What to expect from a landscape designer?

Let's set the scenario - here is a typical designer/customer connection:

Property owner looking to invest in a well thought out landscape design contacts designer to set a consultation to review their property. Here are the next steps involved in the process of contracting a designer.

1.) Establish a scope of work. Designer reviews your property, exchanges ideas and discusses the best approach to plan your landscape.

2.) Create and sign a ‘contract to design’.

3.) Client 'property review' meeting to ensure all ideas have been reviewed.

4.) Measure all existing buildings, property lines, drive, walkways and other stationary elements.

5.) Designer will put together an initial property and overview of landscape design layout.

6.) Client/designer meeting to present and review initial landscape design concepts and a working budget which will be adjusted to meet your goals.

7.) Revisions will be completed as necessary and requested; you will meet again to review the changes. You will meet, as many times as necessary and all revisions and meetings are included.

8.) Your landscape design will be printed and will likely include: a planting list, a lighting plan, an irrigation layout, any related and agreed upon embellishments and a budget sheet that shows you what to expect each element in the completed plan should cost. You can take this plan to governing agency’s, neighbor boards and your landscape contractor to clearly show your plan.

Note: Your designer will likely know if you have the need for a structural engineer, biologist, building permits or other approval from governing agencies.

Most importantly have 'fun' planning your property "it's landscaping".

Cheers,
John Collins

Why do I need a landscape design?

Most people have a vision of what they would like to accomplish when setting out to install an outside environment for their lifestyle(s)…. They have the 'I wants' listed and they usually have a good idea of what they ‘need’ as well… but lost in the translation is a fluid and professional look that you will likely only obtain by having a plan drawn up showing these elements together topographically. A designer will help you avoid the ‘guessing as you go’ problems and ‘over budget’ dilemmas and allow for the cultivation of many great ideas and considerations (while avoiding obstacles) that take place within the design process.

Accurately measuring the site will avoid problems with function, form and create a realistic budget for your home… a designer will be able to create a plan that fits your budget and that looks well though out. This will of course make the property much more presentable and valuable. It's better than proceeding piecemeal -- and running into contracting nightmares.

Remember - a vision with a plan makes for the best results!!

Cheers,
John Collins