You can add value with landscaping. 97% of real estate agents report that homeowners who invest in landscaping can expect a 215% return on their investment when it comes time to sell their property. Hiring an architect who knows the ins and outs of hardscapes and softscapes can add an instant curb appeal, and calculable property value. In addition to just monetary value, you can add sentimental value by expanding living spaces to outdoor areas. Built in seating, patios, fire pits, and fountain areas, can create beautiful spaces that you can go on to make amazing memories around with your family and friends.
Another benefit of hiring an architect is that they have a plan. Being experienced with hardscapes around various landscapes, they can tell you what would be best for your property, and what materials would create the best natural looking aesthetic. Additionally, they can identify any areas what may be prone to problems in the future i.e. flooding or additional wear, which can then be taken into account when they draw up the blueprints. Having a professional handle all these details can save you both the time and stress of having to balance it yourself.
A landscaper will also be able to create the most low maintenance garden and outdoor areas for your home. One way they can do this is by using plants that are native to your geographic area. By using native species you can save on watering and fertilizing, because the flora is already adapted to flourishing in the conditions location. Using native plants also benefits the environment, as foreign species could run the risk of being invasive to the indigenous plant life, which can cause problems down the road if you have them mixed in your garden.
Architects will know where to plant trees to best reduce your energy costs. Heating and cooling costs can be cut by as much as 20% with properly placed trees and plants.
Good architects will know when it would be most beneficial to incorporate permeable paving. This type of paving is designed to allow water to flow through it, which can reduce the risk of flooding in vulnerable areas. Hardscapes that incorporate this material are not only eye catching, but can save you a lot of headaches along the road.
Using the above a skilled architect will be able to even design a rain garden in more flood prone areas. Gardens like this siphon off rainwater and help mitigate standing water problems in difficult areas.
Professionals well versed in hardscapes can also lend their expertise to creating natural looking swimming pools. If you want a backyard pool, but want it to flow conducively with the rest of your property. An architect will be able to design a pool that doesn’t blends in, but is still bold enough to be the envy of all your neighbors.
A landscape architect can devise a drip irrigation system that will benefit all of your plants. This type of watering system disperses water right to the roots, and is a water saving, efficient alternative to large sprinkler systems. However, if improperly installed, a faulty system can serve to kill your plants, either by over, or under watering them. This system is best left to the professionals, to insure that both your water bill, and your plants can benefit from it.
Professional landscapers can also offer advice from beginning to end. Throughout the entire construction you can have peace of mind knowing that everything is being managed and taken care of by an expert. They will also be able to advice on additional features, modifications, and improvements as the project goes on, insure you will have the best landscape features possible.
Most importantly, an expert architect will be able to design a landscape that you can love and be proud of. The outdoor space that they design will be a breathtakingly special place that you and your loved ones can enjoy for years and years to come. Furthermore, you can rest assured knowing that the final product is up to code, and is the best it can be for you and your property.
