series of interviews was conducted to test the conventional wisdom of the review of literature as compared to the real world of commercial real estate. The interviews were conducted with property managers, asset managers and development managers for retail and commercial properties in major markets. Finally, risk management and insurance information was reviewed. This study concludes with a summary of the findings and the implications these findings have for designers and landscape architects.