What to Expect When Calling Agassiz for Design/Build Services

Whether this is your first time looking to hire a contractor or you're a seasoned pro, here is a description of what to expect when you give us a call.

1. Initial one on one meeting with client

This is probably the most important step of the entire process. Being a landscape designer is 100% a service oriented profession, and it’s is important for us that we listen to what you are looking for in terms of landscaping needs, budget, personal design preferences, how you will use the space, how much time you're willing to spend maintaining it, etc. I try not to impose too many personal opinions at this point, but rather ask a lot of questions and really try to get to know the person I’m going to be working for.

From here, we will brainstorm ideas together, offering potential solutions to the problems you might be experiencing. I find that a hands on approach is very helpful when trying to express ideas. I will often sketch out a rough design on the spot or physically mark out different elements on your property. Getting this feedback early on helps to improve my understanding of what you are looking for and reduces the need to make design revisions later on.

2. Pre-design estimate

Now that we’ve gained an understanding of what your landscaping needs are, we will take all necessary measurements of the site in order to create the most accurate estimate possible. We then create an estimate based off of these measurements that breaks down the costs associated with each portion of the project. This allows you to see how costs are allocated and makes it easier to break up your project into future phases if need be.

Agassiz commonly works within a variety of budgets and is experienced with developing “value engineering” strategies, helping to make your vision a reality. From here, some simpler projects (such as a small perennial garden or a straightforward driveway) might not require a drafted design; however, larger projects and projects where there are a lot of variables will greatly benefit from a formal design (see next step!).

3. Design phase

Next is the fun part—creating the design! The factors that inform our design choices are rooted equally in satisfying the client’s needs and style preferences as well as referencing the environment in which it will be built in. Thoughtfully considering the context of the design, weather it is a 10 acre master plan or a simple backyard patio, is what creates a quality product--one that not only looks like it belongs, but functions for years to come.

4. Secondary meeting & revisions

Typically once the design is finished, a second meeting will be scheduled to discuss the design, materials used, timeline, etc., and go over any revisions that need to take place. We might bring along a can a spray paint during this meeting to line out exactly what your design will look like. Sometimes three or four meetings must take place in order to come up with a plan and budget that is agreeable. If there is something you feel isn't quite right about your design, this is the time to make sure it is discussed. Once an agreement has been made, we can move forward with contract signing and get you on our schedule!