Most design projects are completed in 2–4 weeks from the time we receive all required information and your signed proposal.
The exact timing depends on:

• The size and complexity of your property

• How many features we’re planning (pool, spa, structures, lighting, planting, etc.)

• How quickly feedback is provided during the review stage

We’ll give you a realistic timeline at the start so you know when to expect your 3D walkthrough, final plans, and estimate.

Yes. Our design experience includes revisions so we can fine-tune the plan with you.

• We typically include up to two rounds of revisions after the initial 3D walkthrough.

• Most clients are fully satisfied within these revisions because we’ve already done careful discovery and a detailed virtual tour.

If you’d like to explore completely different layout options beyond the agreed scope, we can do that as an additional design phase.

Design fees vary depending on:

• Property size and complexity

• Whether we’re planning a full backyard transformation or focusing on a specific area

• How detailed the 3D modeling and documentation needs to be

As a guideline, the design phase is usually a small percentage of the overall project investment and often saves money by avoiding mistakes, changes, and re-work during construction.

Importantly:

When you choose us to build your project, all or part of your design fee can be credited toward construction, turning the design into a smart first step rather than an extra cost.

We’ll provide a clear design proposal after your free consultation.

Our typical design package includes:

• Free initial consultation to understand your goals, property, and budget

• Drone survey and site analysis for accurate grades and context

• Custom landscape master plan tailored to your property and lifestyle

• 3D renderings that show key views of your future backyard

• Guided video walkthrough of the 3D model so you can “tour” the design

• Final documentation (plans and visuals) suitable for construction planning

• Preliminary project estimate and, where appropriate, phasing options

• Earthform willl guide you every step of the way

You’ll walk away with a clear, visual plan and a realistic understanding of the investment required.

Yes — the design package is yours, and you’re free to share it.

However, there are two important things to know:

1. Our designs are created with our construction methods, materials, and standards in mind, so you’ll get the most accurate pricing and best result when our team builds the project.

2. When you choose us for construction, we often credit the design fee toward the build, which makes moving ahead with our team the best value.

If you’re not sure yet who will build the project, we’re still happy to design it and give you a professional, transferable set of plans.

Because for complex outdoor projects, a “quick quote” is usually just a rough guess.

A proper design:

• Reveals grading, drainage, and access issues before they become expensive surprises

• Ensures all elements (pool, patios, walls, planting, lighting, structures) work together, both functionally and visually

• Gives you accurate quantities and scope, which leads to realistic pricing

• Helps you prioritize features and phases so the project fits your budget

In short: design turns a vague idea into a clear, buildable plan and lets you invest with confidence.

Absolutely — your ideas are welcome.

• We can start from your sketch, Pinterest board, or inspiration images and develop them into a professional, build-ready plan.

• We’ll still complete a drone survey and site analysis to make sure your concepts actually work with grades, setbacks, and existing conditions.

Think of your sketch as the “raw material,” and our design process as the tool that refines it into something that can be built effectively.

The free consultation is our chance to make sure we’re a good fit and to understand your vision.

Typically, we will:

• Talk about how you want to use your backyard (family time, entertaining, wellness, etc.)

• Review any existing photos, sketches, or surveys you have

• Discuss rough investment ranges and timelines

• Explain our design process, fees, and what you’ll receive

• Earthform handles every step from design through to construction

There’s no pressure to commit on the spot — the goal is clarity and a clear next step.

The drone survey allows us to:

• Capture accurate topography (slopes, highs, lows)

• Understand views, privacy concerns, and surrounding context

• Plan drainage, retaining, and access routes properly

For most full backyard and pool projects, a drone survey is a critical step. It reduces guesswork, prevents costly surprises, and lets us design with real data rather than assumptions.

Yes. 3D visualization is a core part of our design experience.

You can expect:

• High-quality 3D views of key areas

• A guided video walkthrough where we explore the space together

• The ability to see materials, layout, and lighting before construction

Clients often say this is when the project truly “clicks” — they can finally picture themselves in the space.

It’s common for budgets to evolve as you see what’s possible.

• We will talk about budget ranges up front to make sure expectations are realistic.

• During design, if we see the project drifting beyond your comfort zone, we’ll suggest options and phasing to keep things manageable.

• We can often create a master plan that’s executed in stages, so you don’t have to do everything at once.

Open communication around budget is part of a stress-free process.

If you’re considering a backyard transformation, the best next step is to:

• Book a free consultation using the form or button on this page

• Share a few details about your property and goals

• We’ll follow up to discuss fit, timelines, and a tailored design proposal

The design process is where stress disappears and clarity begins — once you’ve seen your future backyard in 3D, the decision to move forward becomes much easier.

From design through construction, Earthform handles every step so you’re not coordinating multiple contractors.