Design, Then Build

Why do you think they call it landscape architecture? It is no different than any other home construction or improvement project. It begins with an idea and a budget. Then you consult the experts - architects, contractors, and designers - to develop the plan and design. And, of course, there is always a set of permits and approvals to be obtained.

In addition to the architectural and design aspects, landscaping requires a working knowledge of soils, mulches, lawns, woodworking, stone work, mortar, concrete and asphalt, water, drainage, night lighting, and irrigation, not to mention the mathematics required to calculate any of the preceding. The plans for your project must be every bit as detailed and accurate as any other construction project. Do you know the height of the pergola and the thickness of its beams? Pressure-treated or cedar? The size of the patio, the paver style and color? Got a permit for those walls? You need a well-thought-out set of plans, approved by all, before beginning any landscape project.

Once you find a firm you are comfortable with, their staff will produce scaled drawings based on your budget, your home's character, and your wishes. The design offers a bird's-eye view of the placement of features and plantings, and the crew reads and interprets those plans as they build. Firms that do not charge for this work usually hide the cost somewhere in the estimate. Outdoor Design Build credits 100% of the design fee back should you contract with us, because we view the design phase as a work of creative art - and because the mathematical and geometrical precision of the plan is crucial to its implementation.

Pointers

• Determine your budget, keeping in mind that the best price is not necessarily the best quality. To afford top quality, consider doing things in phases.
• From the initial call through the design phase to installation, the process can take months. Keep that in mind as you plan your next project.
• Find a reputable designer or architect. Ask around, and pick two or three candidates.
• Meet. First meetings cost nothing but give you a chance to size up the representative and look over their portfolio. Take your time here.
• Commit to the design phase.
• Review and adjust the finished plans. Once adjustments and final renderings are available, the numbers for the project are visible to everyone.
• Become familiar with the pieces of your project - read, research, and ask questions about what is being constructed.