Gardens, those pockets of nature’s artistry, have an allure that transcends time and trends. Whether it’s the vibrant flora dancing in harmony or the meticulously crafted pathways that beckon exploration, gardens have an undeniable charm. It’s no wonder that many of us harbor dreams of transforming our outdoor spaces into havens of beauty and serenity. If you’ve ever found yourself gazing admiringly at a neighbor’s garden or secretly coveting a friend’s verdant paradise, you’re not alone. The allure of a stunning garden is universal.
However, the road from garden envy to garden glory can be a daunting one, filled with questions, uncertainties, and the desire for expert guidance. That’s where garden designers come into play. These green-thumbed artists possess the knowledge and creativity to turn your garden dreams into a breathtaking reality.
Jessica, what is the first thing a person should know when hiring a landscape designer?
The decision to engage with a designer must be based on an affinity for their work, aesthetic, approach, philosophy, and personality. It’s a relationship—one that is sometimes long-term since developing landscape plans is a creative process that involves give and take from all. Everyone needs to get along well, communicate clearly, respect each other, and share in the vision for the project.
I typically take time to let people know my background and story so we are aligned from the get-go. That way they know what my strengths and areas of expertise are, what I can confidently deliver, the size of my team, and our process.
[Prospective clients and designers should also talk about] rates and design fees and the anticipated timeline for design or builds given the scope of work discussed. We also discuss our system for building designs that are ecologically relevant, artistically curated, and financially viable.
