Consultation
The first step, allows for the meeting of site, client and the landscape architect. A site's strengths and weaknesses are assessed, and ideas regarding potential improvements can be discussed. In some cases, a consultation session is all that is necessary, while in others a conceptual master plan is needed for design visualization, phasing and construction. A consultation can also be helpful prior to buying or selling a property. Consultations usually take 1.5 - 2 hours, call or email to schedule, please have ready any relevant survey maps, photos or notes. Consultation Fees are as follows: Vashon Island- $100, Seattle and Mercer Island - $120, Eastside and Other areas $140 (this is due to travel time and gas expense).
Conceptual Master Plans
This type of drawinghas been developed over the years to provide design comprehension, value and flexibility.It includes enough information to illustrate the main concepts of the landscape design, but not so much as to limit the project's evolution.The drawings are to scale, and include building footprint, hardscapes, vegetation and other landscape elements (see drawings section).In most cases, they contain enough information for estimating, phasing and construction.Conceptual Master Plans are drawn by hand, which some will regard as a fading art form, but I believe affords the Landscape Architect more time to consider design decisions, and it is important to keep old traditions alive.Clients receive a folder containing:two full size drawings, two reductions in color and several reductions (easy to copy and distribute). The cost of a Conceptual Master Plan ranges from $1200 -$2000 depending on size, and character of site, and degree of measuring required (providing plot plans, surveys, or architectural plans may lower the cost).
Project Management
The construction process no less important than the design. An inflexible plan may limit the potential of a site to evolve. A long list of specifications does not guarantee a successful project. By being involved in the construction the Landscape Architect can provide artistic decisions, provide substitutions, and assure quality. After the design has been presented, the discussion turns to phasing and estimate of costs. I have certain Landscape and other outdoor contractors that I have worked with over the years, and prefer to work with them since I know their skills and reliability. Collaboration is possible with other contractors that Clients have successfully worked with in the past as well. Some Clients are able to perform some of the work themselves, in which case I can assist in Layout, Material Selection and Construction Methods. Project Management fees based on$60/hour.
Continuing Care
On projects that have been designed and built previously, seasonal visits aid the landscape in maturing properly.Landscapes are living, changing environments that have the benefit of improving with age if they are cared for - a loss of investment if they are neglected.The budget must not exclude ongoing care.During these visits recommendations are given regarding the maintenance, pruning, systems analysis (lighting, irrigation, water features).Continuing Care fees based on $60/hour.
Note
Prices for 2007. Please consider Timing, Consultations can be scheduled anytime, Drawings and Project management services may be booked out for a season during busy times. I appreciate Clients that first commission a design, and in due time set about the phasing of construction.