Sizing Up A Project
April 30th, 2010As a landscape designer, we are often called on to design grand master plans encompassing the totality of hard scape, soft
scape, lighting and irrigation covering an expansive property. Working with a large pallet is ofter liberating and while challenging, is not as difficult as working on a project that encompasses smaller spaces.
The economic reality we find ourselves in today, leads me to consider the unique challenges associated with these smaller and often, more detailed design opportunities.
Personally, I find that designing in these more intimate spaces is particularly challenging, where every minute detail takes on added importance and has a direct influence on the overall ambiance created. While challenging, they can and ofter are extremely rewarding because of the intensity of the results reflected in the design aesthetic. Details seem to be more immediate and the causal connection between space and time amplified and in most instances, heightening the emotional impact not always possible on a more expansive design.
Generally, working in small spaces requires a different perspective when looking at elements in the garden from hardscape, plants, water and a lot more. Causality become more intimate and this requires a different mindset from the outset of the design process. Understanding how spaces are organized, and achieving ideas where small spaces can be set up bringing surprise to intimate settings should be an overall objective. Organization, proportion and a special focus on thinking small are useful tools to drive designing in these situations.
While there is a similar design methodology and sense of discipline that applies to all design, both small and large, it does take a different focus and application to think small.



With the arrival of spring, this week brings back the memories of my beloved Airedale Rex, who left us this time last year after a long and rewarding life as our Family dog.
With the recent weekend deluge in the Northeastern USA, I was forced to will the rains to abate and finally, they have after four days of non-stop rains.
After the winter doldrums, it is a welcome sign to wake up to warmer temperatures, sun shining, snow melting and birds singing- Happy Spring!
These challenging economic times, call for a greater sensitivity relating to the spending habits of clients willing to embark on a new landscape design. Now is the time, even more than before, to positively reinforce the tangible benefits you offer your clients as part of your professional services. With clients spending more carefully, a more artfully refined approach needs to be part of your selling arsenal.
vely.
As As consumers, we today find ourselves drowning in a sea of green 