FAQs
“Galen’s knowledge of plants got us more variety than we would have managed to think of alone. Drawings and presentations showing the plants and their characteristics and what to expect from each year-round were an essential part of the process. We highly recommend Galen for his expertise, client focus and smooth working with the garden installers. ”
I'm always delighted to assist you with any questions you might have. And if anything isn’t covered here, feel free to email me.
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A majority of homeowners in the US have never worked with a professional landscaper, let alone a designer, so I keep that in mind when meeting homeowners. I know that taking a leap and investing in your landscape is a big deal. Getting everything just right and making the process easier and stress-free is my main goal. Site analysis, layout options, working with contractors, managing installation - I am there for all of it, and I keep you informed as we go along.
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Garden design focuses on the layout and planting, while landscape design takes a broader approach, considering the overall design of the space, including hardscaping elements such as walkways, patios, walls, and water features, etc. Landscape designers may also need to consider factors such as drainage, grading, and erosion control.
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I am happy to work with your preferred contractors. Trust and knowledge go a long way.
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Essentially anything to create aesthetically pleasing and functional outdoor spaces, which covers a lot. It can be as small as a modest rain garden, or a vast estate with new patios, water features, fire pits, flagstone pathways, outdoor kitchens, and lush pollinator gardens. It all fits under the umbrella of “yardscapes.”
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Feel free to see my step-by-step process page on this website. But briefly, it's 1) free consultation, 2) proposal, 3) site evaluation, 4) design, 5) contractor estimate, 6) installation, and 7) maintenance.
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Absolutely. There are many aspects of a landscape design that we can prioritize or scale to fit a budget. The must-haves vs. the nice-to-haves so to speak. These can include choosing less-expensive paving options, lower-maintenance plants, using existing materials, or even implementing in phases over time.
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Depending on the design, I have a variety of ways of presenting what a space will look like. That can be very technical layouts, artistic illustrations of different angles, or even 3D renderings. Sometimes all three! Additional information about specific plants, hardscape materials, and other elements are always helpful to show. You can visit my Instagram feed for some previous project samples.
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Any time of year can be good for either planting, planning, installing hardscapes, or all three. Spring and fall are the best times to get plants in the ground. Summer, to a lesser degree. Fall and winter are great times to get a head start with planning. Most times of the year are good for installing patios, walkways, retaining walls, etc.
Why hire a landscape designer?
Overall, it’s a worthwhile investment. A landscape designer will:
Manage the complexities of a landscaping project, from initial planning to final execution. They will handle the intricacies of site analysis, material selection, and contractor coordination, saving you time, stress, and potential mistakes.
Understand the intricacies of plant selection, hardscaping elements, drainage systems, and overall landscape design principles. Their expertise ensures that your outdoor space is not only visually appealing but also complements your home's architecture and seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment.
Take the time to understand your needs, preferences, and lifestyle, tailoring a design plan specifically for your space. They will consider factors such as your aesthetic, budget constraints, and the functionality you want. This personalized approach ensures that your landscape reflects your individual style and preferences.
Provide valuable guidance on maintaining your newly designed landscape, ensuring its longevity and continued beauty. They can recommend appropriate plant care, irrigation schedules, and seasonal maintenance tips, helping you preserve the investment you've made.