The Design Process

What to Expect

At Larkspur, we believe transparency leads to better partnerships. Here's our step-by-step process for transforming your outdoor space.

We know you might have questions like:

  • What should you expect when working with a garden designer?

  • How involved can you be in the design process?

  • How do we turn your vision into reality?

To bring clarity to our partnership, we've outlined our design process below. Our goal is to make this journey collaborative and transparent from start to finish.

The Larkspur Experience: From Concept to Creation

Initial Consultation
Every great garden begins with a conversation. Our journey together starts with a phone call—a creative dialogue where we explore your vision, aesthetic, and whether our collaboration feels like a natural fit. Following this, we invite you to complete our in-depth client intake survey, designed to gather the dreams, inspirations, and ideas that will guide the magic ahead.

STEP 1 – Site Visit | $150
Both Nicoles—co-owners, designers, and passionate stewards of beauty—visit your property in person to dive deeply into your vision. Through heartfelt conversation, curated garden palettes, and inspiring mood boards, we begin shaping the spirit of your outdoor space. During this visit, we also share an estimated project cost and outline our rendering fee, which varies depending on the complexity and scale of the design.

STEP 2 – Working with Larkspur
At Larkspur, we don’t just cultivate landscapes—we nurture relationships. Once you're ready to move forward, we collect the design fee and officially begin our creative partnership. With your trust, we set out to translate dreams into design, always guided by connection: to land, to beauty, and to you.

STEP 3 – Design Rendering
We return to your site to gather precise measurements, photos, and video—capturing every detail so your garden can bloom first in our minds and then in the world. Early in the process, you’ll receive a custom garden palette to refine the aesthetic and guide initial feedback. Within 3–4 weeks, we present a detailed rendering that brings your vision to life. Each design includes a companion guide featuring images and locations of every plant, and one complimentary round of revisions ensures that each nuance is just right. Our goal is to craft a space that stirs the soul—a timeless sanctuary that feels like love at first sight and lasts through the seasons.

STEP 4 – Installation
With your design approved, the transformation begins. We manage every detail—from contractor coordination to the hand-selection of plants and materials—ensuring your garden is brought to life with care and artistry. At Larkspur, we pride ourselves on high-touch client relationships and hands-on involvement. Once the final petal is in place, we collect the remaining project balance and celebrate the beginning of something beautiful.

STEP 5 – Education
Your new garden comes with a personalized guide—a thoughtful companion that includes plant identifications (botanical and common names), seasonal care instructions, and tailored advice for your unique space. We offer one full year of dedicated educational support, empowering you to nurture your garden with confidence and joy as it evolves and grows.