Are you thinking about updating your existing landscape or looking for more ways to enjoy your back yard, or getting ready to plant for the first time ever?  If so, you may want to consider consulting a professional landscape designer before you get started.  Don't be intimidated and don't think your project is too small.  Just give us a call it's easy and fun!

Here's how it works....

Call Grieder's and ask to set up a consultation with one of our designers.  If you have some idea of the scope of your project or goals let us know then.  It may determine which designer is assigned to your project.  Each designer at Grieder's has their own style and areas of special interest.  Matching designer to client is an important first step.

You will then speak with a designer to discuss your project.  Don't worry if you don't really know what you want, that's why we are here.   Just let us know the basics ie. If you're looking to redo the front, put in a patio, redesign the back yard or add trees for shade.  The designer will then set up a time to come out to your house and meet with you to discuss the project.

Usually the initial consultation will take about ½ to 1 hour.  If you have ideas or photos from books, magazines, websites, or catalogues this is a good time to discuss those.  If you have no ideas, that's ok too.  The designer will just ask you a lot of questions and make a lot of suggestions.  If you are going to do the final design and work yourself you will want to take some notes as you and the designer walk around and talk about the possibilities.  If you want the designer to prepare a plan, they will take the notes as well as measure property dimensions and take photos.  If you have a budget or price range for the project let the designer know before they start. 

The designer will enter your site dimensions onto the computer and prepare the design.  The final plan will indicate location, sizes and shapes of patios, gardens, walls etc.  All plants and materials will be identified.  Once the plan is complete you will meet with the designer again.   The designer will go over the plan or plans and get your feed back.  At this time costs may also be discussed. Depending on the scope of the project, this may be the only meeting necessary.  If you like the plan, great!  A contract can be prepared for installation or you are free to take the plans and install yourself.  If changes need to be made, the designer will make the revisions.  You may or may not need to meet with the designer again.  Some projects are quick and easy, others take several revisions to get exactly right.  The whole process may take anywhere from a week to a month or more, depending on the time of year and scope of project.

Working with a landscape designer will save time, money and improve your results.

They know the plants and materials.  They can choose plants that grow best, look great together, grow to the appropriate size for the space and help with advice regarding required maintenance.  The designer will know what materials will best fit your needs and perform and look great.  They can also help with budgets for the project.  Plant and material costs and quantities are easily calculated from the computer generated design and database.  They can plan for phasing in the project over a one, two or more year period.  They will know where to start and in what order it makes sense to complete components of the project.  When working with a landscape designer and landscape plan you are less likely to buy too many plants, plants that are not appropriate for your space, and inferior or inappropriate materials.  

The bottom line is that a professional landscape designer can greatly enhance your landscaping experience.  You'll save money and time, the project will turn out great the first time and hopefully you'll have some fun in the process. 

Check out our website to view our THE DESIGN AND CONSULTATION brochure and to MEET our landscape designers.