Planning a backyard remodel is no easy task, nor is it cheap. From the initial launch to the final completion date, expect to create budgets, timelines, orders for shipping materials, layouts, blueprints, and more. Of course, many homeowners prefer to outsource this work to a trained professional, i.e., a landscape designer. Yet, if you take that route, don’t be surprised when you get the final bill.
Landscape design is often more expensive than homeowners first realize because it’s such an involved process. Landscape designers use specialized tools and knowledge to analyze, conceptualize, and design properties around plant life that will thrive in the local environment. And, finally, landscape design is a continuing process—not a one-time fee.
Despite the cost of landscape design, it’s often the best way to complete a backyard remodel that’s aesthetic, professional, and built in accordance with the local ecosystem. So, if you’re questioning whether the results justify the cost, continue reading below to discover what professional landscape design involves and how it can benefit your property.
DIY Backyard Remodels vs Profession Landscape Design
There’s undoubtedly a point in any backyard remodel when homeowners consider going at it alone. While it’s sometimes possible if they have the right skills and experience, most realize that they need additional support to turn their vision into a reality. This is where landscape design comes in.
Landscape designers have the skills and experience to take on projects of any size, from smaller yards to large commercial properties. Using their knowledge, they can develop a plan that meets the client’s needs while also staying within their budget and timeline. And, best of all, landscape designers usually have the connections needed to source specific plants and affordable contractors.
Read: What’s The Difference Between A Landscape Architect And A Landscape Designer?
The Process of Landscape Design Adds to the Price
Professional landscape design isn’t an overnight process. It takes an understanding of the local soil and climate, as well as an aesthetic eye for spatial design. All of these factors contribute to an expensive service. In general, a typical landscape design project will go through the following steps:
- Initial consultation: During this initial meeting, the landscape designer will assess the property, listen to the client’s vision, and get an understanding of the budget. This meeting usually lasts between 1-2 hours.
- Site analysis and measurements: The landscape designer will then take a closer look at the property, taking measurements and notes along the way. This step is important for understanding the property’s contours, drainage, and sun exposure.
- Conceptualization: With the site analysis complete, the landscape designer can start to conceptualize the project. This usually includes creating a sketch or two of the proposed design.
- Design development: Once the client has approved the conceptual design, the landscape designer will start to develop a more detailed plan. This plan will include a planting list, a construction schedule, and a budget.
- Construction: If the client decides to move forward with the project, the landscape designer will work with a contractor to bring the project to life.
Even after completing the project, you may still work with a weekly lawn care service to maintain the property, adding to the overall cost of landscape design.
Read: How Do I Landscape My Backyard On A Budget?
The Benefits of Working with a Professional
While landscape design is an expensive service, there are several benefits that make it worth the cost. These benefits include:
- Aesthetics: A trained landscape designer will have an eye for design and understand how to use plants, hardscapes, and other features to create a beautiful and cohesive space.
- Functionality: A well-designed landscape should be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. A landscape designer will take into account the property’s contours, drainage, and sun exposure to ensure that the final design is functional.
- Plant Knowledge: Not all plants are created equal. A landscape designer will know which plants will thrive in the local climate and soil and which ones will require more maintenance.
- Construction Knowledge: A landscape designer will also be familiar with the construction process and can help to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget.
- Connections: Landscape designers usually have a network of contractors, nurseries, and suppliers that they work with on a regular basis. This network can help to keep costs down and ensure that the project is completed efficiently.
Best of all, when you choose to work with a professional, you can outsource much of the labor to people who know what they’re doing. This way, you can rest easy knowing that your property is in good hands.
Read: Why Retaining Walls Collapse?
An Investment in Professional Landscape Design is an Investment in Your Home’s Value
While landscape design is an expensive service, it’s also an investment in your home. A well-designed landscape can increase your property value, making it a worthwhile expense. A study conducted by the National Association of Realtors found that a professionally designed and installed landscape can increase a home’s value by up to 20%.
In fact, the same study found that for every dollar invested in landscape design, the homeowner can expect to see a return of up to five dollars. And, not only does professional landscape design increase your home’s value, but it can also help to sell your home faster. In the same study, it was found that homes with well-designed landscapes sold 32% faster than homes without them.
Read: What Is The Cheapest Way To Landscape A Backyard?
The True Cost of Landscape Design
So, how much will landscape design actually cost you at the end of the day?
The answer, unfortunately, is that it depends. The cost of landscape design will vary depending on the size of the property, the complexity of the design, the materials used, and the location. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $5,000 and $10,000 for landscape design. However, for more complex projects, the cost can rise to $15,000 or more.
Read: Why Should I Build Retaining Wall?
The Bottom Line
When it comes to landscape design, you really do get what you pay for. A well-designed landscape will not only increase your home’s value but also provide you with a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.