Why we should connect

You are open to new design concepts that create a unique, beautiful, and ecologically rich landscape

You care about land restoration, on-site water retention and improving soil health

You want to use locally-sourced and regenerative materials when possible

You’d like to create a landscape that contains at least 75% California native plant species to help support local pollinator and wildlife populations

You are interested in potentially harvesting food and herbs from the land around you

You understand that all landscapes need at least a little stewardship and are willing to maintain it yourself or hire someone to do general upkeep as the landscape naturally changes over time

You appreciate your thoughts being heard throughout a clear and collaborative design process

Design Process

Meet on site

We begin with a conversation to discuss challenges and opportunities, paired with an on-site visit to measure, map and evaluate current conditions of the landscape. If you’d like to schedule an initial consultation, please first fill out this client intake form. A consultation costs $150 for a visit lasting up to 2 hours (see here for city rebate). If you decide to move forward with the full design process, that amount is included in the full cost of the design. For a free phone consultation, give me a call at (916) 426-6244.

Write up proposal

If you would like to move ahead with a full design, you will receive a design proposal including a scope of work and an estimate, then we sign a work agreement. If you don’t want a full design but still want some extra help (like a recommended plant list, or DIY suggestions), I can tailor the work to your specific needs.

Draw concepts

Once we have a work agreement, I develop a base plan of your site, along with two to three conceptual drawings that depict the primary hardscape and plant elements. We then meet to determine a direction to move toward, and brainstorm some preliminary material and plant preferences.

Design final plans

After determining more of the fine details, I will develop the following drawings based on your requests and the needs of your site:

  • hardscape plan

  • planting plan

  • irrigation/hydrozone plan

  • lighting plan

  • demolition and construction plan+notes for contractors

Estimate project

Once the plans have been finalized and approved, I will refer you to trusted landscape contractors to bid on your project. I will work with you and the contractor(s) to make sure the price is right, and adjust elements of the design as necessary.

Install landscape

Once an installation estimate has been approved and a contract for install signed, I will assist your contractor(s) with on-site design layout, special materials procurement, plant placement, and development of a tailored watering schedule.

Follow up

After the installation is complete, I will make follow-up visits to ensure plants are maturing well and that the site is functioning as planned.