Landscape Design Process

The process usually begins by a phone conversation, email or discussion on a neighboring job site, in which general inquiries are made and an appointment for a consultation is set to obtain more information.  At the initial consultation the project is discussed at length and it is determined if a design is necessary.  If a design contract is signed than we will take measurements and other site information while on site to start the project.

The second site visit is to take field notes, measurements, photos and sketches if a design contract is signed after the initial meeting. This usually takes 1-2 hours, plus travel time.

Back at the office, the design involves taking all the information and client’s desires and processing it into a creative and aesthetic solution that meets the client’s objectives and budget with appropriate and available materials, drafting a comprehensive and understandable plan for presentation and installation, as well as estimating a range for installation costs. Design time varies depending on size and complexity of the project, but it usually takes from several days to 3 weeks depending on how many projects we are working on at the time. Our busiest time of the year is the spring and we recommend to residential clients, who want something installed in early spring, to contact us about a design over the winter, to be able to complete the process before contractors are booked up with spring installations.

Once the design is complete, we present the design to the client.  This includes an explanation of our color plan, photos of the plants specified, and material samples for selection if appropriate. This can take place on site or in the office, and allows for discussion time and revision considerations, if requested. This meeting usually takes 1 to 2 hours. 

If a revision is required, it is taken back to the office for further consideration, revised, and returned to the client for their approval.   Usually this takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on complexity of the revisions requested.  Once the plan is final and if the client desires, we will present the plan to RSG Landscaping and Lawn Care and/or Land Tech Group for a written quote to install the project.  We can also help by requesting quotes from other installation contractors, if the client desires.

Allied Design can consider its work complete at this time or if the client is interested, we can remain on our hourly fee to review the installation process.  Once the design is approved and/or our work is completed, the client will be invoiced as per the signed design agreement.  If a project is lengthy, monthly or percent complete invoices will be agreed upon.

If Allied Design can be of service to you, please let us know.