Who Should I Hire to Plan My Landscape?

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are asking who to hire to plan your landscape, the answer starts with a landscape designer. These pros shape the vision, select plants for your climate, and flag drainage or grading issues. For complex projects or permanent structures, a landscape architect—who holds a state license and higher education—may be required.

This guide clarifies when to hire each pro and explains how the design process moves from ideas to a build-ready plan.

Benefits of Hiring a Landscape Designer to Plan My Landscape

A landscape designer creates a cohesive plan tailored to your yard and climate. They combine aesthetics with practical problem-solving, from drainage considerations to efficient layouts. Designers anticipate challenges, align with your goals, and, in many cases, coordinate the contractors who bring the design to life. This saves you time and helps you avoid costly mistakes stemming from layout, grading, or plant selection.

Here are some of the top benefits of hiring a landscape designer:

• Designs outdoor spaces that look polished and cohesive

• Selects plants suited to your hardiness zone

• Plans with drainage and slope in mind

• Helps prevent issues like basement flooding

• Maximizes small or awkwardly shaped yards

• Provides creative, site-specific solutions

• Identifies problems early and solves them

• Can oversee the renovation from start to finish

• Coordinates materials and contractor referrals

If you want a truly seamless process from design to installation, consider a landscape designer near you to ensure your project is handled by a qualified local professional.

Can I Hire a Landscape Architect to Plan My Landscape?

Hire a landscape architect when your project requires more specialized expertise. They hold a state license, have higher education, and cost more. 

Architects are best for permanent structures, full landscape overhauls, regrading, or complicated drainage solutions. For smaller residential plans, a designer is usually sufficient. If a complex issue arises, the designer may bring in an architect.

How Do Landscape Designers Plan a Landscape?

Expect a collaborative, step-by-step process that translates your ideas into a clear, build-ready plan. Your designer studies the site, discusses goals and constraints, and explains options such as garden beds, paths, pergolas, and fencing. After an initial concept, you refine the design together. If needed, a landscape architect joins to address advanced grading, structures, or drainage.

Here’s a look at the standard process:

1. Initial consultation to assess the site and discuss inspiration and must-haves

2. Designer explains layout options and potential issues

3. Designer drafts a plan, often using CAD software

4. If needed, an architect is brought in for complex elements

5. Client and designer refine and finalize the design

6. Designer either provides contractor referrals or oversees the entire build, including materials and hiring

How Much Does Landscape Design Cost?

The cost of landscape design ranges from $1,935 to $7,245 for most homeowners, averaging $4,570. Your total costs depend on the project complexity, size, and your location. Basic designs start at $300, while complex projects can run up to $10,0000.