27,286 Landscape Architects and Landscape Designers

What is a landscape architect?

Landscape architects, who typically hold advanced degrees in their field, are trained to develop comprehensive structural plans that include plants, hardscaping, water use, drainage and more. They can also design any structure that will be added to the landscape, such as sheds, gazebos, retaining walls and other garden features.

They work primarily through design drawings and collaborate with other professionals such as architects and tradespeople to ensure the house and landscape work in harmony together.
He or she develops concepts for landscape construction based on individual needs, the climate, site conditions and the activities that will be performed in the space. They are also required to evaluate grading plans and technical details for drainage, materials, finishes and layout dimensions.

Like building architects, they will produce preliminary concept drawings as well as detailed construction documents. 3-D renderings and illustrative plans are all supplementary.

What is a landscape designer?

Landscape designers generally specialise in aesthetics and horticulture, rather than structural garden design and planning. Keeping in mind both style and functionality, landscape designers analyse your architecture and yard to produce a plan that may or may not include location and materials for walkways, patios, water features, fences, garden aspects and more. In addition, a garden designer will carefully assess your geographic region to choose plants, trees and flowers that will flourish naturally, as well as address concerns such as drainage, screening and soil conditions.

Certain landscape designers only help with landscape planning, some may deliver the plans and then oversee a hired landscape contractor, and others – typically following a design-build approach – take care of both the design and all aspects of the landscape construction.

What should I consider when hiring a landscaping professional?

Consider the scope and emphasis of your project. Some professionals may only specialise in large properties, while others may specialise in small, urban courtyards. Also ensure the professionals on your shortlist are familiar with the climate and plants that do well there.

With so many specialty areas and expertise among professionals, it’s important that you speak to several to get an idea of the services they offer. You may only need someone who specialises in paving or plant-focused designs, for example. Finally, contemplate your capacity for gardening and whether a gardener would be needed to keep up with your new yard. A good landscaping professional will outline what garden maintenance will be required.

Questions to ask a prospective landscape architects or designers:

What is your certification?

Do you have liability insurance?

How much do you charge, and what do your services include?

What regions and climates are you skilled in?

What is your experience with similar projects?

When can you complete this project?

Who will be working on the project design?

What happens when costs exceed budget, whether due to materials or labour pricing changes? What about changes made by the client or by the professionals — what kinds of situations would cause those costs to be incurred?

Can you provide me with a written estimate?

What will I need to provide?

Do you foresee any complications with this project?

Find a residential architect or designer on Houzz. Houzz is a great place to start your search for the right landscape architect and designer. Browse professionals’ latest projects, read reviews, and narrow down your search based on your style preferences and method of working.

Here are some related professionals and vendors to complement the work of landscape architects & landscape designers: Landscape Contractors & Gardeners, Garden & Landscape Supplies, Arborists & Tree Services, Lawn & Sprinklers, Decking & Patios.