Create Your Dream Landscape with Landscape Designs by Jodie
"Every plant has its fitness and must be placed in its proper surroundings so as to bring out its full beauty. Therein lies the art of landscaping." - Jens Jensen
The design process
A well-designed landscape can increase a home's value by 10% to 20%, making it one of the best investments for homeowners. A thoughtfully planned outdoor space enhances curb appeal, improves functionality, and creates an inviting atmosphere that potential buyers love. But achieving this value starts with a strong design—one that considers layout, plant selection, materials, and how the space will be used over time. Whether you're looking to boost resale value or create your dream outdoor retreat, good design is the foundation of a beautiful, functional, and valuable landscape. My Design Process ensures just that.
Step 1: Site Visit
Every project begins with an on-site consultation. This is our opportunity to discuss your wish list, including must-haves and dislikes about your current landscape. We’ll talk about plant preferences, styles, and colors, so feel free to bring inspiration photos. I encourage all household members—no matter how small—to participate in this meeting and share their input.
Step 2: Site Inventory & Measurements
After our meeting, I will walk the property to take measurements, site photos, and notes on lighting, sightlines, and soil conditions. If you have a property survey, it’s helpful but not required. This information forms the foundation for your landscape plan.
Step 3: Concept Drawing
The concept drawing outlines all key landscape elements, including walkways, patios, decks, buildings, garden beds, and trees. This provides a clear vision of the layout and flow of your space. Your feedback is crucial—feel free to mark up the design, suggest changes, and ask questions! Depending on your input, we may refine the concept before moving forward.
Step 4: Drawing Package
Once the concept is finalized, I will create a detailed, to-scale drawing package that includes:
✅ Planting Plan – Thoughtful and meticulously designed plans that will identify the plants suited to your space, with quantities and sizes specified.
✅ Hardscape Plan – A detailed layout of key structural elements (patios, walkways, walls) with material selections.
✅ Details Plan – Construction notes and installation guidelines for a seamless build.
✅ Specifications Plan – Visual references, including product images, colours, and manufacturer details.
✅ Colour Plan – A colour layout highlighting material palettes and patterns bringing the drawing to life.
Step 5: Additional Drawings (Optional Upgrades)
Sometimes a project requires additional drawings to complete the package depending on the scope of the project.
- Site Plan – Required for permit applications with municipalities or conservation authorities.
- Lighting Plan – A layout specifying lighting fixture placement to enhance beauty, safety, and nighttime usability.
- Irrigation Plan - A layout specifying irrigation fixture placement
- 3D Renderings – A realistic preview of your landscape before installation begins.
Good design is actually a lot harder to notice than poor design, in part because good designs fit our needs so well that the design is invisible
Don Norman