Approach
Over the years, Matthew and his teams have developed a process that reduces stress for clients and increases the predictability of the work for all concerned.
Here is a quick overview of how the process typically flows…
1. Make Contact
This first and easiest step is for you to go to our Contact page and fill out the form which will tell us about your project.
2. Site Visit & Analysis
Next we’ll schedule a site visit, where together with Matthew you will analyze your property and discuss your needs. This involves walking through the entire property, understanding all the nooks and crannies, exploring the potential outdoor ‘rooms’ within. During this process, we’ll make sure to understand your needs and budget. We’ll explore linear versus fluid design options, as well as discuss the ideal plants that would thrive in your particular microclimate. Matthew will come away with a preliminary landscape concept which represents your tastes, while, at the same time, seamlessly integrates the design with the natural terrain.
3. Concept & Bid
You’ll receive a bid proposal that breaks down all the aspects of the job, including: a detailed list of all the plants to be introduced by their scientific and common names; linear & square footage of the hardscape and softscape areas; materials to be used, along with estimated quantity and cost, including multiple options and phasing of landscape development such that the entire project budget is phased in according to a affordable timeline.
4. Site preparation & installation
Matthew will be the principle designer for your project as well as the plant specialist for your projects. His dedicated team includes experts in: masonry, carpentry, irrigation, water catchment, and landscape lighting. His ground team will come in and clear all areas necessary for the implementation of the landscape design.
5. Soil Preparation
One of the most important aspects of site preparation is soil preparation - Matthew’s team will install organic, composted materials, as well as heavily micro-nutrient rich fertilizers into your soil as this is the foundation for a healthy, thriving garden.
6. Hardscape Construction
After the groundwork has established, we’ll then move into hardscape construction, which includes the installation of decks, steps, retaining walls, patios, gazebos, fences, ponds, water features, etc.
7. Softscape Construction
After the hardscaping is complete, we then move into softscape construction, which includes plant design & installation, irrigation, mulching, turf, and lighting.
8. Fine Tuning
Once the primary work is done, we then move into refining and fine-tuning the final landscape design. This can involve enhancements such as the addition of container planters to add focal points and accents to one's garden, the addition of sculptures, fire bowls, water sculpture, lighting, anything that relates to the the adornment aspect of the design.