The Landscape Design Process

So you're looking to change the look of your property, give it a re-vamping or start from scratch.  A common question is "What does the process of landscape design involve and what happens from here?"  The process of landscape design is just that, a process that involves a good communication between client and designer and yes...time.  
The shows on television where the complete planning, design and implementation of a major landscape project happen in one weekend are quite unreal.  It is purely for the sake of cramming the entire process into a quick one-hour segment, but in reality the process one is viewing really took weeks to even months to complete.  These shows are great for showing the "process" but one must emphasize-the "process" does take time and does not happen overnight! 

When you are ready to start your project provide the designer with a survey of the property and take an inventory of the site. Try to decide what you would like the function of your site to be and think about any existing features that you would either want to keep or get rid of. The designer can help you with these decisions. Also you should be aware of your budget. Keep in mind that the project does not have to be installed all at once. Installing your landscape in phases allows you to spread out the expenses and the amount of time you commit to the project. The big picture provided by the design plan will help you prioritize the project.


The Design Process:

 Site Analysis:

The design process begins with an initial meeting with the client. The property is walked viewing the areas to be designed discussing factors such as desired function of the site, hardscape, existing plantings, lighting, watering, slope and location of utilities. The client can view samples of work so that the designer can get an idea for the style of landscape desired whether it is formal, informal, cottage style, contemporary or perhaps a combination of styles for different areas. After careful consideration of wants and needs for the location, digital photographs and careful measurements are taken of the site. The designer then gathers all the information needed for the plan through several site visits and creates a conceptual plan.

Conceptual Plan:


The designer will meet with you to review the conceptual plan. This plan will provide an overview of the project and will include a layout of functional areas, planting areas and hardscape. At this time you can further discuss any ideas you may have with your designer.


Master Plan:

Upon approval of the conceptual plan, the designer will then prepare a scaled to size master plan (or blueprint) that will show the layout of plantings and hardscape as well as a listing of plant material, sizes and quantities and specifications. Computer rendered imaging of your design may also be supplied so that you can see what your installed landscape will look like beforehand.

Implementation:

At this point you may proceed with installing your project. You may decide to hire out all or some of the elements of your project and your designer can help you with this.   The master plan will show you the overall picture so that there is no guesswork when you decide to proceed with your project. 


Home improvements should be a fun and enjoyable experience and planning ahead can take the stress out of your project.  While every designer may not follow these exact steps this article will hopefully help to give an explanation of how the process works and what one can expect.    The better the communication between you and your designer the smoother and more enjoyable your project will flow.  Enjoy planning and happy gardening!


Lee@ A Guide To Northeastern Gardening Copyright 2011 All Rights Reserved.