Why Hiring a Landscape Designer is Important

By Northern Oak Landscapes I January 10, 2024

Benefits of hiring a Landscape Designer for your next Landscape Project

Hiring a landscape designer can offer numerous benefits, depending on your specific needs and goals. Here are five reasons why you might consider hiring a landscape designer.

#1 - Save Time and Money

Obtaining a landscape designer can save both time and money by leveraging their expertise to create an efficient and cost-effective plan. Professionals analyze your property, preventing costly mistakes by selecting the right plants and materials tailored to your environment. A comprehensive design, complete with elevations, dimensions, not only enhances precision but also minimizes the time construction crews spend deciphering layouts on-site. As we all recognize, labor constitutes the most significant portion of any project's expenses.

#2 - Planning and Clear Direction

Landscape designers possess a genuine passion for landscaping and stay well-informed about the latest trends in the industry. We have a keen understanding of both the subtle and substantial details that can elevate your landscape, adding a remarkable wow factor. From optimizing sightlines to strategically placing focal points across your yard, these considerations can make a significant impact. Given that landscaping costs can be substantial, it's not always feasible to tackle everything simultaneously. A skilled landscape designer can collaborate with you to create a phased approach, ensuring that each step contributes seamlessly to the overall end goal and design.

"Before anything else, preparation is the key to success." -Alexander Graham Bell

#3 - Budget and Material Takeoffs

Once the design is finalized, the designer can specify the precise quantities and materials for implementation. Having a detailed layout of the project, defining areas for elements like sod, patio, and planting beds, enables contractors to provide more accurate estimates, preventing budget overruns. It also empowers clients to obtain quotes from multiple contractors, ensuring a fair comparison based on identical parameters. Without a design, clients often receive quotes based solely on project size and vague preferences, resulting in significant variations between quotes. Unfortunately, this approach can lead to unexpected expenses during construction, causing frustration and resentment towards the contractor. A well-crafted plan reduces these issues, offering clarity and preventing unnecessary challenges in the project's execution.

#4 - Scale/ Function

Many individuals perceive a landscape designers role as solely enhancing the visual appeal of a yard, but there's a depth of functionality involved. While we do aim to create aesthetically pleasing landscapes, our focus extends beyond the immediate post-construction beauty. We consider the long-term functionality, envisioning how the yard will evolve over 10 or 15 years. Some examples being plant placement and anticipated growth to analyzing sun exposure throughout the day, preventing your dining area from being overly exposed to the intense afternoon sun. Utilizing advanced software, we provide comprehensive 2D and 3D designs, offering a precise preview of your project's outcome. This enables us to showcase the scale of each element, ensuring, for instance, that an address wall complements rather than overwhelms the entrance of your home.

#5 - Increased Property Value

A well-designed landscape can significantly enhance the curb appeal and overall value of your property. If you're considering selling your home in the future, a professionally designed landscape can be a strong selling point, attracting potential buyers and potentially increasing the resale value of your property.

Landscape Designers are worth it for your investment!

Ultimately hiring a landscape designer is an investment in the long term beauty, functionality, and value of your outdoor space. Their expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls, save time and money, and ensure your landscape meets your vision and your needs.