Many of our projects at The Penland Studio – Landscape Architecture begin with Landscape Master Plans. So, what is a Master Plan and why are they needed?
To begin, one must understand the role of the Landscape Architect. Everyone understands that we design with plants, but we also design with a variety of other materials used for various purposes such as paving, decking, fencing, lighting, stormwater management, water features, walls (both freestanding and retaining), site furnishings and so forth. While individuals or firms may vary, planting design accounts for about 15% of our work.
Master Plans are a design tool which allows us to marry all of the outdoor spaces and experiences into a comprehensive plan which considers all aspects relevant to spacial design such as form, color, texture, fragrance, pedestrian circulation, vehicular circulation, grading, drainage, site geometry, utilities, existing conditions, views, vistas, screening needs, etc. When completed, a Landscape Master Plan provides our clients with “the big picture” of how all elements will ultimately work together to create and enhance outdoor spaces.
A major advantage of starting with a Master Plan is that, when completed, it can be used to estimate construction costs and phase work into smaller projects. Clients may want do do portions of the work themselves or with their own forces. Other elements, such as the location of a future swimming pool for example, may dictate where utilities are placed for a more immediate outdoor kitchen.
In addition to providing a comprehensive and harmonious design, Master Plans can be invaluable over time by illustrating where future elements will be located. Much like the carpenters’ saying, “Measure twice, cut once,” Landscape Master Plans can prevent costly mistakes.
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