The Preliminaries
A landscape designer knows the importance of having a landscape plan before sticking a shovel into the ground. Whether you have need of a commercial landscape or residential building project, there are many facets and functions that need to be thought out ahead of time.
How will the property be used or where do people arrive, and how about any unsightly views that may need to be hidden? What will be the functionality of the property? Are the areas of consideration wet or dry, sunny or shady? Is the preference a continued transition from indoor to outdoor living spaces? Are there grade changes that need to be done and what elevations are to be used? Errors in grading or elevation can be costly.
A well thought out landscape plan considers the changes that occur in the lifecycle of a landscape. A master plan can establish, as well as benefit, your short term and long term goals.
Consider The Design
Simply by adding hardscape or landscape to a structured area does not create a balance of design.
Often, a critical component of achieving an effective design is maximizing the amount of usable space. Consider the entire area available to you before you design any elements, even if there is only one area you are currently tackling. Will the new design areas have a seasonal mix of interest or only be enjoyed mainly through summer and fall? Should those areas incorporate special visual interest, landscape elements like evergreen trees or building structures? How about privacy? What about an ornamental water feature or a garden path that leads to a private sitting area? At the bare minimum, you should have a master plan. Our visionaries will create one specifically for you.
Budgeting
If price is a factor, then you should definitely get a landscape plan!
One of the greatest benefits of having a landscape design drawn up for your home is the ability to phase in a project over several years without having to remember what was talked about or included in the design. A landscape design plan lays out all the ideas on paper, from beginning to end, and allows you to set financial goals to budget ahead of time for the project.
What is your budget? Budget determines everything, from a simple layout to complex design. It determines the selection of quantity and size of plant materials. It sets a priority on the landscape portion of the overall installation cost. Example: a 1 quart container versus a 5 gallon container planting will provide a great deal of difference in how your landscape will look at finalization. Ask yourself whether you wish to wait five or ten years for the full design effect, or do you want an affective landscape within a year or so? Do you want a patio, or a patio with a pergola and an outdoor fireplace? How about specific areas dedicated to a particular usage? It is critical to know up-front these answers before proceeding with a realistic plan and proposal.
Final Note
By following these simple tips, we can create an individualized design you’ll love for years to come. Your home says a lot about you! Let’s make a lasting impression! Call us today at 908-665-2184 to learn more about our landscape design services, and to schedule your free consultation!
