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The Creation of a Comprehensive Master Plan
No two projects are exactly the same, but our process usually involves
the following stages for the creation of a complete master plan
for a property.
1. Inventory and Analysis
We begin with an initial site consultation that includes
a visit to the property and a meeting with the clients; one of the
goals of this process is to create a “wish list” that
captures the client’s priorities and takes advantage of the
site’s unique possibilities. We then offer a number of tangible
suggestions for what a site master plan might include and follow
this with an initial proposal for our design services.
2. Recommendation of Site Survey
We next recommend a site survey (produced by a licensed surveyor)
for clients who do not already have one. A site survey records all
existing conditions to scale; from it we interpret the site’s
potentials and constraints.
3. Design Development Phase
Now we coordinate the wish list with reality. After we receive
the survey, we work with the client in a series of meetings to present
and discuss design concepts, and we return to the site for further
study. We encourage the client’s active involvement.
For example, we guide clients through an exploration of possible
building materials, color palettes and plant materials.
Discussions about aesthetic concerns dovetail with the practical
features of site design including grading, drainage and planting
arrangements.
Throughout this process, we draw and hand-color a series
of large, schematic, tissue-paper overlays that show the client
our concepts as we refine the landscape design based on their responses
and feedback. We often use photographs and hand-colored perspective
drawings to clarify what the end result will look like. During this
process, we collaborate with all key players on the project, especially
the client’s architect, builder and often the interior designer.
Each property has its own set of building and zoning criteria
that vary from region to region. We check on local permit requirements
and set backs to ensure that all designs are permissible. Using
the synergy of this intensely creative process and adding our own
decades of experience to it, we develop a final master plan
for the property.
4. The Master Plan
The master plan is a large, detailed drawing that maps out
all new design treatments on the property and integrates them with
existing features. A complete master plan is the culmination of
an exciting collaborative effort. Each one also reflects our fundamental
design philosophy and mission as landscape architects.
5. Working Drawings
With the client’s approval of the master plan, the final
phase of the design process begins. We create an extensive set
of working drawings that will be used on the site during
construction. A host of different builders, craftsmen and specialists
are required to make dreams become reality. Hence, many different
sheets of drawings, created to scale, are needed for contractors
to follow and also to produce a final cost estimate.
At this point, we use computer-aided design and sophisticated
software programs to produce the extremely detailed plans that enable
accurate implementation of the master plan, down to the smallest
detail in planting beds, paving patterns, lighting or irrigation.
Learn
more about the types of working drawings we provide.
6. Consultation: Before, During and After Construction
Our decades of experience in landscape architecture is extremely
useful to clients. Sometimes the layout of site structures, grading,
heights of walls and bed edging, drainage basin locations and construction
minutiae can be misinterpreted, despite accurate, detailed drawings.
To be sure everything goes according to plan, we are available to
work on the site. We don’t supervise or direct construction;
we observe how the plans are being followed and make suggestions
as needed. We also encourage phone calls with any question at any
time. Our design studio is proud of its working relationship with
builders, architects and craftsmen; the quality of each final project
is our hallmark.
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