Design

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The term “free estimate” is so over used in any form of contracting that it has become a platitude. Everyone expects it and just about everyone gives them. That being said when and where is the line drawn between the “free estimate” and consulting/design. As a landscape professional I face this almost daily. I prefer not to think I spent the last twenty years gaining field experience, a college degree, continuing professional education, industry certifications, seminars, as well as countless books read to give it all away on estimates.

 

In many cases potential clients call upon us directly for design and planning services. This we clearly charge design and consulting fees for. Then work with the client through a carefully developed design process in order to produce the product that is the landscape design. The value is in the process and knowledge provided. 

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It may sound crazy to start thinking about landscape projects in the dead of winter but this is when you need to start (if not sooner). Most landscape design/build firms try to start projects in early March (weather permitting). That is only a few months away. These design/build firms are booking work as you read this article. In addition 2010 was a busy year for most design/build firms and many will have a backlog into this spring.

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Condition, appearance, and maintenance is how real estate appraisers judge and value your landscaping.  Also, to determine your homes value they ...

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Now that it is early November most people who want a landscape project installed hold off to spring. They are convinced it is too late in the season for this type of work. But here in central/north central New Jersey landscape professionals often install projects up to late December and even into January in some cases. 

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I have always advocated the benefit of good design in the landscape. In past articles I have pointed out about function, use, sustainability, and the return on your investment. Yet there are still many other benefits. One other benefit that has gained a new urgency is saving energy through the use of landscape design. This once hard sell to homeowners by professional designers is now a most important function for future landscape projects in the residential, commercial, and even industrial market.

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When I was a kid I always wanted to do what my friends were up to. I would run to my parents and ask if I could also do as my peers. My parents would often say no and I would quickly say but everyone else is doing it! To answer me they would say “if your friends jumped of the Brooklyn Bridge would you”? 

 

This familiar childhood problem can be compared to how most people select the landscape for their homes. They see their neighbors and friends installing a project and they purchase a similar style project at their home. Our homes already are losing their individuality in these vast developments of modern center hall colonials. Why would we want our landscapes to be so similar as well? Or if we do have a different style home why should its landscape look alike as well. There is inadequate public appreciation for the value of design and planning in enhancing the quality of life in our communities.

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Remember shag carpeting? Not too popular anymore. Many trends happen in home décor, fashion, and virtually everything we do. Landscape design and the products used are also part of the trend cycle. How do we avoid the “shag carpeting” in our choice of landscape materials?  Take a look at the things that never go out of style.

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It is a well proven fact gardening and viewing gardens/landscaping is a soothing way to unwind. With the modern low voltage lighting systems available today our homes can be very welcoming and soothing in the dark.

Unfortunately most home owners and landscape professionals overlook all the benefits of low voltage lighting in our landscapes. By adding a well designed system we can improve safety and security, illuminate our entry sequence, highlight our best features in the landscape, and set up dramatic “scenes”.

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Gardening has been well documented as the most popular pastime in America. It can be a very relaxing and rewarding hobby. Many people have a natural talent for creating lovely gardens. Some even will take on building the structural elements of their gardens and landscapes.

For some people they undertake a landscape project on their own without engaging professionals because they have a deep passion for what they are planning and want to create it themselves. Others may be trying to control the project cost. Sometimes it is a combination of both reasons. Whatever the reason you will need to create a budget based on your project needs.

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