What Is a Landscape Architect?

The work of the landscape architect can pretty much be summarized to include everything that is not related to the house structure itself. The landscape architect can even work with the architect to choose the right spot for your house. From there he or she will develop preliminary concepts for your landscaping, based on individual needs, the climate and the activities that will be performed in the yard, as well as designs and planting plans. The landscape architect will also design any structures or outbuildings that will be added to the landscape. Any grading changes that will be added to the landscape are also the responsibility of the landscape architect. This includes any drainage modifications. An engineer can also be responsible for these tasks, but a licensed landscape architect is fully capable. Like building architects, landscape architects will produce preliminary concept drawings as well as detailed construction documents and planting plans. Three-dimensional renderings and illustrative plans are all supplementary.

What Is a Landscape Designer?

Landscape designers generally have ecological, aesthetic and technical training, which helps them maximize the potential of your outdoor space. Keeping in mind both style and functionality, landscape designers analyze 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 landscape 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 develop the plans, 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 installation.

Before you hire a landscape professional, consider the scope and emphasis of your project. 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. Landscape designers typically specialize in the aesthetic and horticultural, rather than structural, side of yard and garden planning. They might or might not have advanced training. Even within their fields, designers may specialize in hardscape- or vegetation-focused designs. In some cases you might need to hire additional help to get the outdoor space you want. Here are some related professionals and vendors to complement the work of landscape architects & designers: Landscape Contractors, Garden and Landscape Supplies, Tree Services, Lawn & Sprinklers, Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures.

Questions to ask a prospective landscape architect or designer:

• Can you provide me with references?
  
• How long have you been in the business?
  
• What is your certification?
  
• Do you have liability insurance?
  
• How much do you charge, and what does that include?
  
• What regions and climates are you skilled in?
  
• Can you accommodate my special requests (such as ADA or LEED)?
  
• What types of renderings will you produce?
  
• What is your experience with similar projects?
  
• When can you complete this project?
  
• What do your services include?
  
• Who will be working on the project design?
  
• What happens when costs exceed budget, whether due to materials or labor 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?
  
• Are there any important considerations or concerns that you know of or that might come up in the future with this project?
  

Find a landscape architect on Houzz. Narrow your search in the Professionals section of the website to landscape architects and designers. You can also look through photos to find a space you like, then contact the landscape architect who posted the photo.