Having some confusion as to whether a complimentary proposal or a landscape plan is the best way to move ahead with your project? At the time of your initial consultation, we'll be happy to write up a free proposal for you. It usually takes a few days to put it together....
...and then we'll email the proposal and also send it by mail. A plan is a more methodical process, involving more time, (from two weeks to a month or more), as well as an additional investment on your part. We base your design investment on a very reasonable $65 per hour charge with a 10 hour minimum. This includes not only multiple drafted, scaled, blueprinted copies, but accurate estimates and a revision to the plan at your request. The design fee is not based upon your budget, but the overall complexity of the design. This could be related to issues involving your property measurements, the types of construction and whether your brother in law is going to be giving us advice.
Most properties will fall into the 20-40 hour range. If you are having trouble determining whether to have a complimentary estimate prepared or invest in a design plan, the following information may help:
- Choosing an estimate only for your project: Advantage: No charge, Can be prepared in 7-10days. Disadvantage: Does not graphically show you where each item is placed.
- Choosing a plan and estimate for your project: Advantage: Shows all the work to be completed. May be implemented as a "Do it Yourself" or phased project more easily. Allows a number of companies to bid the same thing. Disadvantage: Invest $65hr, minimum 10hr charge or more.
Note: One way to determine whether a landscape architectural plan might be a good value for you is to consider how long you will live in your home. Cut that time in half and assume that you will be done with all of your landscape phases within that period. Try to project how much you will have been comfortable investing in the landscape (including decks, walks and patios, etc.) by that future date.
Now, take 5% of that number, and if you can have plans prepared for 5% or less, design plans may be a good value for you. Again, please note that planning costs are not based upon your budget, but on the complexity of the project. Just being able to discuss ideas clearly with your spouse and methodically "plant the lavender on the corner of the patio" yourself during phase two has good value once you know where everything is going. All of our plans are reviewed by our on staff licensed landscape architect and include firm estimates based upon the discussed and approved budget.
To read more about establishing a simple budget, and finding out what questions to ask a garden designer, please download the "Establish a Simple Budget" document below.
