Who Lives Here?
Even a modest lot in Palo Alto can accommodate a bocce court.
It’s a given that anyone commissioning a custom landscape design for their home wants it to be beautiful.
But the best landscape architects do more than just create visually appealing spaces—they create unique places that respond to the unique wishes, needs, lifestyle, resources, and constraints of the people who live there.
The designer starts by attentively listening to the homeowner’s desires and aspirations for their outdoor space. We begin our process with a brief phone call to understand what the owner would like to achieve with their new landscaping: A fresh look? A more efficient layout? New functionalities, such as a swimming pool? We also ask about budget and timeline, which inform the landscape architect’s choices throughout the design process.
The landscape architect may follow up with an in-person consultation to gather even more information about how the owner wants to live outdoors: activities they want to enjoy, the ambiance they envision, any preferences for styles and colors, and their dreams and expectations, no matter how lavish. (We can’t literally bring Bali into the backyard, but we know the request is really for a lush environment that provides serene relaxation… minus the mosquitoes.)
Functionality is a crucial consideration in the landscape design. Every element of the design should serve a purpose, whether it’s enhancing relaxation, entertainment, children's activities, or gardening. Even areas that simply “look good” fulfill the vital function of providing aesthetic pleasure, just as a fine painting is pleasing to gaze at.
The landscape architect also considers how to optimize available resources, both materially and financially. We collaborate closely with the homeowner to establish a budget that aligns with their finances; then thoughtfully develop design concepts, water-efficient solutions, and low-maintenance options that will minimize long-term costs and environmental impact.
Many landscape architects take on these constraints as a creative challenge. The experienced designer deftly selects plant varieties suited to the local microclimate; solves for usability and drainage challenges on uneven terrain; and ensures the owner’s finite budget is applied first to their most important wishes and needs, to provide the best value for their investment.
Throughout the design process, the landscape architect fosters effective communication to keep the home owner involved in the decision-making. Regular updates and feedback sessions ensure that the design evolves in line with expectations. The designer provides professional guidance and expertise, always keeping the owner's satisfaction at the forefront of the project. And ultimately, the meticulously crafted outdoor space reflects and amplifies the lives that it serves.