The initial design meeting can take 1-2 hours and sets the course for the entire process.  This involves:

·       Walking the site

·       Viewing landscape images to determine specific likes and dislikes.  Your favorite images become part of the vision board, which documents the theme and acts as our touchstone throughout the process.

·       Walk through the client’s home interior to gain the client’s sense of style, lifestyle, colors and themes.

Design development is our integration of the design meeting information, site analysis and coordination with architects, engineers, conservation commission and builders.  This process involves the following:

·       On-site measuring, photography, and designing.

·       Meeting with subcontractors to explore design concepts and feasibility.

·       Preparation of a Concept Design Drawing.

The concept plan shows how the general design principles (form and layout) respond to the opportunities and constraints identified in the design development phase. This is a drawing that represents the development at a conceptual level, illustrating the main design ideas/principles and factors. This is a plan outlining general, rather than detailed, development intentions. During this face-to-face meeting we will cover the following with the client:

·       The final concept plan and vision board will be printed at large scale to review together.

·       Together we will walk through the vision board and discuss likes and dislikes.

·       A full review of the concept plan will take place. The client will address any issues, concerns, or dislikes at this time. 

·       Review of materials that are suggested.

·       In-depth conversation about types of plants the client is interested in and our suggestions for what plants would thrive best on their property.

·       Adjustments are discussed until final ideas have been decided upon.

The master plan is the creation of a framework in which the whole project proceeds. This is a full-property design plan that is incredibly comprehensive and aids in guiding the development and growth of a client’s property. Once the master plan is complete there will be a meeting to go over all the details.  The meeting will include:

·       Presentation of the master landscaping plan drawing

·       Sunflower designs will go over all plantings that are included in the plan with photos and descriptions of care.

·       Clients will provide feedback on any revisions that are needed.

·       All materials for hardscapes, fencing, or any other structures will be discussed.

·       Perspective and Section drawings of main elements are provided as needed.

·       Grading, drainage, and lighting plans if applicable.

·       Discussion of the scope of the installation project is determined.

After the Final Master Plan is agreed upon, we put together the right team for your project based on the scope of project, services needed and budget.

Estimating and Planning includes the following:

·       Meeting with subcontractors for estimates, project scheduling and coordination such as landscaping, masonry, swimming pool, carpentry, irrigation, and lighting.

·       Acquiring permits when necessary.

·       Coordinating with other service providers if necessary, such as house painters and carpenters who may be working on the site simultaneously.

Construction of Hardscape and Plantings are planned and coordinated with the client and subcontractors and materials are acquired.  Onsite coordination continues throughout the construction process until project is completed.

·       Site Preparation includes guiding removal of unwanted plants, sod, and hardscape elements.  Ensuring desirable species are retained and transplanted appropriately.  Flagging existing trees to prevent construction damage. Creating strategy for installation.

·       Installation of Hardscape Elements is usually done first, such as pools, patios, stone walls, fire pits and pergolas.  Our management team is on site to mark and guide the placement and installation of these elements as well as boulders, sculptures, water features and furnishings.

·       Installation of Plant Materials involves hand-selecting plants from nurseries, arranging delivery and guiding subcontractors in the proper placement of plants.  A fair amount of artistry gois into this stage, arranging the plants for their individual characteristics as well as possible adjustments for stone or tree stumps that are discovered while digging.

·       Installation of Irrigation and Lighting Systems takes place immediately after the planting is done.  We analyze irrigation to ensure proper plant coverage and timing and check lighting function and design.  Once these systems are finalized, planting beds are mulched.

·       Final walk-through to ensure satisfaction and answer questions.

This begins the stewardship of your property, where decisions will need to be made as the landscape evolves and matures.  Our team of experts can guide the long-term development of your landscape and help you enjoy it for years to come. Sunflower Designs has a large network of fine garden Maintenance Service companies we can refer to.  While we ourselves do not provide maintenance services we will always be available to answer any questions that arise over time.