Landscape Design
A buildable vision, grounded in clarity
Landscape design translates ideas, site realities, and long-term goals into a cohesive, executable plan. This service is intended for clients who are ready to move beyond concept and require a coordinated design that can be priced, permitted, and built with confidence.
For homeowners and property managers planning to build within the next one to two years, Landscape Design establishes alignment between vision, budget, and timeline while reducing uncertainty during permitting and construction. Builders and project teams benefit from clear documentation that supports accurate pricing, permitting, efficient coordination, and smooth execution in the field.
Our design process balances creativity with practicality, ensuring aesthetics, constructability, and performance are considered together from the outset.
What’s Included?
Landscape Design services are tailored to the scope and complexity of your project and may include:
- Design meetings and revisions to refine layout, materials and planting intent
- A base map documenting existing, as-built site conditions
- A scaled plan view illustrating spatial organization, circulation, materials, and other key elements
- Materials and planting schedules outlining major components of the design
- A color planting plan or visual rendering supporting decision-making
Optional Design Enhancements
Depending on your project, design services may also include:
- Three-dimensional landscape modeling
- Full-color renderings derived from the 3D model
- Video fly-throughs to visualize spatial relationships and human-scale experience
- Coordinated utility planning, including electrical & lighting, irrigation, and drainage
- Rainwater management design, including rain gardens, bioretention planters, or cistern systems
The Result
Clients Receive:
- A clear visual framework that allows them to fully understand and evaluate the design before construction begins
- Construction-ready documentation that supports accurate pricing, permitting, and execution
- A shared reference point that aligns all stakeholders around design intent, budget parameters, timeline expectations, and project goals
A Note on Implementation
Many clients choose to proceed with full design-build installation, while others work with a preferred contractor or implement their project in phases. Landscape Design provides a strong foundation for either path, and can be paired with our Landscape Project Management services when continuity through construction is desired.
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?
What happens if conditions change during construction?
Do you work on smaller projects, or only large landscapes?
Do you offer landsape design Seattle homeowners can implement in phases?
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.
