SITE RENOVATION
Frequently Asked Questions
We are unsure about your services and would like to meet you on-site before we move forward. Can you meet us to do a quick analysis of or property and provide some basic recommendations?
Yes. Simply fill out our contact form and we will get back to right away. The best way to start the process Is to have a brief phone or video call to discuss you project needs and determine how we can best help. We can then meet with you on-site to further discuss the details of your project.
We received an insurance settlement or a construction defects settlement due to faulty construction. Can you design a solution to fix our drainage and grading problems?
We have years of experience working with property owners to design solutions to fix drainage problems, faulty retaining walls, repairing or removing leaky water features or pools, etc.
What is the difference between Outdoor Design Group and a landscape contractor or a garden center?
Our friends the landscape contractors and garden centers are really in the business of selling installation services and materials, even if they say they do design. They typically charge a very small design fee and do not want to spend much time or effort on the design. We are professional Landscape Architects who only do design. Our job is to spend a lot of time with you carefully planning a design that meets your expectations, while also meeting your budget. After the design is done, we can put the plans out for competitive bids, help select the right contractor, and then provide oversight of the installation on your behalf.
Can you attend board meetings and present design solutions to our leadership?
As professional Landscape Architects, this is one of the key advantages that we bring to the table. We are good communicators, and have plenty of experience presenting designs and ideas to decision makers. We can also prepare color graphics that are easy to read and understand.
Can you recommend a contractor to do the installation?
Over the years we have developed a great network of contractors that we trust, and are happy to refer them to you to do the installation of our designs. Because we prepare professional plans, your project can be sent out for competitive bids to get you the best price on the installation.
Do you provide 3D renderings of the designs?
Yes, we offer 3D renderings upon request which can add value to presentations.
Can you provide a master plan that we can implement over time as funds become available?
Yes, this is one of our specialties. We realize that not everyone has the budget or patience to do it all at once. A master plan is a great way to make improvements in phases, over time.
Can you incorporate ADA-compliant features into the design?
Absolutely, we design all kinds of accessible outdoor spaces that comply with ADA guidelines, ensuring usability for everyone.
Can you incorporate green infrastructure, such as green roof, rain gardens, xeriscaping, or permeable paving?
Yes! We specialize in sustainable design solutions and frequently help convert high maintenance sites to sustainable water-wise landscapes. We have experience with xeriscape, ColoradoScape, green roofs, rain gardens, and other green solutions.
Are there any Architecture or Civil Engineering firms that you work closely with or could recommend?
We have many strong ongoing relationships with several different design disciplines. We can assemble a team of professionals to suit your project needs.
How much does a design cost and how do you charge for your services?
Each project and Client are unique, so the cost for our services varies depending on your individual project. Please contact us and we will get back to you right away to learn what your project needs are so we can provide a proposal based on your requirements and budget.
Can you tell us how much water and money we would save by doing a landscape renovation?
Yes. We can do a quick analysis to give you a rough idea of how much water and money you could save. As we get into more detail on the design we can tell you exactly what your savings will be by doing a landscape renovation. We can also look at cost savings and payback over time.
We have an older existing landscaping that we want to renovate. Can you plan a renovation that keeps some existing features and replaces others?
Yes! This is one of our specialty areas. We love to work with existing mature trees and landscaping, or to totally transform an outdated landscape into something beautiful.
What is a landscape architect?
Landscape Architects are professionally licensed to practice, similarly to an Engineer or an Architect. To call oneself a Landscape Architect and to practice the field, you must have a degree in Landscape Architecture from an accredited university, and then pass a strenuous written examination. In most cases, laws require that a licensed Landscape Architect be included on the project design team for the design of new buildings, parks, streetscape, communities, homes, etc. For more information, see the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
Can you design irrigation systems and sprinklers?
Yes, we can design both new systems and upgrades. We also specialize in re-designing landscaping and irrigation to save a lot of water.
Can you prepare landscape plans for approval from the City, County, or Reviewing Agency?
This is another key advantage that we have over others in the industry. As Landscape Architects, we are experienced at submitting plans to various Cities, States, Counties, and local government agencies for approval. We know this process well and can help guide the project along as quickly and painlessly as possible.
Can you design items that are not landscaping, such as signage, retaining walls, outdoor amenities, sport courts, and parking lots?
As professional Landscape Architects we have experience with all of these items and more. Many of these items require detailed drawings and special permits – we have experience dealing with all of these issues, and can design the entire project to fit together perfectly.
How do we get started and what are the first steps?
Simply fill out our short contact form and we will get back to you right away to schedule a consultation. After the consultation we will provide you with a customized proposal to fit your
requirements.