Certainly. Landscapes can definitely be a DIY project for many. So when I design for you to DIY, how does it differ from any other design?
Landscape Design for DIY Installation:
Elements. I won’t design an element that I know you should not tackle yourself. This means, for example, that while I can include a fountain or bubbler I won’t include koi pond.
Materials. I’ll choose materials that generally require less skill. Pavers, for example, are hard labor to install but don’t require advanced skill. Natural stone patios, on the other hand, will either be done by a professional or will be ugly and uneven. And if pavers feel like too much we can consider gravel.
Equipment. We will discuss what kind of equipment you are comfortable using. If you can use a Bobcat, great! I’ll be able to include larger boulders or other elements that require heavy lifting.
Budget. Even with all your sweat equity we need to take budget into account. You might feel confident installing dimensional bluestone, but will it break your budget?
It’s good to consider not just your limitations, but also the design’s. The design will show you where key elements should go, list what materials you need, and tell you what plants to buy. But it won’t tell you how to install the materials, exactly how much you will need, or where to buy the plants. Some of that information may be included in the documents that accompany the design, but there will still be much to figure out yourself!
Why can’t the design include all that information? Designers don’t specify how a landscape gets built, landscape contractors do. And while I can refer you to suppliers and nurseries, I can’t always be sure that they will have the materials you need when you need them.
So is DIY landscape design for you? Do you want to install your garden but just don’t know how to get started? Contact Ben today for a free landscape design consultation.
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