Landscape Design
During landscape planning, our team studies the area your project encompasses and develops the most natural way to utilize it efficiently and connect it to the environment in a way that respects the history and culture of the area while leaving its mark.
Site Analysis
The most vital step of any landscape design is the site analysis which looks at the grounds and the overall conditions. It considers the soil analysis, sun exposure, the amount of shade, wind exposure, drainage, flooding, salt spray, the actual size of the space, and all maintenance required to ensure that the landscape is healthy and attractive.
While analyzing the site is a critical part of the design process, a landscape architect or designer must also understand the attributes, assets, and limitations of the available space for the prospective landscape area. The extent to which the designer knows every inch of the site is crucial to creating a design that fulfills the homeowners’ needs, wants, and expectations.
Assessing the Client's Needs
The second step encourages the property owner to list everything they want or need in the outdoor space. The area and budget will determine whether everything on their list is possible and what features or functions are most important.
Every landscape designer or architect should get to know the people who will use the space they are creating. There is a considerable difference between assessing a client’s needs from a wish list and figuring out what they want after speaking with them face to face. We at RIO take pride in our ability to build relationships with every client.
Functional Diagram
The third step in the design process addresses the functionality of the space and what it will require to make the area amenable to every purpose or use the design needs to fulfill.
Functional design is a critical part of the design process because it allows the landscape designer to determine where to place different activity spots and how much space each area, including the lawn installation, will need. For example, if a client wants an outdoor eating area with an outdoor kitchen, it makes sense to place that as close to the building as possible. If the design includes edible landscaping, it will need sun and water, so a sunny location with access to water is essential.
Conceptual Design
The conceptual phase of the design process allows the landscaping professional to experiment with the placement of plant elements, activity areas, hardscapes, and other features. Critical decisions, such as the grass installation, are made during this phase, and we finalize all other conceptual ideas to complete the landscape installation plan.
Final Detailed Design Plan
Thanks to our proven design process, we can clearly understand how to utilize space for our clients when finalizing the outdoor activity, living, and entertainment areas of the project.
The final drawing includes details such as measurements, plant spacing, accurate measurements for the grass installation area, and how every component of the home’s newly designed outdoor living area will come together.
