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What is a Landscape Architect? | | | A landscape architect is a design professional who uses plants, landform (shaping of the earth), water and outdoor structures (fences, walls, etc.) to create environments for people to live work and play. In most states, to advertise and/or practice as a landscape architect, one must be registered in the state in which they practice. To become registered, one must have graduated from an accredited bachelors or masters degree program, worked under a registered landscape architect for a minimum of two years and pass both national and state exams. Landscape architects have a working knowledge of architecture, civil engineering, horticulture and city/town planning and use this knowledge to bring creative vision to designed outdoor spaces. For more information about landscape architecture check out the American Society of Landscape Architects and CLARB web sites. | | Why should I hire a Landscape Architect? | | | A landscape architect thinks creatively. However, well designed does not necessarily correspond to higher design or installation costs. Most often a landscape architect saves money and adds value to projects. Through our training we learn that there are often many different approaches to projects, particularly when there are multiple professions/trades involved. We analyze the alternatives working in concert with others to determine the most effective solution that meets the client’s needs and budget while recommending what is also most appropriate for the land. | | How can you help me on my project? | | | Although I love working with plants, landscape architects are knowledgeable about so much more. Determining the proper location for buildings, designing access roads, drives and parking lots, designing grading and drainage systems and athletic fields are just some of the talents a landscape architect can employ. A landscape architect can serve as the lead professional in a multi-discipline team or may be a sub-consultant to an architect, engineer or planner. We also possess the knowledge base to meet a broad range of client needs without the need for additional design professionals. | | How much do your services cost? | | | The answer really depends on your project and your needs. I can usually tailor my services to meet your project’s scope and budget. Here are some general guidelines: - For initial consultations at your home or business I charge an hourly rate. We’ll review your project needs and I will offer some suggestions to help you implement your project. Should you choose to hire me (and I hope you will), the initial consultation fee will be credited to your final billing. There is no charge for initial consultations held at my office or over the phone.
- For well-defined projects I will provide you with a lump sum quote for design services.
- For projects without a well-defined scope of services I charge an hourly rate plus expenses against a targeted design budget.
- Residential and small commercial landscape designs typically cost 7-15% of the landscape construction budget. Construction administration services fees generally run 5-10% of the construction budget.
| | Why is your firm called “The Howland & Higgins Co.”? | | | The firm name honors my two grandmothers through the use of their maiden names. |
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