What landscape design services do I provide?

I provide a range of services, including Hardscape Design, Planting Design, and Landscape Project Management.

What areas do you work in?

I primarily work in Jacksonville and St. Johns County, Florida. Meetings to review your design concepts and final design are typically held either online through video conference or locally.

What type of work do you do?

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture and a minor in Horticulture; therefore, my focus is on landscape design and maximizing the opportunities of each site. I specialize in sustainable and ecologically responsible residential landscape design. I enjoy working with homeowners and contractors throughout the process, from design to installation, to create beautiful and sustainable spaces that feel like an extension of your home. I can work with you to design and renovate an existing landscape or to build one from a blank slate.

What type of work do you not do?

I do not provide bids or quotes for elements that you want installed in your landscape that I did not design. If you don't need a design and are only looking to obtain a price for a new lawn, retaining wall, drainage system, or fence, it's better to contact a landscape contractor directly.

What is the difference between a designer and a landscape architect?

As a broad generalization, Landscape Architects have more expertise, understanding, and training in hardscapes and complex grading and drainage situations. Landscape Architects tend to focus more on large commercial and municipal projects. Landscape Designers typically only provide design services for residential landscape projects.

Do you do free consultations?

Due to my workload, I can only schedule a limited number of consultations. These appointments are scheduled only after I have spoken with you on the phone and determined that I would be a good fit for your project. My consultations usually last 1-1.5 hours and are free. However, my time on the phone is the best opportunity to ask me questions to determine if I am the right fit for you.

Do I need a landscape design?

A good landscape design can transform a property you dread into a space you love by increasing the ‘usable living area’ of your property. If you have great beds and hardscape but need to refresh the plant palette, a planting plan design may be all you need. If you need to renovate and refresh your property, a professional landscape design will assure your investment is well thought out and best suited to you and your family.

How much does a design cost?

Landscaping can be a considerable investment that adds value to your property. Because every project is unique, it’s challenging to provide an average cost for a landscape design. Designs for small properties can require just as much time and effort as those for larger properties, due to the need to maximize every inch of space. My designs for a Landscape Masterplan typically start at around $2,500 and increase based on the project's scope and desired amenities.

How long does the design take?

The design process (which includes an initial consultation, a concept plan meeting, and the final design presentation) can be completed in 6-8 weeks, depending on the season and the complexity of the design. In the spring and summer, you may find times increase as I get busier. 

I have never worked with a landscape designer before. What should I look for in a designer?

Choosing a landscape designer can be a difficult decision. My advice is to choose a person or company with whom you feel you can identify in terms of their style, process, and personality. Then, talk to that person and ensure they listen to you and understand your needs. A good design should be a merging of your landscape designer’s expertise and eye, along with your needs, wants, and available resources. Your landscape is an extension of your home and a reflection of your style, and you should enjoy it to the fullest.

Should I design all of my property at once or in stages?

A landscape design is a wise investment, but it can be costly to install the whole design at once. Creating the entire design at once is the wisest choice to ensure a cohesive design and vision for the project as it progresses. This landscape master plan can then be sectioned out into phases that can be installed in smaller portions as budget allows. The installation of the entire master plan may take anywhere from 1 year to 5 years or more, depending on the length of your wish list.

What if I don't like the design?

I spend a considerable amount of time getting to know you, learning about your goals and desires (I ask a lot of questions!), and include you as an integral part of the landscape design process. I want the final landscape design to be unique to you and your space, unlike any other property. In most instances, I will ask that you fill out a detailed landscape questionnaire as a way of getting to know you. The answers you provide serve as a guide for us to ensure you not only like, but love, your new design.

What size projects do you do?

I work on projects that range from small city lots to several-acre sites. I do my best work when I can design an entire space holistically, considering all the opportunities and constraints of the site. I integrate the opportunities of your site with your personal style, lifestyle, and budget and come up with creative solutions to maximize the beauty and functionality of your space. I may not be the best fit for you if you're looking to design only a small portion of your property or have a limited budget. 

Can you work with what I already have?

Whether you want to keep your favorite hydrangea in your new design or reuse all those junipers, I can work with you to create a design that best suits your needs. I can reuse existing plant material in the new design. Just tell us what you love (and don’t love) about your landscape, and I will work with you to decide the best way to reach your goals.

Can you design something that I can install myself? Or parts of it myself?

I go to extraordinary measures to design a landscaping plan that fits your needs. You can choose to install all or part of your landscaping plan yourself. Once I hand over the final design, you may do with it as you wish. Landscaping can be backbreaking work, best left to the professionals, but it can also be incredibly gratifying to complete small projects on your own. I am here to help guide you to find the best solution for you. I can advise on which types of projects are best suited for hiring a contractor and which kinds you may be able to tackle yourself. Either way, I can help you create a master plan to guide you or a contractor in the installation.

What is the cost of a landscape installation?

The cost to install your landscape design will vary significantly depending on several factors, including the project's size and the materials you select. The projects I design typically range between $30,000 and $100,000, although I also work on smaller and larger projects. I can work with you to divide your project into phases and obtain bids, allowing you to compare costs, contractors, and material options.

How do I take care of the newly installed landscape?

A newly installed landscape will require regular watering while it establishes over the first 2-3 years. Even after that, you may need to supplement water occasionally during my driest periods, from November through February. You can stay on top of the timing of other property tasks, such as pruning and mulching, by following the landscape maintenance cheat sheet provided at the end of your project.

If I hire you, how soon can you start my project?

If, after our first consultation, you are ready to move forward, in most cases (pending unforeseen circumstances, such as acts of Mother Nature or torrential downpours), I can begin work immediately once I receive a topographic survey and typically have concepts ready to review within 3-4 weeks.

Can I meet with you on an evening or weekend?

I understand that with work and busy schedules, it may be difficult to meet during regular business hours. However, due to my demanding schedule and the time and energy I invest in my work, it is equally important to spend time with my family and friends and recharge my creative energies. For this reason, I do not work on the weekends or evenings. My latest appointment is typically at 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday; however, I have occasionally made exceptions to accommodate later meetings.

I provide a unique style to every project through my creativity, diverse skills, and industry knowledge. Still have questions? I would love to answer them! 

Please contact me directly at (904) 962-5903 if you have any further questions.