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Who to Hire for Landscape Design Projects
A landscape architect or a landscape designer can plan your outdoor space
Photo: luckybusiness / Adobe Stock Photography
Photo: luckybusiness / Adobe Stock Photography
Highlights
A licensed landscape architect is often the best hire for large-scale outdoor designs that blend aesthetics and function.
Expect consultation fees of $100 to $300 per hour and design fees of $2,000 to $10,000; full project management can run $10,000 to $50,000 or more.
Smaller residential projects can total $800 to $8,000; high-end projects can exceed $10,000 depending on scope.
Costs vary by project complexity, location, pro experience, and inclusion of grading, drainage, or structural elements.
Professional planning helps ensure code compliance, sound drainage, sustainability, and long-term value.
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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
When deciding who to hire for landscape design, a landscape architect is often the best choice for complex outdoor spaces. These licensed pros balance aesthetics with performance and manage permitting and compliance.
Hire a landscaper with the right training, experience, and credentials to execute your vision and oversee implementation from plans to installation.
Benefits of Hiring a Landscape Architect for Landscape Design Projects
A licensed landscape architect brings advanced technical skills and a holistic approach to your outdoor space. Their work addresses drainage, sustainability, and everyday use while aligning with local regulations. They also integrate structural features and handle permitting and implementation for a cohesive, durable result.
Licensed for large-scale outdoor designs
Integrates drainage and grading solutions
Aligns plans with building codes
Designs functional, sustainable spaces
Handles structural elements when needed
Knowledge of environmental regulations
Produces final plans and obtains permits
Oversees construction or installation
Balances aesthetics with performance
If your project involves complex grading, drainage, or structural elements, you might want to consider a landscape architect near you to ensure the job is done safely and meets all local requirements.
Can I Hire a Landscape Designer for Landscape Design Projects?
A landscape designer fits smaller, decorative projects focused on plant selection, garden layouts, and outdoor aesthetics. Designers often lack formal licensing and structural expertise, which limits them on complex projects. For retaining walls, irrigation systems, or large-scale landscaping, hire a landscape architect instead. Designers generally cost less but are not suited to engineering-heavy or code-intensive scopes.
How Do Landscape Architects Design an Outdoor Space?
A landscape architect follows a clear process that moves from vision to build, aligning design with function and regulations.
Initial consultation to discuss your vision, needs, and budget
Site analysis of soil, drainage, sun exposure, and existing features
Concept development reflecting preferences and functional needs
Design refinement with feedback and regulatory alignment
Final plans and permitting
Implementation, managed or overseen by the architect
This approach ensures beauty, structural soundness, and sustainability.
How Much Does Landscape Design Cost?
Costs depend on project complexity, location, and the pro’s experience. Consultation fees run $100 to $300 per hour. Comprehensive design plans cost $2,000 to $10,000. Full project management ranges from $10,000 to $50,000+ and can increase with grading, drainage, or structural features. Smaller residential projects may total $800 to $8,000, while high-end and extensive projects can exceed $10,000.
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