Exterior Consultation

Clarity Before Commitment

Not sure where to start with your landscape project? The Exterior Consultation is a strategic first step for property owners who want informed direction before investing in full design or construction. This service provides expert perspective, realistic expectations, and a clear path forward.

For homeowners and property managers in the early planning phase, this consultation offers timely insight into scope, material options, costs, and timelines, helping decisions be made efficiently and with confidence. For builders and contractors, it streamlines coordination for Seattle landscaping projects while offering a premium value-add for clients.

What’s Included?

A complementary 15-minute right-fit phone call
A 60-minute on-site consultation (scheduled after right-fit screening)
A concise summary report or visual reference document, delivered as a PDF

Optional Focus Areas:

Depending on your project, the consultation may include guidance on:

Project scope clarification and preliminary phasing guidance
Permit considerations and early insight into requirements, costs, and timelines
Exterior materials & color palette consultation, including house paint (for landscape clients)
Specialized, plant-focused guidance for existing landscape (residential clients)

(Additional services may be scoped separately when appropriate.)

Investment: Starting at $295

Consultation fees may be credited toward future design services if you choose to proceed.

The Result

Clients Leave with:

FAQ

Do I need a landscape designer, or can I work directly with a contractor?

Many clients come to us after realizing that working with a contractor alone can leave important decisions unresolved. A landscape designer helps clarify priorities, align the design with your budget and timeline, and ensure the finished landscape reflects your vision – not just a series of off-the-shelf installations. Starting with design often leads to smoother construction, fewer surprises, and a more beautiful end result.

How much does it cost to hire a landscape designer?

While we don’t offer one-size-fits-all pricing, our design services are best suited to clients planning thoughtful, comprehensive landscape investments rather than quick fixes or piecemeal solutions. Design-only engagements typically begin in the low thousands, while full design-build projects require a more substantial investment to support proper planning, materials, and installation.

An Exterior Consultation helps determine whether your scope and budget are well aligned before moving forward, giving you clarity around options, priorities and next steps.

How far ahead should I start the planning process?

Ideally, landscape design begins several months before construction, allowing ample time for design concept exploration, planning, permitting (when required), and coordination with architects, engineers, and builders. That said, we also work with clients on shorter timelines and can help determine what’s realistic based on your schedule.

Starting the conversation early simply provides more flexibility and clarity, making it easier to align expectations and move forward with confidence.

Can you work with my architect, builder or preferred contractor?

Yes! We regularly collaborate with architects, builders and landscape contractors. Clear documentation and communication are central to our process, helping all members of the project team work toward a shared vision with clarity.

Do you offer landscape installation, or design only?

We offer both. Many clients engage us for design only, others for project management during construction, and some for full turnkey landscape installation services. We’ll help you determine the most effective approach based on your goals, team, and level of involvement.

What if my project doesn’t fit neatly into one service?

That’s common. Not every project requires a full design or installation package. Our Custom Services are designed for nuanced situations: complex sites, phased projects or targeted expertise – while maintaining the same clarity and process-driven approach as our core services.

How do you handle budgets during the design and build process?

Budget is an important design constraint, not an afterthought. We work to align scope, materials, and phasing with your investment goals early in the process. During construction, our approach gives clients confidence that budget decisions are informed and intentional.

What happens if conditions change during construction?

Unforeseen conditions are a reality of construction. Our role during installation and project management is to help navigate those moments thoughtfully, protecting design intent while identifying practical, cost-conscious solutions. Clients remain informed and involved throughout the process, so decisions can be made calmly and with confidence.

Do you work on smaller projects, or only large landscapes?

We work on a range of project types, from focused garden improvements to comprehensive landscape transformations. The best way to determine fit is through an initial conversation, where we can understand your goals and recommend an appropriate path forward.

Do you offer landsape design Seattle homeowners can implement in phases?

Yes. We regularly work with Seattle and metro area homeowners on phased landscape projects that unfold over time. Whether due to budget, permitting or long-term planning considerations, a phased approach allows landscape design to be implemented thoughtfully and strategically. During the design process, we help establish a clear framework so that each phase builds toward a cohesive overall vision and an enduring landscape.

How do we get started?

The first step is a complimentary 15-minute right-fit phone call. From there, an Exterior Consultation is often the most effective way to gain clarity and determine next steps. Our goal is to make the process clear, approachable, and aligned with how you want to move forward.

Ready to See What’s Possible for your Outdoor Space?

If what you’ve read resonates, the next step is simple. Let’s talk through your goals, explore the potential of your property, and give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence. No pressure, no commitments – just a thoughtful conversation about creating a landscape that feels beautifully aligned with how you want to live.