We welcome a flexible and dynamic design process
collaboration and conversation help us create the most functional, inviting spaces that meet your needs and make you want to stay a while.
how we work
Lookout is currently focusing on residential and small-scale commercial, institutional and not-for-profit work. while diverse projects require diverse design approaches, most of our projects will look something like this:
pre-design
project parameters & site reconnaissance
The information gathering phase. Before we dive into design, we want to get to know you, your project goals and the physical site we’re working with.
We’ll spend ample time with you to understand your vision and collaboratively create a design program and shared direction for the project. In addition, we’ll thoroughly document and analyze existing site conditions including topography, drainage, vegetation, sun/shade pattern, soils and many other elements necessary to create a well-informed design that responds to the unique characteristics of the project site.
This phase is all about thoroughly learning about- and responding to- the challenges and potentials of each project’s context.
pre design can include:
initial meetings and project site walkthroughs
project proposal
site inventory and analysis
aerial photography and measurements and/or surveying
design
schematic design to construction documents
The heart of what we do. Design includes everything from quick iterations (sketches, modeling, diagramming, mood boarding) to the final drafted plans. This is where we generate ideas, layouts and plant palettes, communicate them visually, and collaboratively refine our work to produce plans for construction.
The design phase includes both schematic design (SD) where we create initial concepts to explore the potential of the project, design development (DD) where we dive deeper into the ideas we’re gravitating to, choosing a more concrete direction with layout, plants and hardscape materials. If permits are required for the job, we will produce a permit set during this phase. Lastly, the construction documents (CD) phase is where we complete all detailed drawings necessary for construction.
At the close of the design phase, we can begin procuring ballpark estimates from our trusted contractors and strategize next steps.
design can include:
concept design perspectives, elevations and plan views
concept design precedent imagery, and material and plant palettes
schematic design review meeting
landscape master plan
materials plan
planting plan and plant schedule
preliminary elevation and construction detailing for bidding purposes
construction
It’s time to see your project come to life. After on-boarding a contractor, we’ll finish up construction details and make adjustments to the final design based on initial construction estimates and material availability.
Once construction begins, Lookout will make regular site visits to review materials and layout and source all the best plants in the region for planting day. We’ll be in contact with you and the contractor every step of the way to answer questions and clarify design intent.
As the dust settles and everything is in its place, we will do a final walk-through and share our tailored maintenance plan for your new landscape. Of course, given the nature of an evolving landscape, we will check in during the subsequent seasons to provide any recommendations and support to ensure the success of your thriving new outdoor space.
installation & establishment
construction can include:
construction details
site visits to material stock yards and wholesale nurseries
construction site visits to provide design direction for contractor throughout installation
plant procurement, delivery and layout
maintenance recommendation packet
seasonal check ins to provide support for successful establishment
PRO BONO
We reserve a portion of our design hours to provide pro bono services to not-for-profit and community organizations in need. We’d be happy to talk further to see if we are aligned. Please reach out, we’d love to hear from you.