A case study is a well-documented and systematic examination of the process, decision-making and outcomes of a landscape project or issue that can inform future practice, policy, theory and/or education.

- Mark Francis, "A Case Study Method for Landscape Architecture," 1999

The Landscape Architecture Foundation's Land and Community Design Case Study Series consists of analytical publications by contemporary scholars and practitioners about topical issues and actual places in which design offers holistic solutions to economic, social, and environmental challenges. The goal of the series is to provide a legacy of rigorous, in-depth research and critical thinking that will advance enlightened planning and development in the classroom, in practice, and in policy.

As one of its highest priorities, LAF is developing the Land and Community Design Case Studies Series to show how design provides holistic solutions to economic, social and environmental problems and to meet the following objectives:

• to meet the public's demand for more livable communities and improved environmental preservation and protection
• to inform public policy and support community and environmental advocates
• to enhance the skill and knowledge base of the planning and design professions

To achieve broad coverage and maximum impact, the series is based on a comprehensive framework of three unique study types: 1) issue-based case studies, 2) site-based case studies, and 3) hypothetical case studies for teaching. By using this three-prong approach, LAF hopes to provide professionals and their clients with timely information on emerging issues and innovative projects, and to integrate the case study method into design education, thereby training current and future designers and policymakers with a systematic documentation and research method.

Support for the Land and Community Design Case Study Series is provided by the JJR Research Fund, which supports applied research that explores the complex interrelationship of social, physical, economic and environmental forces that comprise sustainable design and development; the CLASS Fund Ralph Hudson Environmental Fellowship, which supports research in landscape change, preservation and stewardship and the connection between people and landscapes; and the AILA Yamagami Hope Fellowship.  The William Penn Foundation, which is dedicated to efforts that deepen connections to nature and community, also provided support to the series.