Our process

Design takes time. We don’t rush it.

A typical Verdant project runs 12–18 months from first conversation to first-year care. Comprehensive estate plans run longer. Below: how it all unfolds.

Phase 1 · Discovery (Month 1)

Free design consult + studio visit

1
Step 1.1
Free site visit (60–90 min)
On-site walkthrough. We discuss goals, constraints, lifestyle, and aspirations. No design done yet — just listening.
2
Step 1.2
Studio visit (optional)
If you’d like to see our work in person, we host you at our Mill Valley studio. Portfolio walk-through, materials review.
3
Step 1.3
Engagement decision
About 60% of consults proceed to engagement. We tell you honestly when we’re not the right fit; we have referrals.

Phase 2 · Design (Months 2–6)

From concept to construction documents

1
Step 2.1
Site analysis
Survey, sun studies, soil analysis, drainage assessment, existing tree evaluation. Foundation for every design decision.
2
Step 2.2
Schematic design
Concept plan, illustrative renderings, material moodboards. Iterative review with you — typically 2–3 rounds.
3
Step 2.3
Design development
Chosen direction refined. Construction details. Plant selection. Lighting plan. Coordination with architect/civil if applicable.
4
Step 2.4
Construction documents
Permit-ready plans, specifications, schedules. Phasing strategy if multi-year build.

Phase 3 · Build (Months 4–18)

Construction + planting

1
Step 3.1
Permitting + procurement
We handle permits. Specimen trees + materials sourced — often months ahead of need.
2
Step 3.2
Construction
Hardscape, pools, structures. Our project manager on site daily; crews + trusted partners.
3
Step 3.3
Planting
Done at the right time of year for each plant. Sometimes splits a build into two seasons.
4
Step 3.4
Final walkthrough + handoff
Punch list completed. Owner’s manual — full plant inventory, irrigation schedule, care notes.

Phase 4 · Care (Year 1+)

The garden matures

1
Year 1
Intensive establishment care
Weekly visits during establishment; biweekly thereafter. Plant warranty active.
2
Years 2+
Ongoing caretaking partnership
Most clients stay with us. Annual contract, monthly visits, continuous evolution.

Want to see if we’re the right fit?

Free design consult