Landscape Services

DESIGN

Our design process is deeply influenced by our philosophy, but it is always rejuvenated when we embark on a new client project. This is because each client and space holds its own unique wellspring of inspiration. To unlock this energy, we have crafted our design process as a precise tool that gracefully extracts the essence of inspiration from both the client and the site. At its core, our process is relational, whether it involves face-to-face meetings or visiting the site to thoroughly analyze, observe, and grasp its distinctive characteristics. We aim to truly understand our client and their space to produce the finest result.

The initial step of our process involves meeting with the client, preferably on-site, where we sit with them, walk with them, and most importantly, listen to them. After they have articulated their goals, we delve deeper by asking a series of thought-provoking questions. More often than not, these conversations evolve into fascinating dialogues that create the perfect atmosphere for uncovering the core understanding that motivates, satisfies, and brings genuine joy to our clients. It is these invaluable moments of inspiration that we constantly seek.

Our process is far from linear, as we have periodic meetings throughout the journey, some planned and others more spontaneous. We have learned from experience that this approach not only results in the best outcome, but also fosters trust and genuine collaboration, often leading to mutually respectful and enduring relationships.

CONSULT

All our meetings and site evaluations serve a practical purpose beyond simply creating the best product for our clients. They contribute to the development of a design program, an invaluable document that compiles and inventories all the inspirational discoveries we made during our meetings. This program serves as a driving force for the design itself, providing critical references along the way. From capturing the joy of entertaining large crowds to the rejuvenation of solitary walks along a nature path, and even intimate family dinners in the evening, we understand our clients by grasping their personal lifestyle values. Additionally, we endeavor to understand the potential of the site in facilitating these values.

This comprehensive information gives rise to a robust program that influences everything from material selection to the placement of water features, from the positioning of patios to optimizing circulation functionality. Throughout the design process, the program remains flexible, allowing for modifications, deletions, and additions as needed. This refinement process is pivotal to achieving the desired outcome.

CONSTRUCT

With the program in place, we embark on the practical side of designing by translating ideas onto paper. This initial stage involves harmonizing the specific direction indicated by the program with our commitment to classical design. While we steadfastly adhere to this approach, we maintain a flexible mindset during the conceptual phase, open and ready to receive and express ideas organically. 

We repeatedly sketch and explore concepts, gleefully filling trash bins with discarded tracing paper until we hone in on ideas that truly resonate. Even then, once an idea clicks, we hold onto it lightly, recognizing that it is just a concept — one that we eagerly present to the client. This presentation often represents one of the most gratifying moments in our process. Having invested considerable time in conversation, listening, observing, and shaping the design program, we finally have the opportunity to unveil the expression of our discoveries. The client waits and listens in anticipation as we present a potential future for them to enjoy. As the ideas are understood and the images comprehended, the wheels begin to turn. 

We see it, the client feels it, and the energy of collaboration truly comes to life. Feedback, discussion, and conversation culminate in the design concept presentation, which is often the most pivotal and productive meeting. Equipped with invaluable feedback and brimming with excitement, we embark on the revision process. The length of this process varies, depending on the unique nature of each project, and may require several meetings. Once the revision process is complete, we assemble the master plan, which may include more detailed drawings for effective visual communication. These drawings can range from artistic hand sketches to comprehensive construction documents. This visual clarity empowers everyone involved, from those bidding on the project to those involved in its construction.