RESIDENTIAL DESIGN

Frequently Asked Questions

I have an older existing landscaping that I 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 We love to work with existing mature trees and landscaping, or to totally transform an outdated landscape into something beautiful.

Do you provide a free estimate?

Yes! Simply fill out our contact form and we will send you an information packet which includes a questionnair and general pricing information. Once you’ve had a chance to look over our pricing and feel it aligns with your budget, we’ll be happy to schedule a consulation to discuss your specific needs

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 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. Our designs offer the flexibility to bid the project installation to multiple contractors to find competitive rates, hire a trusted contractor
of your own, or DIY some or all of the installation yourself.

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 get my landscaping approved from my homeowners association?

Yes! We deal with homeowners associations all the time. In most cases they will be happy that you hired a professional landscape architect, therefore making the approval process much faster.

Can you provide a master plan that I can install over time?

Of course! 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 tell us how much water and money we would save by doing a landscape renovation?

Yes. We can do an 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.

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 design items that are not landscaping, such as decks, retaining walls, driveways, and pools?

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.

Do you provide 3D renderings of the designs?

Yes, we offer 3D renderings upon request to help clients visualize their newly designed landscape.

I have no idea what landscaping costs. Can you help me come up with a realistic budget for my project?

We consider this an important part of our job. We will work with you to determine a realistic budget for your project. And if the initial idea is too ambitious, we can then scale it back to make it work for you.

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. Click here to view our current Residential Design Packet with a guide to general pricing information.

What forms of payment do you accept & do you have payment plans?

We accept major credit cards, checks, and electronic payments. After an initial free consultation, we will establish a design fee. We’ll ask for a deposit to kick things off, and then we’ll bill you as we move through the different phases of the design.

What if I want to install your design myself

No problem. We see many of our designs get installed this way. Our plans are detailed and easy enough to follow that they make an excellent resource for any DIY’er.

After the Design is done, do you stay involved in the project during construction?

We are available to stay involved in the project as part of our Construction Administration services. Our involvement can be tailored to your needs and situation. This can often include bidding, contractor selection, and oversight.

We are building a new home. When would be the best time to contact you?

We would prefer to be contacted early the design process, to work with your Architect on the placement of the home. This way we can give advice on where to place entryways, driveways, patios, retaining walls, lawns, outdoor kitchens, and other amenities. But, if the home has already been designed we would still love to plan your landscaping!

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.

Hours

Monday - Friday: 8am to 5pm
Saturday: By Appointment
Sunday: Closed

Location

5690 Webster Street
Arvada, CO 80002

Contact Us

303.993.4811