Unique Landscape Designs
About
I am a Landscape Designer, not a contractor, big difference! I am the equivalent of an architect to a building - in order to have the best landscape, you need to have a PLAN first before any work has begun. I design the entire landscape to scale, both in 2D (plan view) for the contractor and in 3D (looks like a photograph!) for you so you don't have to try and "visualize" what it will look like, you'll actually see it before work begins. I design everything from hardscape (non-living portion of landscape such as fences, patios, pools, etc.) to softscape (plant material) so you will have a fully complete landscape plan which you can have installed immediately, or even in "phases" if you choose to, you'll have a "master plan" so its up to you when to install.
I am a graduate of Mira Costa College and received my certification in Landscape Architecture from them in 2009 and have been working in SW Riverside county area since then, where I have been a resident for 30 years now, so very familiar with the types of plants that do and don't do well in this area.
I enjoy meeting new people and talking with them about plants and landscaping, I am literally a "gardening junkie" myself and have been most of my life and to me its not just about "getting a job", but also educating clients on the plants I choose and how to care for them after they're installed. I work WITH the clients to make sure they're happy with the plan, and to make it not only beautiful but functional as well, and a place they'll enjoy for years to come!
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Client fills out my questionaire form, I meet with them, spend a couple hours going over their desires with them, sign contract, get measurements from property and house, begin work! I create plans in CAD and email to clients so they can see and approve, typically two preliminary plans, less if they're happy with one, and then a final plan is drawn up. They can then email plan to any contractor for bidding on, and typically the contractor will also come out to see property as well.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I received my certificate in Landscape Architecture from Mira Costa College in 2010, and have spent the last nine years working as a landscape designer here in Southern California, specializing in drought tolerant and native plants. Lots of personal experience in gardening organically also both on tract housing size lots and acreage in this area, as well as designing my own yards for years prior to "formalizing" my education via school.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Not really, too many variables involved! Depends on what the clients want. A very rough rule of thumb might be around a $1.00 per square foot, but on a large lot, with large areas of groundcover, could be less, on a smaller more intensively designed lot could be more!
How did you get started in this business?
I've always loved plants and gardening but after doing several of my own yards and being told by others that I should do it for a living, I decided they could be right, and after looking around for quite some time discovered where I could best accomplish this.
What types of customers have you worked with?
ALL types! Single retirees, married working couples, couples without kids and with them. Professionals who want the best and those who just want a low maintenance yard. I've had some difficult clients and some extremely nice ones! Nothing unusual I think though. Some people really want to learn about what I'm putting in, some people enjoy getting involved in the process, and some pretty much leave everything up to me - everybody's unique, just like what I do for them!
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Look at their background, how involved are they in the process, do they have any educational background, and keep in mind that a Landscape Designer or Architect is NOT a "Contractor", two very different fields, and I believe you can only do one well! I dont do installation, only contractors do, and only a landscape designer/architect is qualified to design your landscape and put a complete professional plan together for you!
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Who will be working with me? Will you or a subordinate? What are your qualifications or your subordinates? Do you work with the contractor, or after you have been paid if problems arise? How long does it take to finish a plan and how long to have the landscape installed?