We know that cost is one of the most important factors determining how your ideal garden comes to fruition. The most common question we are asked is, “what would be a ballpark cost for our landscaping?” This is much like asking, “what does a car cost?” – You know the answer to this one, it could be anything! However, we totally understand if you have apprehension engaging a designer with what seems like a blank cheque for your project. There is no quick answer to this, however, below you will find realistic costs based on actual projects we build.
Depending on the size, access, complexity of design, will determine cost. Courtyards can vary from $40-120,000.
As in all projects, some aspects the determine the amount invested are, the value of the property;
the individual taste of the client for quality materials and inclusions of more luxury items;
and whether the investment is a short term of for-ever home.
When we talk about a typical suburban block for a new-build home, the investment is typically around $100,000-200,000. This price increases to over $300,000 when pools, basketball courts, pool house, etc are also included.
Sloping blocks commonly need more excavation and of course lots of retaining walls. As example, we are currently working on a block with 25 steps to the front door and slopes at rear being just as steep. This Balwyn site is founded on shale and difficult to dig into. These walls will be around $100,000.
When the size of the block increases, all elements tend to expand and suddenly you have all costs doubling.
Quality of materials used can greatly influence the cost. For example, an average paver may cost $70-100/m2 to purchase. We bought pavers a client liked that were $250/m2, plus they required special laying methods that added another $10,000 to the cost.
Stone cladding as a feature looks amazing, but on average it takes a day to lay one m2 for certain stone and so you could look at $1000/m2 to clad a wall.
An outdoor kitchen was included for this courtyard project which added approx. $25,000
We ask our clients a question to determine our design approach:
Most people choose to include everything. And what happens then? – Sadly, it is part of the process and for some clients, they fall in love with the design and know it is exactly what they want but cannot invest that amount of money.
What happens next?
Yes. I have put together a Landscape Cost Guide which will give you further information on working this out, please press the following link.
I work with the client to modify the design, keeping the essence of the design, but perhaps changing stone clad walls to rendered walls for example.
Using different materials or reducing perhaps the paved area and increasing the grass area, to bring the budget more in line • And for others, elements are removed, with the decision to build them into a later stage two project
"So much interest and detail was put into the visual aspect of both front and back gardens. I love my decking, plants used and my outdoor BBQ area. What a difference it makes to use a landscape architect who is sensitive to your needs, with the end result being a garden that is so pleasing to the eye. Whyte Gardens thorough and professional approach was constant throughout the whole design and implementation process."
Rosa Lanteri
"The task was challenging with tight local regulations and a difficult block with which to work. We were delighted with their initial design and their professionalism in the build phase. They transformed the block into a landscape of which we are very proud. The design is sensitive to both the local community and to our home."
Mark & Julie Umstad"
They did an exceptional job of my courtyard, the team were friendly and helpful and I am very happy with the end result. I highly recommend Whyte Gardens.”
Alexandra Smith
Sharne Young
by managing the entire design and construction process, so you can finally relax and bask in the beauty of your beautiful outdoor space.