Designing with Nature: Zahra’s Journey into Landscape Architecture

Zahra Dehdar is a Master’s student in Landscape Architecture at the Estonian University of Life Sciences. Originally from Iran, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering and then spent several years working in the field before deciding to continue her studies.

After gaining practical experience, Zahra felt the need to grow further and this time from a new perspective.

“Landscape architecture offers me the opportunity to explore open space design more deeply and professionally,” she explains. “I was especially interested in doing this in an international academic environment.”

Choosing Estonia as a study destination

Her decision to study in Estonia came somewhat unexpectedly. She first heard about the university through a friend, but after researching both the programme and the country, she became convinced it was the right choice.

“Estonia is very rich in forests and green environments,” Zahra says. “It feels like the ideal place to study landscape architecture.”

Naine seisab maali kõrval

Study experience and practical learning

She describes her study experience in three words: inspiring, supportive and beautiful. While the programme includes a strong theoretical foundation, it is complemented by practical elements such as design projects each semester and a compulsory internship.

“For me, it is a good balance between theory and practice,” she says.

Zahra is currently developing her skills through both academic work and practical experience. She has completed an internship in a landscape architecture office in Iran, allowing her to connect her studies with real-world practice. At the same time, the international nature of the programme adds another important dimension to her learning.

“Studying with people from different countries is very enriching,” she explains. “You learn to listen to different perspectives, and you realise how much people’s backgrounds influence the way they see the world.”

Life in Tartu and everyday impressions

Life in Tartu has become an important part of her experience. She describes the city as a place that offers both a high quality of life and a welcoming atmosphere.

“Supportive professors, kind people, clean air, and a safe environment: all of these make studying here very comfortable,” she says.

What has surprised her most are the small, everyday moments, especially from her first days in Estonia.

“I remember waking up shortly after arriving here and looking out of my window,” Zahra recalls. “There was a clear sky with soft, cotton-like clouds, as if they were greeting me good morning. I could hear birds and the wind in the trees.”

For her, it is not just the landscape, but the atmosphere of everyday life that stands out. The colorful houses, the quiet surroundings, and even simple details – like baskets of apples left outside people’s homes – reflect a sense of calmness, kindness, and generosity.

“These small moments,” she says, “are some of the most meaningful parts of my experience in Estonia.”

Personal approach and advice for future students

Zahra approaches her studies with a positive mindset. She believes that challenges are a natural part of the journey and that staying flexible helps make even difficult situations more meaningful.

She recommends the Landscape Architecture programme to students who are motivated, creative, and passionate about working with nature.

“This programme is for those who want to learn with purpose,” she says, “and who are ready to grow both professionally and personally.”