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Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the landscape architecture questions we hear most — from homeowners across San Francisco, the Bay Area, and beyond.
Frequently asked questions
- 01Landscape architects and landscape designers both create beautiful outdoor spaces, but their training and scope of work are different.A landscape architect is a licensed professional who looks at the entire property, not just the planting. That includes how the landscape relates to your home, grading and drainage, hardscape, water management, permitting, construction drawings, and coordinating with architects, engineers, and contractors.Landscape designers often focus on planting plans, garden design, and smaller outdoor projects. While many are highly talented, they aren't required to hold a professional license.If your project involves significant changes to the site, structures, permitting, or multiple consultants, a landscape architect brings the technical expertise and big-picture perspective to guide the project from concept through construction. The goal is a landscape that not only looks beautiful, but functions well and comes together seamlessly.
- 02Absolutely. Our involvement doesn't end when the drawings are complete. We stay closely engaged throughout construction, making regular site visits to review progress, answering questions, and ensuring the design is being carried through as intended.There are also key moments where our presence is essential, such as laying out hardscapes, planting areas, and placing trees, pots, and other landscape elements. Construction can uncover site conditions that aren't visible on paper, so we work closely with the contractor to resolve those details as they arise.By remaining involved from start to finish, we help the construction process stay aligned with the original vision, so the finished landscape feels just as thoughtful in reality as it did in the design.
- 03Every project is different, so we build the team around the needs of your property. Depending on the scope, that may include an architect, engineer, surveyor, arborist, lighting designer, irrigation specialist, pool consultant, landscape contractor, and other trusted professionals.We'll bring the right people into the process at the right time and coordinate their work so every decision supports one cohesive vision. By collaborating early, we can address everything from grading and drainage to permitting and construction costs before work begins, creating a smoother process with fewer surprises along the way.
- 04Every landscape is different, so timelines vary based on the project's size, complexity, permitting requirements, and contractor availability. For projects that require permitting, it's not uncommon for the design and approval process to take a year or more. Simpler projects without permitting can often move from design to construction in just a few months.While some parts of the process are outside our control, we plan ahead whenever possible, overlapping phases so construction can begin soon after approvals are in place. Throughout the process, we stay focused on clear communication, thoughtful planning, and close coordination, creating a smoother experience and a landscape that's well worth the wait.
- 05Yes. Every project begins with a comprehensive master plan that establishes the long-term vision for your landscape. From there, we can break the work into thoughtfully planned phases that align with your timeline and budget.
- 06It depends on your project and your local jurisdiction. Early in the design process, we research the applicable requirements so there are no surprises later on.Features such as retaining walls, decks, pergolas, pools, and certain utility work often require permits. Depending on the scope, your project may also need to meet local regulations for water efficiency, fencing, lighting, or other site-specific requirements.We'll guide you through the permitting process, coordinate with the appropriate agencies, and make sure the design stays aligned with local requirements every step of the way.
- 07Yes. We believe the best projects balance thoughtful design with a realistic investment from the very beginning.Early in the design process, we work with trusted contractors to understand current construction costs and gather preliminary pricing. That collaboration allows us to refine the design, prioritize what's most important to you, and make informed decisions before the project moves too far along.By bringing the right people together early, we can align the design, budget, and construction process from the start, creating a smoother experience with fewer surprises along the way.
- 08Our projects are billed hourly, with an estimated budget range provided at the start so you have a clear understanding of what to expect.Because every landscape evolves as ideas are refined and decisions are made, we structure our work in phases rather than defining the entire scope upfront. This gives us the flexibility to respond thoughtfully as the design develops, while keeping you informed every step of the way.
Create a space that
invites you to slow down
Some of life's most meaningful moments happen outside. A quiet morning before the world wakes up. An evening gathered with family beneath the glow of soft lighting. A place where nature gently reminds you to slow down. We'll help you create a landscape that becomes the backdrop for those moments.
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