What Does Landscaping Cost?
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.
What does our typical client invest in landscaping?
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
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.
Size of the Block
When the size of the block increases, all elements tend to expand and suddenly you have all costs doubling.
Quality of Materials Used
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
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
An outdoor kitchen was included for this courtyard project which added approx. $25,000
Here are a couple of questions we get asked.
What if I feel my budget is not sufficient for what I want?
We ask our clients a question to determine our design approach:
- Would you prefer to only include those elements that fit an exact dollar fee budget?
- Or do you want us to include all of your wish list into a concept design and cost it, and then adjust for budget?
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?
- Client’s source additional funds through re-finance
- Clients have actually decided to sell their home and move and do what they want to achieve
- Some give up and never landscape their garden
- And for most, it comes down to compromise. 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
Do you have a cost guide to help me work on my budget for landscaping?
Yes. I have put together a Landscape Cost Guide which will give you further information on working this out, please press the following link.
What Happens Next?
- Client’s source additional funds through re-finance
- Clients have actually decided to sell their home and move and do what they want to achieve
- Some give up and never landscape their garden
- And for most, it comes down to compromise.
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
Here’s What A Few of Our Clients Have to Say About their Garden Transformations:
"The final design blew me away."
"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
"We were lucky to have a personal recommendation to approach Whyte Gardens and consider their design for our lakeside retreat."
"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"
“Andrew and his team were very professional and helpful.
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
“The team went above and beyond to make my dream garden a reality and have it ready by Christmas.”
Sharne Young
Here’s what we’ll discuss during your consultation:
The current state of your garden & your unique vision for its future
How to create the ideal garden within your budget
Requirements to consider in order to create a perfectly compliant space
Any questions that you have about your project or Whyte Gardens
Whatever your vision is for your Ideal Garden, we’re excited to bring it to life
by managing the entire design and construction process, so you can finally relax and bask in the beauty of your beautiful outdoor space.