Design Process

3D rendering of contemporary Portland backyard design featuring wood deck, outdoor dining area and drought-tolerant plantings
Modern Portland front entry landscape design 3D visualization showing geometric paver patio and container plantings
Contemporary Portland landscape design 3D rendering featuring studio building, outdoor seating area with fire pit and drought-tolerant plantings
Contemporary Portland patio design with built-in grill, modern pergola structure and low-maintenance potted plantings
3D rendering of contemporary Portland backyard with fire pit, wooden pergola and deck, and raised planter beds with architectural plantings

All good gardens start with a plan. I tailor every concept to the unique needs of each client and their site, beginning with an initial conversation that launches the process.

Getting Started

We'll meet on-site to discuss your vision, walk through your space, and explore what's possible. After our initial consultation, I'll create a design proposal that recaps your specific goals and provides a clear price based on your project scope.

The Design Journey

Once you're ready to move forward, I begin by measuring your site and inventorying existing conditions—what stays, what goes, and what opportunities the space offers. If helpful, we'll have a follow-up conversation to address any additional questions, and I'll ask you to share inspiration photos or a Pinterest board of gardens you love.

With this foundation, I’ll get the creative juices flowing and combine them with my design experience to develop a custom plan using CAD technology and 3D renderings that respond directly to your goals and site challenges. You'll see an initial design concept, share your feedback, and I'll refine the plan until it's exactly right. For most projects that means deciding on a hardscape plan first along with a basic plant palette. A final design will include a detailed planting plan and plant list.

The typical timeline is 4-8 weeks, depending on the season and your schedule.

Bringing It to Life

What happens after the design is complete? As a licensed planting contractor, I can provide an estimate for all softscape elements in the final plan. For hardscapes and carpentry, I'll connect you with trusted licensed contractors who can build those components. Together, we will coordinate the work to bring your garden to life.

Investment

Design fees depend on project scope and typically range from $500 for a small front yard plan up to $4,000 for a comprehensive property redesign with renderings. This covers the design work itself—installation costs are separate and determined once the design is complete. Throughout the process, I promise to be transparent about costs and design within your target budget.

Portland residential landscape 2D design plan showing front and side yard layout with native plant palette and sustainable hardscape materials

Let’s Work Together

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