Landscape Design + Build
Landscapes that feel as though they’ve always belonged.
Welcome to the Design Studio
From concept through completion.
By thoughtfully weaving together architecture, ecology and the way you live, we create outdoor spaces that are beautiful, functional and restorative, for both people and the land.
Whether you’re beginning with new construction or breathing new life into an existing garden, our goal is to create a landscape that grows richer and more meaningful with every season.
Our process
From first conversation to first bloom.
01 · Discover
Tell us about your project
Start with our short online questionnaire: your goals, how you like to live outdoors, your style, budget and timing. It helps us match you with the right designer and arrive at your property prepared.
02 · Discover
Walk the land together
A designer meets you on site to walk the property with you, reading the light, soil, slope, drainage and views, and noting the trees and features worth keeping. Together we shape a clear vision and the best path forward.
03 · Design
Design agreement
Next, we send a Design Agreement setting out the scope, deliverables, timeline and design fee. Once it’s signed and the fee is received, our designers begin drawing your landscape.
04 · Design
Design presentation
Our design process typically takes 3–6 weeks, depending on scope. We’ll welcome you to our Design Studio to present the concept, walk you through every detail, answer your questions and hear your first feedback.
05 · Design
Feedback & refinement
You’ll have up to three weeks to review the concepts, discuss them with your household and compile questions or revisions. We then refine the design, incorporating the agreed adjustments before preparing the final plan.
06 · Build & grow
Installation proposal
With your final design approved, we prepare a comprehensive installation proposal with a detailed scope and project investment. If you’d like to build in phases, we’ll develop a strategy that lets the project unfold over time without compromising the design.
07 · Build & grow
Construction
From site preparation to final planting, we oversee every aspect of construction: drainage, grading, retaining walls, masonry, outdoor structures, irrigation, lighting, driveways, swimming pools and complete landscape installation, all under one roof.
08 · Build & grow
Enjoy & maintain
Once your project is complete, it’s time to enjoy it. To help it thrive for years to come, we offer landscape maintenance tailored to your garden, from seasonal care and pruning to irrigation monitoring and plant health.
Investment
Design fees
Full Landscape Master Plan design fees typically range from $2,500 to $12,000, with most comprehensive residential projects falling around $7,000. Larger or more complex projects, such as new construction, swimming pools, extensive hardscape or full-property planning, may require a higher design investment.
Because every property and project is different, we determine the design fee once we understand the full scope of work. With a range of services, from expert consultations and MeadowMade to comprehensive design and construction, we can almost always recommend an approach that fits your goals, project and budget.
About consultations →Questions, answered
Landscape design FAQ
How much does landscape design cost in Austin?
Full Landscape Master Plan design fees at Barton Springs Nursery typically range from $2,500 to $12,000, and most comprehensive residential projects fall around $7,000. New construction, swimming pools, extensive hardscape or full-property planning may cost more. We set the fee once we understand the full scope.
How do I get started?
Fill out our short online questionnaire, then book an on-site consultation. A consultation is $350 for up to one hour with a landscape design or horticultural expert, and it goes toward your design fee if we design a Master Landscape Plan for you.
How long does the design process take?
Design typically takes 3–6 weeks for residential projects. Most clients take 1–2 weeks to review the concept, revisions take 1–3 weeks depending on scope, and installation estimates are usually ready within 3–5 weeks.
When can installation begin?
Most landscape projects take about three months from the start of design until installation begins. Spring and fall book up early, so it helps to start well ahead of the season you have in mind.
Do you build the landscapes you design?
Yes. We handle site preparation, drainage, grading, retaining walls, masonry, outdoor structures, irrigation, lighting, driveways, swimming pools and complete planting under one roof, and we offer ongoing landscape maintenance.
Can we build in phases?
Yes. If you'd like to build over time, we'll develop a phasing strategy that lets the project unfold without compromising the design.
Who will design my garden?
A dedicated designer leads your project, working under our studio director and owner and principal designer Amy Hovis. Many projects are collaborative across our design team.
Where do you work?
Our Design Studio is at 910 N Lamar Blvd in Austin. We design gardens across Austin and the Hill Country; a travel fee applies to properties more than 15 miles from the studio.
Are you insured?
Yes. We carry comprehensive general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance covering our team and subcontractors.
More answers on our Design Studio FAQ.
Let’s design something that lasts.
Start with our short questionnaire, then book a consultation at your property.