We have recently been reflecting on the various types of projects that landscape companies undertake.
To gain more insight into this, we reached out to Jon Riep, a Rosie Certified Partner from Think Green Design/Build Landscape, who just celebrated its 25th anniversary.
He helped us understand the wide range of services a landscape company can provide.
Landscape projects
Jon explained, “Nearly anything outside the home could be classified as a landscape project. If a structure is involved, a permit and or proper licensing may be required.”
Some common projects include:
- Planting of all types – which involves soil preparation specific to each plant type and knowledge of the best plants for different exposures
- Designing and building patios – which may require covering or removing old concrete or starting from scratch in a new outdoor area. Pavers are a popular material used in these projects.
- Outdoor living spaces, whether covered or uncovered, are increasingly popular.
- The installation of fire pits, fireplaces, and even outdoor pizza ovens is also part of the landscape design repertoire.
- Irrigation system installation.
- Surface drainage control.
As you can see, and as Jon reminds us, landscaping is more than just plants.
Most common project types
Landscaping for new homes, particularly custom builds, is common, but Think Green often focuses on remodeling the landscapes of existing homes.
Why do people choose to remodel their landscapes? The reasons for remodeling are quite consistent:
- New homeowners often want to make changes to personalize their space. It’s natural for anyone to want to enjoy their home—both indoors and outdoors and for it to reflect their style.
- Landscapes can become overgrown, and some plants may die due to a faulty irrigation system. Homeowners often want to do more than replace the dead plants.
- Many people want to enhance their home’s curb appeal. Even if they aren’t planning to sell, refreshing the front appearance of their home can add real value.
- Sometimes, homeowners simply no longer like their current landscape and want a change.
- In some cases, the old landscape doesn’t work with their current needs, i.e. kids have grown up etc.
We could apply any of those to any remodel at any time and in any location. As with any remodel, specific components of the landscape may be retained. The new design and or spaces created may keep a mature tree or planting group that accentuates the new. It takes time for plants to mature, and as designers, maintaining a healthy plant is always a priority. We have recently been reflecting on the various types of projects that landscape companies undertake.
Jon says, “One of the newer trends I’m seeing is a more contemporary or modern look for landscape systems. Plantings tend to feature more straight lines; lighting systems accentuate these lines and generally bring the outdoors and the indoors together. By extending interior lines and house lines into the landscape and outdoor spaces, a more expansive and cohesive feeling is achieved.”
Before you call
Jon recommends that people take some time to consider their landscaping and outdoor living goals before seeking help. While it’s certainly possible to assist clients who are starting from scratch, having a clear idea of what you want will lead to a more personalized project. Asking yourself why you want to make changes is an essential step for both you and the design team.
Here are some considerations and goals to think about:
Are you looking to add color to your outdoor space? Color preferences will influence the types of plants proposed.
Consider where you want to place private areas outside. A homeowner’s desire for privacy can be addressed through various solutions, such as fencing, overhead screening, plantings, or a combination of these elements.
Consider your outdoor living goals. How do you want to use the space? Is it for family gatherings, entertaining guests, or outdoor cooking?
Consider the time of day you plan to use the space, taking into account seasonal factors.
- Do you need to address any existing issues? For example, if your patio floods every time it rains, that’s a problem. A drainage solution may impact your design moving forward.
- Are you looking to create a specific type of garden, such as a flower bed or vegetable garden?
- Will you want to add a pool?
- Is this project going to be completed in phases? Spreading the work over time might be financially beneficial.
There are many factors to consider. Jon emphasizes that a good design team can help identify your goals, but if you take the time to reflect on them and communicate them to the designer, you’re more likely to be satisfied with the results.
Building the design
When you hire a company that offers both design and construction services, the transition between the two phases is seamless. This type of company is helpful whether your project is an outdoor living space or an indoor master bathroom. They can be resourceful in understanding the applicable construction techniques available to provide unique solutions.
When is the right time to move from design to construction? It depends on your location in Arizona. For example, residents of Flagstaff have a very different timeline for implementation compared to those living in the warmer lower desert regions. It’s essential to consult with a local professional to determine the best timing for your project.
At Think Green, we operate in the Scottsdale and Cave Creek areas, allowing us to work year-round. Jon also emphasizes that any time of year is a great time to plan your project, regardless of your location in Arizona.
The post A landscape of possibilities: From plants to patios appeared first on KTAR.
