Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for answers? We have some common questions listed below.
When will I see my design?
The approximate “start date” is listed on your design contract. At that point your designer will be focused on your project. The amount of time it takes to design the first draft will vary on the size of the project and various factors but usually we are presenting between two to four weeks after starting.
Do I have to come to your office to see it?
Yes, but it’s definitely worth the trip! At our office your designer has a big screen to display a 3D walkthrough of your project, samples of materials, the availability of Project Managers and Mark Meahl (The Garden View President) readily available to help you understand the design and process as well as contribute ideas/decisions. After 40 years of presenting landscape designs we have found it to be infinitely more efficient when done at our facilities with all of these resources available.
Who is my designer?
Your designer will be assigned to your project roughly 2 weeks before the design start date based on location and availability. They will reach out to introduce themselves and discuss next steps.
Is someone coming over to measure my property?
Yep. Your designer and design consultant will meet to communicate your taste, goals and interests; after which the designer will perform measurements and a site survey.
What is a WAG anyway?
It is the super rough estimate of what the whole project discussed might cost, or in other words a “Wild Ass Guess!” It may be crude but it’s the most accurate title for a budget created during a consultation. Our estimators spend 50-100 hours, with a design in hand, to get a proposable cost.
What if I don’t like my design?
Don’t worry, revisions are normal. While it is very uncommon someone doesn’t like their design, adjustments and alternative ideas are worked out often. While our design contract states 2 revisions are included in the price, our goal is to find your vision so we can get on to the fun part, building it!
What kind of format will I get my design in?
At our office you will be able to real-time navigate through your design (even walkthrough the design in Virtual Reality with our Occulus Rift). For your reference you will receive a printed plan as well as 3D render photos/video in digital format.
What’s next?
Once your design is approved our estimating team begins the detailed process of putting together costs and building your install proposal. When reviewing the proposal you will be able to make selections based on taste and budget. Once signed we take a deposit for the permits and are off to the races.
How long will everything else take?
This is the question to which there is really no single answer. Scope of project, time of year, design revisions, proposal revisions and permits are all variables that can have a major impact on how fast a project moves along.