Many homeowners hear the words landscape design and immediately picture an elaborate 3D computer rendering with every tree, shrub, and stone perfectly illustrated.
Sometimes that’s exactly what’s needed.
But many successful landscape projects begin with something much simpler.
If you’re planning a new landscape, here are three important things to know before getting started.
1. Landscape Design Doesn’t Have to Mean an Expensive Master Plan
Every property is different.
Some projects involve complete backyard renovations with patios, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, water features, lighting, and irrigation. Those larger projects often benefit from detailed digital landscape designs that allow you to visualize every element before construction begins.
Other projects are much more straightforward.
Perhaps you’re replacing a planting bed, updating the front entry, installing new sod, or adding a retaining wall.
In many of these cases, a simple hand sketch or scaled drawing may provide everything needed to move forward confidently.
The right level of landscape design depends on the complexity of your project—not on a one-size-fits-all process.
A good landscape contractor will help determine what level of planning makes sense for your goals and budget.
2. The Best Landscape Designs Are Built Around How You Live
Beautiful landscapes certainly catch attention.
But the most successful landscapes also make everyday life easier.
A thoughtful landscape design considers questions like:
- How much maintenance do you want?
- Do you entertain outdoors?
- Do grandchildren need room to play?
- Would additional privacy improve your yard?
- Are there drainage problems to solve?
- Would better lighting improve safety?
The answers shape a design that’s not only attractive but functional for years to come.
The goal isn’t simply to create a beautiful yard.
It’s to create an outdoor space you’ll genuinely enjoy using.
3. Installation Experience Makes Better Landscape Designers
This may be the most overlooked part of the entire design process.
Some landscape designers create beautiful plans but have little hands-on experience actually building them.
Experienced installers know what works in the real world.
They understand:
- Proper drainage
- Soil conditions
- Plant performance
- Retaining wall construction
- Irrigation systems
- Outdoor lighting
- Material durability
- Budget realities
That practical knowledge often leads to better recommendations and fewer surprises during construction.
A design that looks great on paper still has to function successfully once it’s built.
At Wall and Company, our landscape designs are backed by years of installation experience. Because we’ve built hundreds of outdoor living projects, we understand how every design decision affects construction, long-term performance, maintenance, and cost.
That experience helps us recommend practical solutions that fit your property—not just attractive ideas.
Start With the Right Plan
Whether your project calls for a simple concept sketch or a detailed digital rendering, good planning is one of the smartest investments you can make.
The right design process helps avoid costly changes, improves communication, and ensures everyone shares the same vision before construction begins.
If you’re thinking about a new landscape design, backyard renovation, landscape installation, or complete outdoor living project, Wall and Company can help determine the level of planning that’s right for your property—and then bring that vision to life with the experience to build it well.
Involved In the Process
After initially meeting with Greg, the couple worked with Project Manager Adam to develop a plan that reflected their ideas, the characteristics of the property, and the realities of the Inland Northwest climate. Once construction began, Foreman Spencer took over day-to-day management of the project and continued working closely with Jim and Mary as the landscape evolved.
“Spencer and I created a sort of bond, where I would give ideas and we would work together to incorporate them into the plan,” says Mary.
A Challenge Presented Itself Early On
That collaborative approach proved especially valuable because the project site presented a unique challenge. Located on a fairly steep hillside, the area offered limited access for equipment and materials. Before installation could begin, Wall & Company excavated a temporary road-sized access path from the street to the project area, allowing crews to safely transport materials and equipment to the site.
With access established, construction moved forward and the design began to take shape. Throughout the project, ideas were refined, details were adjusted, and the landscape evolved into a highly customized outdoor space tailored specifically to the property.
Careful With The Plants
At Wall & Company’s suggestion, Mary and Jim wanted to be sure the plants they selected were right for the Inland Northwest. Adam pointed them to Gibson’s Nursery, where they could see each plant suggested, and visualize in their new landscape. “We went to a local greenhouse and selected plants specifically designed for our area”, says Mary.
About the Xeriscape
Jim and Mary’s landscape features a variety of carefully selected elements that combine visual appeal with long-term durability and low maintenance. Basalt columns create a dramatic focal point, while decorative pavers embedded in crushed stone pathways guide visitors through the space. Concrete edging provides clean separation and weed control, and multiple colors and sizes of crushed stone add texture and visual contrast.
A concealed drip irrigation system delivers water efficiently to the landscape’s plant material, helping conserve water while promoting healthy growth.
And Today?
Today, Jim and Mary enjoy a landscape that complements both their property and their lifestyle. What began as a search for a lower-maintenance alternative to a traditional lawn ultimately became a complete transformation of their outdoor living space.
Looking back on the experience, Mary says the entire process exceeded their expectations.
As Mary puts it,
“Wall & Company was perfect to work with. From start to finish, every phase of the project, they were on it. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
Thank you Mary! And to be fair, you and Jim were a delight to work with as well.
Adam Kruse and Joshua Wall
Wall & Company