Just get started…

Want to improve your property but you haven’t a clue where to start? Begin by writing down the landscape features you would like creating a “Wish List”.  Thumb through books, magazines or do an internet search for example images.  You heard the old saying “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” right?  It is important to identify your sense of style and share it with the designer.   After all, it’s not what the designer likes, it’s is what you like.  The designer’s job is to create a landscape from the images you find appealing. 

Don’t overthink the details or even the cost, both are important, but not for this exercise. Once you have your list and images, Makeover Step #1 is completed, and the design of your new landscape has begun…

Next…Makeover Step #2 is to meet, at no cost or obligation to you, discuss your list, review your existing landscape, and establish your landscape vision. Once your goals are clearly defined, a detailed design proposal will be forwarded to you for review.   

Additional Makeover Design Steps:

A sketch of your existing landscape will be created and used to prepare design plans. The amount of detail on the mapping is commensurate with the complexity of the project. 

You will be presented with a conceptual design plan(s) including all the project items that achieve your vision. This plan will be modified as/if needed to address your comments. A revised conceptual plan will be presented at a follow up meeting.

A final design plan(s) shall be prepared containing critical information required for construction. The amount of detail on plans will vary depending on the complexity and technical elements integral to the design.

A Note on Cost and Construction Phasing…

The cost to construct your landscape can be discouraging. You do not need to build everything at once. A well prepared plan(s) provides the flexibility to construct your vision over several season. Knowing “Where everything goes” relative to site elevations, drainage, utilities, etc. will avoid mistakes and conflicts as you install over time. Taking a few years to complete the effort is better than never getting started.

Lastly, depending on your project, I will share design plans and photos of projects similar to yours. Let’s get started!

Mark J. Papa, Landscape Architect.

Small to large projects for any use. Outdoor Spaces, Deck and Patio Design, Custom Pool Design, Landscape Structures, Planting Plans and Complete Property Design

“Fall is for planting” I’m sure you heard this before. Yes, this is a great time of year to plant. Planting design is usually an easy process requiring less time then other projects, so there is still time to get it done. I will suggest plant material based on site conditions, but also present you with a library of trees, shrubs and perennials/flowers to chose from. Go for it!

“Weather Permitting” You can design smaller projects now and get them constructed this year. Patios, decks, sidewalks, walls, landscape structures, etc.

Swimming Pools: Pool companies may start your pool in the fall and finish it in the spring. When a property design includes a swimming pool it is extremely important to plan its location/solar exposure and elevations as they relate to future landscape features not yet installed. A master layout plan may be a good idea before you install a pool!

“Plan Ahead” Another adage! Larger projects will require more discussion, planning, detailed design, etc. Begin planning this year and be ready to build early in 2025.

Some projects may require regulatory / town approvals, permits. Design this year, determine if you must go through the regulatory process and be ready for spring.

Planning ahead also allows you to better develop a budget and gather quotations from contractors. I will be glad to help you with costing and budget estimates.