Timeline varies significantly by project scope and seasonal requirements. Focused projects (new terrace, foundation planting, targeted drainage): 2-4 weeks typically. Medium-scope projects (multiple terraces, extensive planting, site grading): 6-12 weeks. Complete estate landscapes: 3-6 months for initial construction, with additional time for establishment. Multi-year phasing common for large properties—allows budget spreading and seasonal appropriateness. Weather affects outdoor work—summer heat limits planting, winter freezing stops masonry, spring mud delays earthwork. Proposals include realistic timeline estimates based on project scope and seasonal constraints.

Yes. We collaborate regularly with landscape architects throughout Westchester and Fairfield counties. Some projects arrive with complete architect plans requiring construction execution. Other projects we design in-house through consultation process. Both approaches work well. When working from architect plans, we coordinate closely during design phase—providing constructability input, material sourcing guidance, realistic cost estimates, seasonal timing recommendations. This collaboration protects both design intent and execution reality.

Landscape construction investment varies widely based on scope, materials, site conditions, and project complexity. Focused projects (new stone terrace, foundation plantings, targeted drainage): $25,000-$50,000 typically. Medium-scope work (multiple terraces, extensive borders, site grading, specimen trees): $50,000-$100,000. Substantial renovation (complete property hardscaping, comprehensive planting, drainage systems): $100,000-$200,000. Estate-scale development (multi-acre properties, complex grading, extensive stonework, comprehensive planting): $200,000+, often phased over multiple years. Site visits allow accurate proposals based on your specific property and objectives.

Detailed proposals after site visit provide itemized breakdown: materials (stone, plants, soil amendments) specified with quantities and costs; labor estimated based on project scope and timeline; equipment use (excavation, grading, material moving); any required permits or engineering. Proposals reflect site-specific requirements—not cost per square foot formulas that ignore actual conditions. Challenging sites (steep slopes, difficult access, rock ledge, mature tree protection) cost more than simple sites regardless of square footage. Deposits typically 25-30% to begin work, with progress payments based on project milestones.

Client responsibility to obtain permits, but we provide information needed for applications: site plans, material specifications, construction approach, drainage details, tree protection measures. We're familiar with requirements throughout Westchester and Fairfield counties and can guide application process. Some towns require permits for retaining walls over certain heights, significant grading, work near wetlands, tree removal over certain diameter. We identify potential permit needs during site visit and clarify requirements before starting work.

Yes, with appropriate care and realistic expectations. Mature tree protection crucial—we establish protection zones, avoid root damage, prevent soil compaction in critical root zones, maintain appropriate grades around trunks. Sometimes property improvements require difficult decisions about existing trees—we provide honest assessment of what's possible while protecting tree health. Established gardens can often be protected or transplanted if valuable. Perennials generally transplant successfully with proper timing and care.

Yes. Seasonal maintenance services available for completed landscape projects: perennial care (deadheading, division, trimming), mulching and edging, plant health monitoring, seasonal property opening/closing, irrigation management. Monthly or seasonal schedules available. Same crews who built your landscape handle maintenance when possible—consistency protects investment and maintains design intent. Many client relationships continue decades after initial construction through ongoing maintenance.

Multi-year phasing is common for large properties and works well when planned appropriately from start. Initial site visit and master planning considers complete vision, then phasing staged logically: Year 1 might focus on critical drainage, primary access, core hardscaping; Year 2 adds major planting areas, additional terraces, specimen trees; Year 3 completes details, establishes final gardens. Phasing allows budget spreading, seasonal appropriateness, and learning from Phase 1 before committing to later phases.

Primary service area includes Bedford, Katonah, Pound Ridge, Armonk, and throughout northern Westchester County. We regularly work in Fairfield County, Connecticut (Greenwich, New Canaan, Stamford areas). Projects beyond northern Westchester/Fairfield County considered selectively based on scope, access, and timeline. Significant estate work justifies extended service area. Contact us with your location—we'll confirm service availability honestly.

One-year warranty on all stonework, hardscaping, and installed materials. Warranty covers workmanship and structural integrity—not acts of nature (frost heave beyond normal range, tree falls, erosion from extreme weather). Plant warranty more nuanced: Plants guaranteed healthy at installation. Failure from improper planting or material defects replaced within one year. Failure from inadequate watering, improper care, deer damage, or environmental stress not covered. We provide detailed care instructions and remain available for questions during establishment.

Yes. References provided upon request after initial consultation. We've maintained relationships with properties for decades—many clients worked with multiple generations of our family. References selected based on project similarity to your requirements. We also encourage visiting our garden center to assess operation quality, meet team members, observe how we maintain our own property.