Check Out Some Projects Below!
Entertainer’s Dream
Cozy Corners
Terraced Oasis
Happy Hour
Rustic Retreat
Swiss Stone Bluff
Morning Coffee
Hearth Haven
StoneVista Landscape Design offers creative design services rivaling the best in the industry, and professional installation at a competitive price. We minimize costs through our streamlined business model, passing those savings directly on to you. I coordinate with a network of skilled contractors, handling every detail so you get top-notch service without the premium price tag.
Being your point of contact for your new outdoor project, there’s not much I can’t handle for the installation. I assemble the talent to make your dream outdoor space happen. From pools, pavilions, garden design, patios, retaining walls or all of the above – if I design it, I can make it happen.
Design & Install
Every successful landscape installation requires a well-thought-out design. I offer complimentary design services when you choose me for your installation project. Once your down payment is received, the custom design is yours to own, and we’ll schedule your installation. I handle all aspects of the project, from start to finish, maintaining open communication throughout every step of the process.
Design
From concept to completion, I can help bring your project to life. Whether you have a contractor, are a contractor, prefer DIY, or just need a solid design plan, I offer flexible services to fit your needs. If your plans change, I’m happy to coordinate the installation. We can explore various design options, including construction plans, renderings, and even immersive 3D video flythroughs, to visualize your project perfectly.
Share Your Project With Me!
Tips From A Designer:
Involve A Designer Early
Deck Details
There are some nice benefits to involving your landscape designer before your deck is constructed. Building a deck without consulting a landscape designer can lead to missed opportunities and extra costs. Common issues I see as a designer include problems with footing heights, deck step landing locations, circulation patterns, privacy and under decking.
1. Footing placement is a prime example. Deck builders typically install footings level with the existing grade. If your yard slopes and you later decide to add a patio beneath the deck, adjusting the grade can become more costly. Those fixed footing heights can result in buried or exposed deck posts, so it often requires a retaining wall to make the patio work, which, otherwise could have been avoided.
2. While deck and step placement is largely a matter of personal taste, planning these elements in advance can prevent future regrets. My goal is to help homeowners avoid the “I wish we’d thought of that sooner” scenario. Once a deck and its steps are built, they become a fixed element that a landscape designer must work around. Engaging a designer early in the process allows the deck to be integrated into a cohesive overall plan. This approach optimizes step placement, sun and shade considerations, views, circulation, and privacy, resulting in a more harmonious and functional landscape.
3. Quick tip for those planning a two-story deck: Decide on under-decking before construction! Installing a waterproof system between the joists and decking is much easier and more effective when done upfront. Retrofitting under-decking later requires a different approach, often with increased risk of leaks and other issues.
Fence Considerations
While existing fences are often unavoidable, if you’re building a new home or planning a new fence, I strongly recommend making it the last step in your landscape construction schedule. Installing a fence before landscape construction can create unexpected costs and limitations, complicating drainage and restricting how we shape the land. A fence essentially locks in the ground level along its path, preventing grading adjustments unless it’s removed and rebuilt. If a fence must be installed before landscaping, please consider consulting a landscape designer first and including a double gate on at least one side of the house for future machine access. Without it, you likely would incur additional costs for hand labor and/or fence removal and repairs.
Tree Placement
Homeowners, especially in new builds, often rush to plant trees. However, tree placement and selection is crucial for maximizing usable space, privacy, and proper grading. If possible, work with your builder to postpone tree planting and allow your landscape designer to oversee this process. Your designer can collaborate with the builder to address any concerns and ensure the trees are placed strategically within the overall landscape plan.
- Even tree species matter. Consider the potential for tree litter and root problems. For example, while the popular Autumn Blaze Maple offers fast growth, beautiful fall color, and excellent privacy for edges of properties, but its shallow roots can create mowing difficulties and tripping hazards, especially in high-traffic areas. Similarly, fruit trees planted near patios can drop messy fruit and debris, potentially staining the patio surfaces and require more maintenance.
- A planted tree becomes a fixed element that can significantly restrict landscape design options. The existing ground level around the tree must be carefully considered. It can’t be too high or too low, as this may necessitate costly solutions like retaining walls, excavation, or adding new soil to make your desired landscape plan work.
Association/HOA
If you’re planning a new landscape and have an association or HOA, bringing in a designer early is key. They’re often familiar with common HOA concerns and can present your project professionally and knowledgeably, which helps alleviate those concerns. It’s helpful your designer understand the specific rules and regulations of your association, ensuring your plan complies with all ordinances.
Choosing Your Contractor
Start Your Search
When searching for a landscaper, word-of-mouth referrals are invaluable. Personal recommendations from trusted sources offer the most honest and reliable insights. Online searches can also be helpful, and reviews are certainly a factor to consider. Remember that reviews are just one piece of the puzzle. Consider what’s most important to you in a landscaper and weigh reviews accordingly. Pay close attention to negative reviews to discern if they highlight legitimate concerns or simply reflect a difficult client. This step is important to get off on the right foot and start the process selecting the best candidates to choose from. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, it’s best to limit your search to a maximum of three or four bids. This allows you to thoroughly evaluate each option without investing excessive time and energy.
Trust Your Contractor
This is the bedrock of a successful relationship with your landscape company. You’re entrusting them not only with your property, often a significant investment, but also with your vision for how you want to live and interact with your outdoor space. A landscaper you can trust will listen carefully to your needs, communicate clearly and honestly about the project scope, timelines, and budget, and deliver on their promises. They’ll be transparent about any challenges that arise and work collaboratively with you to find solutions. More than just planting flowers or building patios, a trustworthy landscaper offers peace of mind, knowing that your project is in capable and caring hands, and that the end result will be a beautiful and functional space you can truly enjoy. Ultimately, trust transforms a transactional business relationship into a true partnership, fostering a positive experience and a landscape you’ll love for years to come
Landscaping Costs
Estimating landscape costs can be tricky. While many people turn to Google for pricing information, online resources often don’t capture the full picture. Landscape projects involve a variety of expenses beyond the basic materials, such as trucking, removal and hauling fees, base materials, leveling sand, pavers, poly sweep, disturbance repairs, and potential access constraints. Furthermore, site-specific conditions can significantly impact the final cost. Therefore, calculating cost per square foot isn’t always straightforward. For example, a typical 300 sq. ft. patio can range from $10,000 to over $20,000 depending on these various factors.
Contract Advice
A clear contract is crucial for any landscape project. Think of your landscape design as your receipt—a document that outlines exactly what you’ve agreed to and protects all parties involved. A well-defined contract minimizes misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page. Pay close attention to the details, including warranty information, the down payment schedule, any fees for unpaid invoices, potential unforeseen costs, and all other fine print. Make sure all costs, such as trucking and lawn repairs, are clearly stated upfront. Also, clarify who is responsible for things like irrigation repairs. While cost is certainly a factor when comparing bids, the lowest price isn’t always the best value. Just like with buying a car, the cheapest option isn’t necessarily the wisest choice. However, it’s also important to remember that a higher price doesn’t guarantee better quality. For example, my lower overhead allows me to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality or service. Don’t automatically dismiss a contractor based on price alone—consider the entire package, including experience, reputation, and clarity of the contract.