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Most of us want a useful and beautiful yard, but, do we know how to get it? Oh, sure we can call landscape contractors for estimates. If you called three landscape contractors for estimates you'd get at least three different ideas, themes and prices. It's kinda of like a throw of the dice, if you're lucky you'll get most of what you want. Obtaining a well written plan is of greater value than people give it credit. If approached correctly, your landscape plan will explain exactly what you want, cost effective use of your hard earned money and include details how to create it. You wouldn't build a house without a written plan, nor should you proceed with any major landscaping without a written plan. Written landscape plans will deliver the following benefits: +Increase your properties' value +Create and enhance curb appeal +Enlarge your outdoor living space +Utilize the best use of your property +Cost effectively plan a landscape you'll love +Create spaces to relax, play and entertain in +Enjoy a retreat destination in your back yard +Clear communication of your vision to contractors bidding on or installing your project +Do it your self and find additional help to do parts of your plan you don't want to do +Conserve water, reduce energy bills +Plant with the right plant in the right place +Enjoy growing your own food, add edibles to the landscape +Create a pet friendly garden +Create a child friendly garden +Attract birds and butterflies and add fragrance to your garden +Install in phases as money and time becomes available +Create privacy +Facilitate homeowners associations’ design review process with a professionally drawn plan +Plan your outdoor space in consideration of our climate You may be thinking, “O.K. I'm convinced, I need a written landscape plan, so how can I obtain one? You’re an ambitious homeowner looking to upgrade the landscape and design of your property. Equipped with the necessary funds and an arsenal of ideas, you set out to create your vision. There are endless plant and landscape options, you can’t seem to translate your vision to reality and your budget has dwindled long before project begins. Obtaining a great landscape plan requires knowledge of landscape elements and the skill to visualize “putting it all together”. Your plan should be detailed on a map of your property to include existing features (such as house footprint, retaining walls,walkways, patios, existing trees and plants to remain, and other important features), hardscape changes, structures (sheds, arbors,etc), additional plants, and outdoor lighting. There should be a written planting schedule including common and botanical name with size and quantities. There should be notes detailing things such as retaining walls, irrigation and drainage. See htpp://www.americathebeautiful.com for examples. “Wow, there is a lot to consider for my landscape plan! Maybe I should just let a contractor figure it out for me.” This is what a lot of people think and sometimes it works out O.k., but, more often it doesn't work well for the consumer. It is kinda like rolling a roullette wheel and hoping for the best. Would you risk thousands of dollars to a throw of the dice? “Hiring a professional landscape designer could be one of the smartest investment decisions you’ll ever make. Designers trained and qualified in the principles of garden design and horticulture can help their clients avoid the costly mistakes that can turn the dream of an outdoor haven into a landscape nightmare. Professional landscape designers are skilled practitioners of fundamental design concepts – proportion, unity, balance, perspective, color, texture – that can bring about a fully integrated design. They have a comprehensive knowledge of plants so that you get the right plant that grows to the right size for the right place in your garden. They are skilled communicators and planners who work with contractors, vendors, local governments and others to complete successful projects. Professional landscape designers are also aware of our natural environment and promote sustainable practices whenever possible. They are inspired by the creative process, by great design, and most of all, by their clients’ needs, wants and dreams.” (APLD). “Landscape design is important because all plants have different cultural requirements. It is best to plant these where they will thrive with the lowest impact on the surrounding environment. It is also important to create functional, pleasing living spaces. Having a strong background in construction and horticulture allow these spaces to become a reality. Landscape designers are more involved in Horticulture than landscape architects, and usually create spaces that actually work in the real world as opposed to computer world. “ (Wiki) Landscape professionals always recommend that a written landscape plan is made before any landscaping work begins. A plan reduces stress, saves money and delivers what you really want. For more information contact Jeff Naramor at 360-828-8597 or email jeff@americathebeautifullandscaping.com. Landscape Design, landscape portfolio
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