DESIGN


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LANDSCAPE DESIGN

WHAT IS A LANDSCAPE DESIGN?
A landscape design is the culmination of all the steps listed below in most cases. For smaller projects the information required is less involved than a larger project, however we can not design a landscape without following these steps. Upon completion of the design phase the design or plan is the blueprint for the installation process.

NEEDS ANALYSIS The process begins with a discussion between our clients and our designer. The designer asks a series of questions to create a program for the design. This is a very important step in the process to ensure the project is successful. Typical questions include: Do you entertain often? For how many people? Are you planning any additions to your home? Are you considering installing a pool in the future? Do you have any favorite plants? Favorite colors? Do you need additional privacy or would you like to block any views? Do you have adequate space for parking? Do you have a budget in mind for the project? Are there any drainage problems?

SITE ANALYSIS The next step is for the designer to analyze the property and develop a base map. Depending on the project this may start with obtaining a plot plan. The house, existing vegetation, patios, driveways, and other site elements are measured and evaluated. Views both into and out of the property are considered. Digital photographs are taken to document existing site conditions.

CONCEPT PLAN From the site analysis a base map is done that includes the existing site elements including buildings, vegetation to remain, existing hardscape elements etc. The designer then begins to develop the concept plan. The concept plan combines the information gathered during the needs analysis and blends that with the existing site elements. Our experienced designers begin to work through the various aspects of the project making sure that the final design comes together cohesively. After the concept plan is complete our designer meets with you to present the concept plan and solicit your feed back.

FINAL PLAN After the review of the concept plan revisions are made and a final plan is presented along with a proposal to complete the landscape project.

Click the plans to enlarge.

IS THERE A CHARGE FOR THE LANDSCAPE DESIGN?
Yes. There is a charge for our design services of $70.00 per hour. There is no charge for the initial meeting. After we have had time to discuss the project we will ask you to sign a design contract. We do ask for a retainer when the contract is signed. The amount of the retainer and the final design fee is based on the scope of the work.

DO WE GIVE FREE ESTIMATES?
We do not charge for proposals. If you have a plan or the project does not require one we are happy to provide you with a quote.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO ESTABLISH A BUDGET?
As with many construction projects the decisions about size, materials, and scope of work effect the total cost of a project. Complete landscape projects that include patios, walkways, lighting, planting, etc. can cost as much as 20-25% of the value of your home, working with existing plantings, patios, etc. can substantially reduce the cost of the project. We do the best we can to evaluate the needs analysis against your budget but we cannot give an accurate price for the project until the design work is complete.

What if the cost to implement the project is more than I have budgeted? There are a number of ways to accommodate this scenario: First is to install the project in phases to assure that goals and desires are met. Second would be to finance the project with a home equity loan, again meeting the goals while getting the project complete. The third option is to design the project to meet the budget specifications.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO DEVELOP A LANDSCAPE DESIGN?
A concept plan can take two to three weeks to develop after the design contract is signed. The final plan may take an additional two weeks depending on the revisions required. The time frame is also dependent on the time of year. The earlier we can begin planning the more likely we can begin and finish the work when you desire. Spring and Fall are traditionally very busy times for us so it may take longer to complete the design work.

START HERE
Please take a minute to fill out this online form to contact us. We will review the information and get back to you. This form is also available on the services page of our site.

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Garrett Churchill Inc. 1642 Old York Road Abington, PA 19001
Licensed Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor PA001579

Phone: 215-657-9160 | Fax: 215-657-9163
Email: info@garrettchurchill.com