Frequently Asked Questions
Q: We’ve never worked with a landscape designer before. How long will the design process take, and when is the best time of year to initiate a project?
A: Typically the design process can take anywhere from 6-12 weeks. The exact timeline will depend greatly on several factors:
- Time of year. The best time to focus on design work is during the winter months. Designing at this time of year usually results in the quickest turnaround of plans. We do design work during spring, summer and fall but it will move at a slower pace due to competition with our installation work.
- Client responsiveness. Because of the emphasis on client participation, clients have a significant influence on the design process timeline. Providing timely feedback and being flexible and available for review of plans can expedite the design process.
- Complexity of project. A compact, focused project will take less design time than a large master plan, or a property that has significant challenges with existing conditions (drainage, erosion, etc.).
Q: Are there projects that are too small for New Leaf to consider taking on?
A: If your project will benefit from having a professional landscape designer working with you, then the project is not too small for New Leaf. In the course of a given season we will typically have a range of projects in progress that range in size, scope and complexity. We welcome projects of any size.
Q: What is the range of services the New Leaf Installation Team can offer?
A: New Leaf is capable of providing a complete installation, from start to finish. Together with our skilled sub-contractors, we design and install:
- Intimate garden spaces
- Edible landscapes
- Complete landscape renovations
- Period-appropriate gardens for your historic home
- Patios, walkways, decorative and retaining walls
- Driveways (as well as specialty driveways such as macadam or chip seal)
- Water features
- Nightscaping
- Irrigation
- Outdoor cooking areas
Q: I am considering initiating a landscape project. What sorts of documentation are useful to have assembled before initiating the design work?
A: the exact answer to that question will depend on the extent of the project you envision, and the exact location of your property. A plot plan can be useful for many smaller projects if it is of adequate quality. For larger projects that will approach property lines, it becomes essential to have a boundary survey in hand before design work commences. At our initial design meeting, we can review the documentation you have in hand and discuss what if any will be required before initiating your project.
