Most homeowners invest between $1,000 and $1,800 for landscape design, depending on property size and complexity.
Average Landscape Design Cost
These figures reflect design services only. Installation is separate.
| Project Type | Typical Design Fee |
| Small front yard refresh | $900 |
| Backyard planting & patio concept | $1,000 – $1,200 |
| Full property master plan | $1,700+ |
How Landscape Designers Charge
Different firms structure their design fees in different ways. Here’s a look at the most common models in the industry — and how Green Side Up approaches it.
Flat Fee (Green Side Up’s approach)
Green Side Up prices all residential design projects as a flat fee, determined solely by the scope of work. The complexity and scale of your project drive the number — nothing else. This gives homeowners a clear, predictable cost upfront with no surprises tied to hourly overruns or installation budgets.
Hourly Rate
Some designers charge by the hour, typically ranging from $75 to $150 depending on experience and credentials. Costs can be harder to predict with this model, as hours may vary as the project evolves.
Percentage of Installation Cost
For large projects, some firms price design as a percentage of the total build — often 5–15%. This can mean design fees scale significantly as project budgets grow.
What Impacts Landscape Design Pricing?
1. Property Size
A compact lot in Bon Air requires far less planning than a multi-acre estate in Manakin Sabot.
2. Scope of Work
Simple planting layouts cost less than a master plan that includes patios, retaining walls, lighting, grading, and drainage.
3. Level of Detail
2D concept sketches are less intensive than scaled construction drawings or 3D renderings.
4. Site Conditions
Sloped yards, erosion concerns, or drainage challenges require more technical planning.
5. Collaboration & Revisions
The number of meetings and plan revisions can increase design time.
What Does a Landscape Design Include?
Landscape design projects all depend on the scope of work agreed on with your landscaping professional. Here are some things that might be included in the project:
- Property layout and scaled drawings
- Plant selection and placement
- Hardscape concepts (patios, walkways, sitting walls)
- Outdoor living features (fireplaces, kitchens)
- Lighting layout
- Drainage planning
- Grading recommendations
Landscape Design vs. Installation Cost
A common misconception is that design includes construction. It does not. Design is the planning phase that guides installation — but not every project requires a formal design.
For smaller projects under $20,000, a standalone design plan is typically unnecessary unless you need it for HOA approval or simply want a visual to help guide decisions. For these projects, we can often work directly from a consultation.
For larger or more complex projects, a formal design becomes a valuable investment:
- Outdoor living spaces typically range $40,000–$80,000
- Estate-level transformations can exceed $100,000
At these scales, a detailed design ensures the vision, materials, and budget are all aligned before installation begins.
Is Landscape Design Worth It?
For homeowners investing in long-term property value, the answer is typically yes — but perhaps the most overlooked benefit is what a design does for the relationship between you and your contractor.
A formal design puts everyone on the same page before a single shovel hits the ground. It creates a shared vision, reduces miscommunication, and ensures that what you’re imagining and what’s being built are the same thing. Surprises mid-project are rarely welcome — and rarely cheap.
Beyond alignment, professional design also:
- Prevents costly installation mistakes
- Creates visual cohesion across your property
- Protects drainage and grading
- Aligns plant selection with Virginia’s climate
- Supports long-term maintenance planning
Well-planned landscapes age better, require fewer corrections, and reflect a process where the homeowner and contractor moved through every decision together — before the work began.
What to Budget for Your Property
If you’re unsure where you fall, consider this guideline:
- If you’re planning under $20,000 in improvements, you may only need a basic planting plan rather than a full landscape design.
- If you’re planning $25,000–$75,000 in upgrades, a detailed design is recommended.
- If you’re planning a full outdoor transformation, a master plan is the right starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does landscape design take?
Most residential designs take 3–8 weeks depending on scope and revision cycles.
Can I use the design with another contractor?
In most cases, yes, though design-build firms often create plans aligned with their own installation methods.
Is landscape architecture different from landscape design?
Landscape architects handle engineered plans and permitting for complex commercial or structural projects. Most residential work falls under landscape design.
Get a Free Quote
The best way to get an accurate quote is to get a site visit and consultation from an expert. Green Side Up Landscaping offers landscape design services in Richmond and Williamsburg areas.
Schedule a free site visit and estimate today!
You can also stop by our pricing estimator for more information.
