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FAQ
FAQ
How much does a design cost?
After a comprehensive information gathering process and an in-person consultation, we will be able to provide a fixed price for your project, which is dependent on scale and complexity but is usually within the range of $7,500 - $15,000.
How does the process work? What do Paperbark usually provide? What is a Landscape Concept Design?
These questions are answered in detail on our Process page.
Do you do landscape construction as well?
Paperbark provides design and consultancy services only, and we work with a range of trusted landscapers and contractors who can bring our designs to life – we are happy to provide recommendations. We are able to source plants and materials for you and once the hard landscaping is completed, we offer a planting out service to make sure our selections perfectly match the concept design.
What's the difference between a Landscape Designer and a Landscape Architect?
Landscape Architects are usually more often involved on commercial, public or civil projects. They are required to hold a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, and their training is more focussed on civil and urban design. Plant knowledge is not usually a major part of their study and has to be acquired on the job. Landscape Designers are usually more involved in residential or rural projects. Their study is more focussed on gardens and plants - species selection, conditions, growth habits and soil. Whilst not a legal requirement for smaller jobs, they are required to hold a Diploma of Landscape Design for many Council submissions in NSW. Michael holds a Design degree from the University of Sydney and a Diploma of Landscape Design from Ryde School of Horticulture.
Where are you located? Do you travel?
While some designers take on work around the country without ever visiting the site or truly knowing the conditions, we have a strong preference to visit the site at least once, and also to meet our clients in person. By making a site visit (even to a new development without a house in view!) we can learn a lot about your property compared to just looking at photos and plans. And, we want to take the time to get to know you! Understanding your story, lifestyle and needs is really important. With that in mind, we generally work between Sydney and Nowra, with a focus on Berry, Kangaroo Valley, Kiama, Gerringong and Gerroa; along with the Southern Highlands.
Can't a landscaper just do it all for me?
To get the best results, you need both a designer and a landscaper! Some landscape construction companies offer design and build services, and this can seem like an easier or cheaper solution - one point of contact and possibly even no (obvious) charge for the design element. But it’s important to remember that the person doing the design work in the company is getting paid regardless of whether it’s specifically on the invoice - so the cost of this work tends to be passed on to you when you’re billed for the construction elements instead. In the end, this means you’ll likely pay a similar amount whether you instruct a landscape designer and a landscaper, or a design + build company. Landscapers are usually multi-skilled professionals who are experts in construction, building all sorts of structures across several different mediums. Landscape Designers are experts in horticulture and design, with a solid understanding of construction concepts and practicalities. Paperbark works with trusted local landscapers who we know can build our designs to the highest standard - we are very happy to provide recommendations.
Why do I need a landscape designer?
There are 5 main reasons: 1. Get it right the first time Fail to plan, plan to fail - as the saying goes! A landscape designer will consider your outdoor space from all angles, both literally (using photos, drone footage and measurements) and figuratively (your lifestyle, budget, needs and ideas, plus conditions, soil, light, accessibility, privacy, Council requirements and more). A good design will also consider the age, style and layout of your house to create maximum flow between the two. We’ll then apply our creativity and knowledge of design theory to give you something unique, beautiful and functional to make the absolute most of your space. By using a designer, you'll end up with a master concept plan bringing everything together with accurate drawings, moodboards and all the resources you'll need to either pass to a quality landscaper for the build, or chip away at yourself. 2. Save money AND get better results While hiring a designer might sound like an extravagance or yet another cost that might have you worrying about budget, investing in design is key to getting an end result that's well-thought out and will avoid costly mistakes in the long run. Just like hiring a building designer or architect before you build a house, or an interior designer before you renovate, a landscape designer is key to doing the ‘heavy lifting’ in terms of planning, resolving any issues and working to your budget from the outset. We use innovative 2D and 3D renders to present your design – so you’ll see the finished product BEFORE you buy a single plant, and if you want to change something it’s far easier and cheaper in the design stage than if you’ve already started construction. We advise on the highest impact areas to splurge, and where to save; and can design for staged construction so you can build as budget allows. 3. Designers know their plants Extensive plant and horticultural knowledge is what sets designers apart. We spend a lot of time studying different species and cultivars, so we're best placed to advise on the plants that will suit your space and lifestyle, and advise on post-planting care to help them thrive. Here at Paperbark we grow, nurture and check in on plants all the time so we know what actually works, beyond the sales page on a website or the plant label. 4. Sourcing skills and wholesale pricing Designers have close relationships with wholesale nurseries across Australia and access to the best quality plants at better prices than you could find by yourself. Another big saving right there. Did you know that wholesale nurseries have to abide by Australian Standards, whereas retail options don't have to? We source and plant out our selections for you to ensure they perfectly match the concept design. We also have access to wholesale pricing for materials, lighting, furniture, and pots. It's our job to live and breathe design and style so we know what's out there, and which suppliers are reputable - we've done the research so you don't have to. 5. A neutral party who can liaise with contractors and speak their language Designers don’t tend to be biased about using particular materials; of course we all have some favourites but our job is to advise you on what will suit your unique project and nail your brief. Designers are well-versed in the language and concepts of landscape construction so can help the build move smoothly and make sure any tweaks on the ground will work with the overall design. We also regularly work with architects, engineers and arborists.
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