San Diego Landscape Designing Services
The Process: starts with meeting in person at the actual site to be improved. Some homeowners have some landscaping ideas that they want to see implemented like a swimming pool or a new deck. Others look to me for my suggestion how to make their garden more eco-friendly or "green". I will take extensive notes of our conversation and list priorities and also ask many questions as to their lifestyles and interest in gardening at this initial meeting. I'll showcase my portfolio of recent projects and even unroll a small number of finished rendered drawings as examples.
I do like to bring up the subject of a client's range of budget to make sure my design reflects their sense of investment for the end result. We will discuss the absolute priorities and the possibilities of creating a design to be implemented in phases with budget in mind. Then I typically walk a client through the stages of design, starting with site work (measuring and taking photos), creating a site plan showing all existing landscape features, and then explain my design rational behind developing two varied rough concepts to offer a range of landscaping ideas for their future yard. Once approved by a client, concepts are frequently merged into one final drawing. I'll then return to my drawing table and detail the master plan with all the elements involved. This allows both the homeowner and a landscape contractor an overview which can then be used to bid and build the new elements both hardscape and softscape involved. Lastly I'll present the final plans rendered with color and provide examples of some materials along with photos of the selected plant materials.
Clients may choose from the various options listed below:
Consultation – A two hour minimum includes a walkthrough of the site with suggestions on hardscape and or plant material, basic problem solving and improvements. We will discuss budget aspects and recommend course of action as well as contractors or other resources. A listing of plant materials and a rough sketch may be included to offer a stronger visual interpretation. This is best for a knowledgeable homeowner who needs minor assistance with their current landscape.
Conceptual Package — Starts with two rough drawings offering varied design options which are later refined to a drawing which includes detailed site work of the area drawn to scale. A plan in 2D, call outs of proposed materials, i.e. "wood or metal, flagstone, etc." Drawing to show all hardscaped areas and include a possible plant pallet. Intended for contractors to build from (however, this plans lacks sufficient detail to bid the project).
Design Development Package — Includes all details of the conceptual package. All sections, elevations, details are to be drawn for bidding purposes. All plant materials are to be listed and located. Plans to include landscape lighting, drainage and other utility notes. (Irrigation system designs are not included).
Implementation Package - Includes collecting, presenting and interpreting bids from contractor. Site visits, initial construction "kick off" meeting, 3 site visits (at critical times in the construction and or planting) with the contractor. One final site visit with client and 4 maintenance follow up visits with a punch list for a client's gardener. Optional homeowner training is offered in addition. Package offers total liaison with client with problem solving in mind. Other professionals, such as an arborist, irrigation specialist may also be brought into the team.
Designs may include: Patios, walkways, Pergolas for shade, Plantings for privacy or attracting wildlife, Water features, Decks, Retaining Walls, Fire Pits and Fireplaces. Swimming Pools and Spas, dry creek beds and natural water features. Bio-swales, cisterns and drainage. Shade Sails, Free-standing Walls, Trellis Design. Orchards, Raised Vegetable Beds, Turf Replacement.
