.jpg)
If you own property, you basically own a piece of dirt. That sounds much less exciting than it actually is. Dirt can be landscaped, and a landscape can be a place where your family creates core memories. An oasis from the stresses of life. A business investment that holds value. Even a work of art.
Maybe you’re ready to do some landscaping and finally get the most out of the space you own. It could be as simple as a trip to the hardware store to buy some potted plants. Often, though, the vision is much bigger than that, and some planning is required. Let’s talk about your different options.
Do It Yourself
This is a good option if you are doing something basic, you have extra time, and you’re quite good at learning new things. It’s a great option if you are an experienced landscaper. It is also the most affordable way to go.
However, if you’re new to all this and you’re hoping for a significant transformation to your outdoor space, you may run into some pitfalls. Are those pretty plants at the local nursery compatible with each other? Are they suited to the sunlight available where you want to plant them? What about water run-off and the slope of the landscape?
There are so many different soils, turfs, and watering systems available, the choices can get overwhelming. The last thing you want is a yard full of plants that won’t grow, sprinklers that flood, water features that mold, or paths that crack and shift over time. Especially if you’ve invested significant money into purchasing the materials.
So, you could hire a landscape designer.
Landscape Designers
Landscape designers will come alongside you and make sure your plan makes sense. You’re still responsible for the actual landscape work, or hiring a landscaper, but a designer can give you direction and knowledge.
Designers may have training in horticulture, but they are not required to have a specific degree or license. Many are self-taught or have taken special courses. They typically focus on smaller-scale projects such as residential gardens. Their work often emphasizes aesthetic elements and plant selection.
Although working with a designer may give you a gorgeous plan and help you avoid some rookie mistakes, they may not be experienced in larger, more complex projects involving structures, rock formations, water features, or other installations. Designers aren’t always aware of engineering issues, or environmental and regulatory considerations.
Is it possible your project could benefit from a landscape architect, rather than just a designer?
Landscape Architects
This will be the most expensive option, but the extra investment can pay off. Landscape architects typically hold a degree from an accredited program. This education includes comprehensive training in design, ecology, and site planning. They are usually involved in higher-end projects, involving stonework, trees, water features, ecological planning, multi-terraced landscapes, or even commercial properties. Their designs involve considerations of drainage, grading, and working with engineers to see the project through.
Architects must be licensed to practice, which requires passing the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE) and meeting continuing education requirements in some states, so you know you are working with an expert. Incidents of scams or shoddy designs are minimized by these requirements. The last thing you want is a design that the actual builders or landscapers can't implement efficiently and affordably.
Which brings us to one of our favorite options.
Architect/Contractor Integration
An integration like this involves both the landscape architect who makes the plans and the contractor who will install the project. They work together. This may sound costly, but actually, it ends up saving money in the long run if you want a professional design. Here’s why—when the architect and the builder work together, the architect can paint a picture of the landscape aesthetic, but leave the construction documents and details to the contractor. That way, the client pays less because the plans are typically more affordable and efficient to install.
By following an integrated model, you tap into the creative knowledge of the architect, but you get the nuts and bolts experience of the contractor through the whole process. You save money, and you end up with beautiful plans your contractor respects.
If this option interests you, Boise Landscape Design offers this kind of integrated model.
Working Directly With A Contractor
Maybe you already know exactly what you want your landscape to look like. Maybe you even have the horticultural and design knowledge to plan it yourself. But you need help actually building your vision. You can bypass a designer altogether and work directly with a contractor. This is probably the most affordable option if you’re not planning to DIY your installations.
For a list of vetted and trustworthy contractors in the Treasure Valley, consider checking out the Boise Landscaping Network. You can sort the contractors by the type of contractor, service area, desired budget for your project, and services they offer. And you can rest easy knowing they are part of an accountable business network.
Getting To The End Result
However you get there, investing in your property always pays off. Whether you want to put in the time and research to DIY, or you’re ready for some help, you’ll be grateful you created something beautiful that will last for years to come
Comments