Many of us have avoided starting a project simply because we don’t know where to begin. It can feel overwhelming. When it comes to your landscape, the solution is to start with a master plan. Whether you plan to complete the work all at once or break it into phases, a master plan offers lasting benefits.
Creating A Plan
A master plan is a drawing that considers your entire property. It addresses all your goals – not just one area or feature. The process begins by measuring your space and documenting existing conditions to create a base plan. Next, you define your program – what you want your landscape to do and include. Once that’s clear, you can begin designing and developing your solution. Doing this work up front makes everything that follows easier, more efficient, and more cost-effective.
Benefits of Planning
With a master plan, you can determine the best way to approach your project. It helps you prioritize tasks, set a budget, and decide what to tackle now and what to save for later. One of the biggest advantages is avoiding costly mistakes. For example, without a plan, you might install a walkway in year one – only to remove it later for a different phase. Planning ahead helps prevent this and keeps your project on track. It also helps you avoid getting stuck. Say you install a fence and screening plants – then realize you need access to that area to add a pool the next year. With a plan, you’ll see the best order for each step and avoid working against yourself.
Think Long Term
Planning in advance can save you money. You might plant key elements – like trees or screening – early while they’re still small. They’ll grow in over time and be well established before later phases begin. If you’re using materials like pavers or stone in different areas, you can order them all at once. Stockpiling now ensures the material will match later, even if the next phase happends years down the line. Large landscape projects often involve many professionals – masons, electriciams, irrigation contractors, and more. A detailed plan ensures everyone is on the same page from the start. Even if the work is done in stages, your landscape will come together as one unified space.
Working with Your Budget and Schedule
At Hicks Landscapes, we regularly create phased plans for our clients that unfold over several years. Our design team can help you map out your goals and develop a smart, flexible strategy. If you’re not sure where to start, give Hicks a call. We’re here to help you get moving.