Greetings Garden Enthusiasts!
As I reflect on 2011 and look forward to 2012, I’m working on what seems to be a fairly good quantity of projects. Our 2011 season turned out to be just nicely ahead of 2010. As I’m working on designs for possible projects for 2012, I’m cautiously optimistic. While many projects that I’m working on are very budget driven, some are not. It’s fun to break out of the budget mold and “dream big” once in a while. When I’m working on designs I enjoy coming up with a plan that is based on every want and desire combined with a dramatic flair. I’ve found that my best projects start with a plan that’s not based on just a number. Here are a few guidelines for good landscape design.
Come up with the design first and then work backwards: Projects can almost always be spread out over time or adjusted by changing individual items within the plan. With that being said, you have to keep project design realistic and affordable. It’s really helpful to have a rough budget and adapt the design to meet the numbers. With that in mind you have to be creative yet find cost effective solutions to pull it off. Maybe there are items that can be re-used or different ways to get similar results.
Make sure every stone gets turned over: When you are dealing with multi-faceted designs make sure you know or are kept aware of what’s current and most cost-effective. Call your subcontractors and suppliers to double check. Maybe you don’t have to remove all the trees or pour a footing. Maybe there’s a more cost effective paving surface, less expensive plant material or a different way of doing something.
Prioritize Phases: Figure out ahead of time what items are needed initially and what things can wait. Things like small plantings, ground cover and lighting might have to wait to be sure primary items can be installed in the proper sequence.
Consider Neighbors: Plan construction at a time that’s the least offensive regarding your neighbors. Plan lakefront projects for early spring or fall. Keep your worksites as clean and dust free as possible. Organize your materials so the job doesn’t look messy. Clean off streets.
Make Sure the Design fits the Project: Use materials that are true to the project. Like brick or stone that matches the home’s exterior or trees and plants that are native to the area. Choose foliage and flower colors that complement the home’s colors.
As residential landscape design and build professionals, it’s imperative to have our designs follow function, so when the project is done it’s not only beautiful, but it’s very enjoyable and easy to use.
Until next time,
Mike