Phase One - Site Inventory and Analysis
The first step in developing a thoughtful landscape design plan involves gathering essential information. This phase includes a detailed site inventory and analysis. As a designer, I will need to compile comprehensive observations regarding the following aspects:
Site location
Character of the surrounding neighborhood
Zoning ordinances
Building codes
Topography
Drainage
Soil
Vegetation
Climate
Utilities
Views
When necessary, soil samples should be collected and sent for analysis to ensure the right plants are matched to the appropriate locations.
It is crucial for me to become intimately familiar with the site, gaining a thorough understanding of its character, challenges, and opportunities. The more knowledge I have about the specifics of the site, the easier and more accurately decisions can be made during the design process.
As I gather information for the site and spend time discussing all the wishlist items for the plan with you, I will communicate solutions and produce preliminary drawings along with base maps. A baseline will be established, setting the stage for us to move forward into the design phase.
Phase Two: Preliminary Design and Concept Plan
In this stage, I explore different organizational options for the functional layout, before selecting the most effective or preferred concept that we work through together. This marks the first attempt to outline the overall design layout on paper. I create a series of functional diagrams to depict how all major spaces and elements interact with each other, the house, and the surrounding site. The preliminary design is what I consider a “living document”. It transforms ideas from loose, freehand sketches and diagrammatic symbols within the functional diagrams, into a three-dimensional space featuring distinct shapes and forms. The outcome is an illustrative preliminary plan that can be presented to you for feedback as a concept, prior to advancing with the master plan. Additionally, an initial planting palette is introduced during this phase. Seasonality and color palettes are refined and communicated, laying the groundwork for a more detailed palette to be developed later.
Phase Three: Landscape Master Plan
The master plan closely mirrors the preliminary design, integrating revisions made in response to your feedback on the initial concept. This plan serves as the final and detailed design solution, while still allowing for modifications as it evolves. It includes clear communication regarding plant placement, complete with labels and a planting schedule. A thorough planting palette is provided in both digital and printed formats. All digital files feature a detailed description of each selected plant, ensuring that you can enjoy an immersive and informative experience if you wish. This landscape plan will also include construction drawings as needed or requested.
Phase Four: Implementation
In this stage, we are prepared to implement the concepts outlined in the landscape master plan. Each project, budget, and timeline will present its own unique approach. Typically, the implementation process unfolds over several seasons and is continuously evolving. I coordinate with contractors and tradespeople to manage the construction elements of the design, such as patios, pergolas, and walkways, while I oversee these activities on-site. More often than not, I also handle the planting installation to ensure that any substitutions are suitable and to maintain high standards for plant quality and planting practices. Generally, the implementation timeline involves completing the rough work of carving out new beds and planting trees and shrubs in the fall, followed by the installation of perennials in the spring, and then designing for and planting bulbs the following autumn. In all situations, hardscaping is finalized before any living materials are introduced.
Phase Five: Garden and Landscape Management
The establishment phase of a new garden is a crucial time for ensuring its future success. During the 1-3 year establishment period, I lovingly tend to each garden I design and build. A schedule for monitoring, weeding, and watering is implemented and followed closely. Adjustments and enhancements are also made; the garden evolves with carefully selected plants and ideas that build upon the original design. It’s an exhilarating phase as we watch the garden flourish into a well-cared-for and fully realized space. For clients who prefer not to invest in ongoing care and management, a comprehensive digital maintenance package is available.
