It all starts with the site - each site is unique:

• where do you live - state, city, neighborhood?
• do you live in a high fire area?
• what kind of unique micro climates exist in your area, on your site?
• what kind of soil do you have?
• where is north in relation to your residence?
• where do you need sun, shade?
• how does wind impact your site?
• where does cold air settle?
• do adjacent buildings or plants shade your site?
• what is being irrigated on the other side of your property fence?
• is there runoff onto your site from neighbor's roofs, driveways, garages, other?
• how does water drain from or pool on your site?
• do you have gutters? how many downspouts? where does the water go?
• are there privacy or noise issues?
• what is the topography of your area and site - sloped, flat?
• do you have existing lawn and/or vegetation or are you starting from scratch?
• where are existing utility lines?
• where are the nooks, niches and lookouts - spots that feel comfortable, cozy, have views?
• how is the site, itself, asking to be treated?
• what are your needs/wants regarding how the space will be used and layed out?
• what are your immediate and long term goals for the site?

What Inspires You?

• what is your dream landscape?
• what kind of natural setting appeals to you? beach, redwood forest, open meadows, tropical waterfalls, woodland with streams?
• where did you grow up? what are your favorite places from childhood?
• what is your favorite vacationing location?
• what kind of spaces make you feel comfortable? do you prefer private, cozy, enclosed environments or lots of open space?
• what colors appeal to you?

How will the landscape relate to your house?

• what is the architectural style of your home?
• what color is your house? are you considering changing it in the near future?
• how will colors or materials used inside reflect in the landscape?
• is there existing hardscape that you would like to keep? what are the colors?
• what would you like to see from each window?
• what do existing doors open to? what would you like them to open to?
• do you need to create paths to access those doors or to traverse from one area of the house or yard to another?

Plants, Hardscape Features, Materials

• what kind of plants would you like to use? native, drought tolerant, other? Please look at my Plants page for ideas on plant palettes to use as points of departure - one palette can be used throughout or several can be used to create a variety of individual gardens.
• are you interested in incorporating fruit trees or areas for growing vegetables?
• what kind of hardscape elements would you like to include - walls, patios, walkways, shade cover, barbeque, water features?
• what kinds of paving materials - decomposed granite, gravel, flagstone, brick, pavers, tile, other? would you like to consider permeable paving options?

Budget, Scope of Work

• how much would you like to spend?
• will you implement the design all at once or in stages?
• will you be using a gardening service after the job is complete?
• would you like to learn how to care for your landscape yourself?