Construction

Often when we start to think of our dream backyard, we consider all of the aspects that we want to include – plants, a fireplace, a small garden wall, a built in BBQ station – but we have a hard time envisioning how all of those would come together as a final project. This is where professional help comes in handy. Landscape designers have an extensive knowledge of how to incorporate colours, materials, textures, and material into a backyard of any size.

As with any well executed project, the key is to always start with a clear plan. A landscape plan provides you with the opportunity to explore and evaluate different materials and options, and create a design which achieves your project goals and maintains your budget. Starting with a landscape plan will provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect during construction, gives the construction team clear direction to follow throughout the project, and ensures that everyone is on the same page with knowing and understanding your desired end goal to make the project successful.

Packages and Pricing Information
There is a high level of detail and care taken in constructing a landscape design, and as such, there is a cost to the service.Design costs will vary based upon your overall needs and requirements for your landscape projects. 

Do-It Yourself: $500
We offer a Do-It Yourself package that starts at $500. Tailored to create a simple and clear design which you can follow and construct yourself. This DIY package offering includes a site meeting at your property, a black and white to-scale drawing of your design, and a written list of materials and plants included in the drawing.

Custom Package: $650 - $2500
If your landscape needs require more details and specifics, we offer a variety of packages ranging from $650 up to $2500, which provide many layers and levels of construction details and landscape plan components. 

With any of our design packages, you will receive a detailed landscape plan which includes the required information to successfully construct your project. Work typically begins with a concept drawing to explore initial ideas, and then develop that based upon what you like or dislike. On the final drawings, you will see a detailed landscape plan with all of the specific materials for your project, as well as material take off lists which include plant material sizes and quantities, as well as area quantities to help when ordering products. On larger plans, we get into specific construction details, which thoroughly explain how to build the desired feature. These details will vary based upon each project, however they are always at a level in which they can be followed and constructed easily.

Learn more about the process - click to view.

If you have any further questions about landscape designs, please reach out to our office at 403-239-0600 or Contact Us through the website.

Frequently asked questions

Q1: When can I expect work to start?

Depending upon the scope of the project, work can start on your project in a few short days, or the design process can take upwards of a few weeks. We want to make sure everyone is on the same page, nothing is forgotten, and that all of your questions are answered before we start to dig. It is much easier to incorporate an outdoor feature into the initial drawings than to try and work it in once work has already began.

While our office is open all year round, it is simply not feasible for us to perform installations when the ground is frozen. Sometimes we get lucky and can start our install season in April and finish in November, depending upon what we are installing. Regardless, our staff are in the office all year round to answer your questions and get you started on your project.

Q2: How long do landscape installations take to complete?

This ultimately depends upon the scope of the job. A simple installation of mulch or ground cover can be completed in a day or two by a small crew, while a patio or walkway can take one week. Throw in a retaining wall, fire feature, or an outdoor kitchen, and the crew could be around for a few weeks finalizing your project. Additions or complications that arise during the installation process will extend the work time. This is why we send out a questionnaire, meet you on site for a walkthrough, and send you an estimate prior to starting work to ensure that everyone is on the same page. We are always just a phone call away if you have any questions or concerns.

Q3: Do you include plants and trees in your landscape designs?

Yes, we do! Being affiliated with Stewart Tree Farms, we have access to a great variety of mature, chinook-hardy trees. With both deciduous and coniferous options there is something for everyone. You can even stop by our yard and hand pick your own trees! We also have several sources for shrubs, flowers, and grasses.

We only supply plants and trees that we know are suitable for the Calgary climate, so you can be rest assured that your plants will not only look great the day that they are installed, but that they will grow well and look beautiful for years to come.

Perhaps you love red flowers, or want a stunning accent tree to put in your front yard. Our design team will be more than happy to work your request into your design. Give us a call and we can start designing the perfect backyard for your tastes.

Q4: What can I expect during the construction period?

Hardscape installations are messy work. There will be mud, but it will be gorgeous in the end. Nearly all of our work produces dirt and dust. For this reason, we advise our customers to keep doors and windows closed and to remove outdoor furniture from the construction area.

Unless your project involves overlaying existing concrete, the first step for a patio installation is to excavate the top layer of soil. The amount of soil excavated will depend on the type of project. Typically, the next step is to install a layer of compacted aggregate, then a layer of bedding sand, then the pavers themselves, and then jointing material spread between the stones to hold everything in place and prevent weeds.

Typically our installers start their days at about 8am and complete the day at 5pm. Our installers will keep your yard as tidy as possible and always clean up before leaving the job site in the evening. They will be courteous and polite while they work, and help to answer any questions you may have about the work they are performing.

Our ready access to the best materials and efficient deliveries combined with a well-trained staff ensure that your project will be a success. It’s our mission to ensure it!

Q5: What type of landscape construction projects does CLS work on?

We work on all types of landscape projects! From a simple mulch installation to a driveway install to a backyard oasis that includes a patio, retaining walls, an outdoor kitchen, and a fireplace – we can do it all.

We follow all industry standards in landscape construction, so you can rest easy knowing the hard work is being performed by experts who are held to the highest standards.