If you are a transplant to the southwest, it can be absolutely baffling to figure out what plants grow here, what can handle the sun, how to water it and how to pull it all together. Not only can these tasks be daunting but they can be costly as well. Landscaping is an investment and a design plan will help take the guess work out of creating a landscape that is colorful, water savvy and tailored to your needs.

You may not know the plants but often there are general considerations within the layout: like kitchen spaces, vegetable gardens, kids play spaces and so on. It s important to make your wishes known because there are many designers out there that want to make your yard exactly how they want it.

My philosophy as a landscape designer is to not only provide insightful ideas about what could be done with a space, but to educate a customer about what they really can accomplish with their landscaping. For example: adding energy efficiency to their home by properly placing a large shade tree, and redirecting or harvesting rainwater to be used in tree wells or planting beds.

It s also important to talk about budget. There is nothing more frustrating than receiving a plan that is far too busy, doesn t address your needs and blows the budget when the bids come in. Keep in mind that most contractors will assist you in creating phases for your new landscape so you can budget each portion of the plan.

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