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Landscape designer services

Hiring a talented landscape designer is the first step towards creating an outdoor space the entire family will enjoy.

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Alexandra Plesa
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Whether you're looking to give your outdoor space a refresh or are starting completely from scratch, landscape design can be hard work.

The process involves assessing the environment and considering your personal style and needs – including financial ones. Only then will you be ready to come up with a design that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Thankfully, there are professionals who can do all the heavy lifting for you, as our guide explains.

What does a landscape designer do?

A landscape designer is a professional who designs outdoor spaces by preparing detailed plans for clients. Simply put, a landscape designer will assess your outdoor space, inquire about your style and requirements, then come up with a design plan that satisfies your needs.

Depending on the scope of their work, landscape designers can also assist in overseeing the project so they can make sure contractors work efficiently based on their initial plans and sketches.

What landscape design services are available?

Services provided by professionals specialising in landscape design can include:

  • Site analysis
  • Front yard design
  • Backyard design
  • Full outdoor space design
  • 2D or 3D designs, with walking tours
  • Detailed construction documentation
  • Project management.

landscape designers

How do I hire a landscape designer?

Start by researching landscape designer services available in your area. If your project isn't very complex, you can look into hiring a freelancer to provide you with a landscape design plan on websites like Fiverr or Upwork.

Otherwise, you can either hire a landscape company in your area, in which case the designer comes to you for on-site visits; or, you can go with a company that provides online landscape designer services, in which case the entire process will be virtual.

How much does a landscape designer cost?

This is tricky to assess since the price will depend on a wide variety of factors – from how detailed you want to design to be to how quickly you need it to how big your outdoor space is.

You can end up paying anything from $20 if you hire a designer for a basic landscaping plan on Fiverr to hundreds of dollars if you're looking to overhaul a big outdoor space and expect 3D walking tours or detailed construction estimates.

How do I compare this type of service?

There are three big factors to consider when researching landscape design services:

  • Cost – the project estimate must be within your budget;
  • Expertise – inquire about the services included in a design package to make sure you're getting your money's worth;
  • Reputation – see what others are saying about the company by checking online reviews or asking friends for recommendations.

How should I prepare for a landscape designer?

First off, take time to assess the space and figure out what kind of design elements you would like to incorporate. Do you want to install a pool? A play space for the kids? Would you rather grow vegetables? Do you think installing a patio is a good idea? From there, make a list of needs and wants.

If you contract the services of an online landscape design company, you will also have to provide photos and videos of your outdoor space as well as mention your budget for the project. Some businesses require you to complete an online style quiz and provide images you find inspiring for best results.

What to consider when hiring landscape designers

The main thing you need to decide before researching landscape designers is exactly how hands-on you want the professional to be. If you simply need someone to provide you with a detailed plan of the design, hiring someone online can do the trick.

On the other hand, if you want someone who will help you manage the project once the design is done, hiring someone local who can do on-site visits is a better choice.

There are also companies that offer complete landscaping services. That means they will take care of the entire process from the initial design to the actual landscaping – plant sourcing, deck installation, paving and so on.

Do I need to be at home during the work?

It depends on what kind of professional you hire. If the designer is local, they will come by to assess your outdoor space in person. You need to be there to let them in and talk face-to-face about any concerns you may have.

If you go with a professional or company that offers online landscape design services, the whole process takes place via the Internet.

Pros and Cons of a hiring a landscape designer

Pros

  • You can explore various options for your outdoor space
  • Save yourself valuable time on research
  • End up with a detailed plan to kick-off your outdoor design project
  • It can be easy to see if the proposed design is within your budget

Cons

  • This service can be very expensive
  • It may not be required if your outdoor space is small

Bottom line

If you want to make extensive outdoor improvements, hiring a landscape designer is the smart way to go. A professional will help you make the most of your space so you can enjoy a completely personalised and sustainable outdoor oasis for years to come.

Frequently asked questions

Is there anything a landscape designer cannot do?

A landscape designer doesn't do the actual landscaping. They come up with a vision and can provide construction specifications along with planting, lighting and irrigation plans. Then, unless the company you employed offers landscaping services, you'll need to find someone else to put the plan into practice.

Are there any risks to consider when hiring a landscape designer?

As with all creative projects, there's always the risk that you won't be happy with the design. That's why it's important to communicate your expectations in great detail and check in multiple times throughout the design process.

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

While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, a garden designer only sticks to providing a design highlighting plants that would be best suited for your preference, solid, sun exposure and so on. Meanwhile, a landscape designer incorporates extra features in the design – like water features, pavement, walls, lighting and more.

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