- WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN LANDSCAPE DESIGNERS, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS, AND LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS?
- Landscape designers may provide design ideas, landscape plans, planting plans and lighting plans. Some also offer installation-related services such as construction materials selection or plant placement. While they may provide conceptual ideas and drawings of garden structures, they are not licensed to provide architectural construction plans. Likewise, while they may work closely with contractors overseeing the aesthetic elements of an installation, they are not licensed to provide actual construction services. Their education is in residential design which emphasizes design strategies, hardscape options, and plant materials appropriate for residential projects.
Landscape architects are licensed by the State of California and, in addition to the plans typically provided by a landscape designer, are qualified to produce construction-ready plans that may include complex retaining walls, grading and drainage plans, and physical structures. Their training emphasizes design for large public and commercial spaces such as parks and commercial landscapes. Their fees are usually significantly higher than those of a landscape designer.
Landscape contractors are licensed to install the designs created by landscape designers and landscape architects. When working with a design/build firm, be sure to clarify the design process used and whether you will receive landscape drawings for your review and approval or just a verbal or written description of the landscape to be installed.
Contact Sharon Petersen, (925) 672-7729
2007-2008 President - East Bay District, Association of Professional Landscape Designers®