Landscape Planning Guide for 2015

indianapolis landscaping gardenerMake your dream landscape design part of your New Year’s resolutions with these five easy steps.

It’s that time of year again … when you countdown to midnight on Dec. 31, and then write down all those things you want to do in the New Year. You know the drill … lose weight, exercise more or maybe spend more time with family.

But what about all those landscaping projects and renovations that keep calling your name every year? They need some attention, too! In fact, now is the perfect time to take stock of your outdoor living space and plan for the year. And we’re here to help. Take a look at our Landscape Planning Guide for 2015.

Assess your needs. Get started by identifying what you want from your outdoor living space. Do you want to be able to entertain guests and accommodate large groups? Are you a gardener, and will you want to cultivate flower beds and plants, or would you rather have low-maintenance features? And what about open spaces – do you want areas in which to exercise, meditate or just sit back and look at the stars? These are all things to consider as you create your landscaping plan.

Dream big. Most homeowners have specific beds, trees or existing landscapes that they love. And then they have areas that they just can’t stand or are in great need of attention. Take stock of what it is you like (or can live with), and what absolutely has to be changed, improved or destroyed. Then list, in order, what your dream outdoor living space would include. Even though you might not be able to afford to make all the changes on your list immediately, it will help to know where you should concentrate your efforts first. Some of the features you might want to consider include:

  • Hardscaping
  • Pavers, natural stone, retaining walls
  • Gardens
  • Landscape installations
  • Water features
  • Irrigation systems
  • Lighting
  • Designer art sculptures and elements
  • Arbors

Develop a budget. This is probably the hardest thing for most homeowners to do, as it’s difficult to even know where to begin. Of course, landscaping costs vary greatly by markets and size of projects. According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, a ballpark figure for larger projects is 5-10 percent of your home’s worth. Keep in mind that a professional landscape design can add as much as 15 percent more value to your home, when compared to other properties in your area.

Consult a professional. While there are plenty of projects that you feel you can do yourself, consulting a professional will help you realize the possibilities (and limitations) of your outdoor space. Our experienced team members will create a custom design that can be done all at once, or in phases to fit your budget and needs. We will take into consideration your lifestyle and priorities in order to provide a comprehensive plan to suit your personality and property.

What do you think?

While focusing on self-improvement is a given during this time of year, developing goals for your home – and your lawn and garden in particular – can improve your quality of life and the value of your property. This is the perfect time of year to get started.

We’d love to know more about your landscaping resolutions. What features are on your wish-list, and what areas do you find more challenging or overwhelming? Leave any comments or questions below.