The Design Process

What to Expect

At Larkspur, we believe transparency leads to better partnerships. Here's our step-by-step process for transforming your outdoor space. Transforming your outdoor space should be exciting, not overwhelming. We know you might have questions like:

  • What should you expect when working with a garden designer?

  • How involved can you be in the design process?

  • What kind of maintenance will your new garden need?

  • How do we turn your vision into reality?

To bring clarity to our partnership, we've outlined our design process below. Our goal is to make this journey collaborative and transparent from start to finish.

1. Initial Consultation

  • Starts with a discovery phone call to discuss your vision

  • Followed by an in-person site visit where we:

    • Evaluate existing features and conditions

    • Discuss design preferences and ideas

    • Take photos and measurements

    • Review your budget goals

    We provide:

    • Initial plant palette

    • Project estimate including design fees

    • Timeline expectations

    • Discovery and Design Fee: $150

2. Design Development

  • Design fees based on project scope and complexity

  • Upon design payment:

    • Create detailed renderings

    • Develop comprehensive planting plans

    • Select materials and features

    • One complimentary revision included

  • Design process typically takes 3-4 weeks

  • Investment minimum: $5,000

3. Installation + Education

  • Signed contract and 50% deposit initiates installation phase

  • Includes:

    • Site preparation

    • Plant + Material sourcing and installation

    • Complete plant guide provided

    • Includes:

      • Plant identification

      • Care instructions

      • Maintenance guidelines

      • Seasonal tips

      • One year of educational support