Our Process

Design Methodology

Our approach to creating landscapes that heal, restore, and endure.

What happens in the discovery and site-analysis phase?

We begin by understanding your vision, site conditions, and the ecological context of your property. Typically 2–3 weeks.

This phase includes initial consultations, site visits, soil lab panels (accredited regional labs), microclimate data logging, existing vegetation inventory, and analysis of sun, wind, and water patterns. When scale warrants, we commission orthomosaic mapping from UAV surveys, and we observe the site across seasons when project timelines allow.

What does the concept design phase produce?

We develop the overarching design vision — spatial organization, material direction, and planting character. Typically 3–4 weeks.

Concept designs include 2–3 schematic alternatives with site plans, atmospheric imagery, material palettes, and preliminary planting concepts. We present in a single client workshop and select a direction for development. Drawings produced in AutoCAD and Rhino; visualization in Photoshop and Lumion.

How does design development refine the concept?

We refine the approved concept into detailed plans with specific materials, grading, and spatial dimensions. Typically 6–10 weeks.

Design development produces detailed site plans, grading and drainage plans, hardscape details, and refined planting zones. We coordinate with architects, structural and civil engineers, arborists, and irrigation consultants. Drawings issued in AutoCAD; 3D coordination in Rhino or SketchUp for complex conditions.

What does planting design include?

We compose the complete plant palette — species, quantities, sizes, and seasonal performance. Typically 4–6 weeks.

Planting designs specify every plant by species, cultivar, size, and exact location. Bloom sequences, foliage textures, fragrance zones, and wildlife value are mapped across four seasons. Palettes prioritize regional natives and documented keystone species per Xerces Society and Doug Tallamy research; provenance is specified for restoration projects.

What does a landscape construction-documents set cover?

We produce construction-ready documents and manage regulatory submissions. Typically 4–8 weeks; CD sets of 40–80 sheets.

Full documentation packages include construction details, specifications, planting plans, irrigation layouts, and material schedules. For wetland, coastal, and conservation-area projects, we coordinate permitting with NY DEC, local conservation boards, wetland scientists, and municipal agencies. Specifications written to CSI MasterFormat conventions.

What does construction administration involve?

We oversee construction to protect design intent and ensure quality execution. Runs parallel with installation.

During construction, we conduct regular site visits, review submittals and shop drawings, approve material samples, oversee hardscape layout and plant placement, and maintain daily coordination with the GC, landscape contractor, and specialty trades. RFI logs and punch lists tracked through a shared project management platform.

How long does landscape installation take?

We direct the installation of all landscape elements — hardscape, planting, and site furnishings. Typically 4–16 weeks depending on scale.

We work with selected contractors and nurseries to source the highest quality materials and plants. Installation aligns with spring and fall planting windows in the Northeast. During install, we approve plant stock on delivery, direct placement of every specimen, supervise soil prep and amendment, and sign off on post-install watering protocols.

What does seasonal stewardship include?

We remain involved as your landscape matures, guiding its evolution over time. Ongoing; typically 2–4 site visits per year.

Stewardship programs include quarterly site visits, seasonal rotation planning, plant health assessments, soil biology monitoring, invasive species management, and sourcing replacement stock. Ecological maturity typically shows within 2–3 years on planting-driven projects; full visual resolution between 5–7 years.

What happens in the discovery and site-analysis phase?

We begin by understanding your vision, site conditions, and the ecological context of your property. Typically 2–3 weeks.

What does the concept design phase produce?

We develop the overarching design vision — spatial organization, material direction, and planting character. Typically 3–4 weeks.

How does design development refine the concept?

We refine the approved concept into detailed plans with specific materials, grading, and spatial dimensions. Typically 6–10 weeks.

What does planting design include?

We compose the complete plant palette — species, quantities, sizes, and seasonal performance. Typically 4–6 weeks.

What does a landscape construction-documents set cover?

We produce construction-ready documents and manage regulatory submissions. Typically 4–8 weeks; CD sets of 40–80 sheets.

What does construction administration involve?

We oversee construction to protect design intent and ensure quality execution. Runs parallel with installation.

How long does landscape installation take?

We direct the installation of all landscape elements — hardscape, planting, and site furnishings. Typically 4–16 weeks depending on scale.

What does seasonal stewardship include?

We remain involved as your landscape matures, guiding its evolution over time. Ongoing; typically 2–4 site visits per year.

Design Methodology

01. Discovery and Site Analysis−

What happens in the discovery and site-analysis phase?

02. Concept Design+

03. Design Development+

04. Planting Design+

05. Documentation and Permitting+

06. Construction Administration+

07. Installation and Planting+

08. Seasonal Stewardship+

Design Methodology

01. Discovery and Site Analysis−

What happens in the discovery and site-analysis phase?

02. Concept Design+

03. Design Development+

04. Planting Design+

05. Documentation and Permitting+

06. Construction Administration+

07. Installation and Planting+

08. Seasonal Stewardship+