Is a vacation getaway in your own backyard at the top of your wish list? Or something that captures the feeling of that page from a magazine you've been holding onto for the last year? Start by figuring out what you need to have and what you'd like to have.

Collect pictures from magazines of images or moods you're drawn to, from a ski lodge in Aspen to a swatch of fabric. We can help you sort through a collection of abstract thoughts and wishes to find what inspires you and translate it into a garden that reflects you.

Landscape projects with special elements like outdoor kitchens, pools, or water features can cost as much as an addition to your home—because they are an addition to your home—while some of our favorite gardens have been installed on a shoestring. Be prepared to communicate clearly about your budget. If your budget is smaller, getting creative with materials or prioritizing features is key.