Our Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation.
The design process starts with meeting you, touring your property and discussing the needs and desires for your garden spaces. This first meeting typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours. Standard consultation fees apply.
Step 2: Site Analysis
Photos and measurements are taken of the property and a site analysis is conducted which examines architecture, microclimates, soil conditions, views, the health and placement of existing plants, possible problem areas, and potential assets. Occasionally, a client is able to provide blueprints or CAD drawings which saves time and money.
Step 3: Creating a Base Map
A base map drawing is created to scale showing the existing property features and conditions.
Step 4: Creating a Concept Sketch
A conceptual drawing is created showing the proposed changes to the property. This sketch, drawn in color and roughly to scale, shows the shapes and locations of various design elements such as pathways, patios, decks, water features, focal points, planting areas, etc. which address your desires for the property as well as solutions for possible problem areas. Essentially, the ideas for your property are presented in a functional layout, similar to a hardscaping plan. At this stage, plant material is only discussed in broad generalities. Often, a perspective or elevation sketch of a key area of the design is included. Additional perspective sketches can be requested at an additional cost. All original drawings are retained by Windswept Landscapes.
Step 5: Concept Presentation
The concept sketch is presented and ideas are shared for your property. Hardscape materials for pathways, patios, walls, etc. are discussed and selected. A plant palette would be discussed and some key plants may be selected. The ideas for the property can be fine tuned at this time and upon acceptance, a final plan will drafted. The Concept Sketch is a working drawing and will be retained by Windswept Landscapes.
Step 6: Creating a Final Plan
A Final Plan is drafted with precision and detail. It could be a Hardscaping Plan, a Planting Plan or a Master Plan (a combination of Hardscaping and Planting Plans). Depending on the size and complexity of the project, more than one drawing may be necessary for clarity. A Hardscaping Plan will have all hardscaping elements located, labeled and drawn to scale. A Planting Plan will have all plants located and labeled with both botanical and common names as well as quantities.
Step Seven: Design Packet Presentation
The Final Drawing is presented, discussed, and a design packet is given to the client. The client receives 3 black-line prints that can be used for bids or working plans. An additional print with color can be requested at an additional cost. A separate plant list with names and quantities is provided with Planting Plans. Some general notes and pertinent information is typically included as well. An additional one hour of consultation time is included to help with any questions or concerns that arise during installation.
The design process starts with meeting you, touring your property and discussing the needs and desires for your garden spaces. This first meeting typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours. Standard consultation fees apply.
Design and Consultation Fees
Design costs vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the level of detail requested by the Client. Design work is typically billed at an hourly rate. An estimated price range would be included in the design proposal.
Consultation fee is $100 for the first hour, with a one hour minimum, and $70 per hour thereafter.
