LASD Studio Design Process
Where Art and Nature evolve into Living Landscape
At LASD Studio, every project follows a clear professional structure that guides the landscape design from early vision to completed construction.
Our work typically moves through four principal design phases: Concept Design, Design Development, Permitting, and Construction Administration.
Landscape Design Process in Phases
Each project develops in response to its site, its architecture, and its long-term intent.
Some landscapes begin with a conceptual exploration. Others require a deeper level of technical development, permitting coordination, and detailed construction documentation.
The process is structured in phases to allow clarity at each step.
Not every project requires every phase. Some remain conceptual. Others evolve into fully developed, built environments supported through construction.
Our working process
Phase A. Site Analysis & Conceptual Landscape Design
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Phase B. Design Development & Technical Documentation
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Phase C. Permitting & Regulatory Coordination (when required)
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Phase D. Construction and/or Construction Administration (when required)
This phased approach allows the work to remain precise, adaptable, and grounded in the realities of the site as it unfolds over time.
Considering a landscape project?
Receive a structured outline of your project, including design direction, phases, and estimated ranges - before any commitment.
Phase A. Site Analysis and Conceptual Landscape Design
Following the consultation, we prepare a Concept Design Agreement describing scope and professional fees.
Once engaged, we schedule an on-site visit to document the property. During this visit we photograph the site, observe spatial relationships, and refine project objectives.
We then develop conceptual landscape ideas, including:
Site Analysis: Measurements & Architectural style,
Conceptual Design Narrative & Master layout: Spatial organization & garden atmosphere and character,
Ecological system Layout & how we approach site specific design,
Storm-water, fire hazard consideration, main issues and challenges cause exploration,
Material direction & preliminary planting strategy,
Conceptual budget guidance - conceptual construction cost analyses, for better financial decision.
Concept concepts are presented through sketches, diagrams, and a written design narrative.
Client approval of the concept phase allows the project to advance to detailed design (Phase B).
Delivery: 4-6 weeks.
Design fee structure: Fixed fee, per individual contract. Request a Preliminary Design Proposal to find out more.
Phase B. Design Development & Technical Documentation
In this phase, the conceptual vision is translated into build-ready documentation.
Our studio prepares detailed construction drawings tailored to the specific property, typically including 14 ArchD sheets of drawings and specs:
• Conceptual plan, Site plan and Master layout, based on Phase A sketches & client feedback;
• Fire Prevention Plan (Fuel Modification), Storm-Water Plan;
• Hardscape design and detailed construction details;
• Planting Design & Ecological narrative and construction specs;
• Irrigation, Drainage and Lighting plans with specs;
• Technical specifications and Detailed Budget for construction - BID docs;
• In case when Construction budget is over 175k, we provide 3D visualizations and visual narratives to make the right decisions.
This stage ensures design clarity, technical precision, and construction feasibility.
Design fee structure: Fixed fee, per individual contract. Schedule Design Consultation
Phase C. Permitting & Regulatory Coordination (if required)
Where required, we coordinate documentation for regulatory approvals & permit the design.
This may include:
• Building Department submissions;
• HOA review packages;
• Fire Compliance requirements;
• coordination with engineers or consultants etc.
Our role is to maintain alignment between regulatory requirements and the design vision.
Design fee structure: Fixed fee, per individual contract. Schedule Design Consultation
Phase D. Construction and/or Construction Administration
During construction, LASD Studio acts as the design authority representing the client, while working with trusted contractors, or other contractors on client choice.
Our involvement typically includes:
• reviewing contractor bids;
• clarifying scope and specifications;
• advising on construction budgeting,
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• site visits during key construction stages & construction minutes;
• coordination with contractors;
• clarification of design details;
• review of materials and installation.
This oversight protects design integrity and helps maintain construction quality.
Design fee structure: Fixed fee, per individual contract. Schedule Design Consultation
Final Review & Completion
At project completion, we conduct a detailed walkthrough to review construction quality, planting installation, and long-term landscape performance.
Guidance is provided for the early establishment period so the landscape can mature successfully.
The result is a landscape designed not only for immediate beauty, but for long-term growth, ecological resilience, and lasting value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer free site visits?
We begin with a complimentary phone consultation to understand your goals and explain our design process, timeline, and fee structure.
All on-site visits are conducted as part of a formal Concept Design engagement, ensuring that our time on your property is dedicated, focused, and professionally structured.
What is the typical investment range for a private estate project?
While every property is unique, most of our projects range from mid-six figures to multi-million-dollar construction budgets. Design fees are structured proportionally.
Do you work with my existing architect or builder?
Yes. We frequently collaborate with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure cohesive integration of the landscape with the built environment.
Is construction oversight required?
While not legally required, we strongly recommend construction oversight to protect design integrity and ensure accurate implementation.
During this phase, LASD Studio reviews materials, coordinates with contractors, and verifies that the approved plans are executed correctly - safeguarding both quality and long-term performance.
How long does the process typically take?
Concept development typically requires several weeks, with full design documentation and permitting timelines varying depending on project scale and jurisdiction, but minimum 3 month.
Do you take on projects outside of San Diego & LA?
Yes. LASD Studio works internationally on select commissions.