Think Outdoors, Today

Perhaps it's uncommon to yearn for a newly landscaped outdoor living area or even a pool when the fireplace indoors is much preferred. In reality, now is the optimal time to plan the outdoor home living environment you want when spring and summer roll around.

"When it comes to designing an outdoor space, there are two critical factors: timing and planning," says Tony Everett, owner of Custom Land Design. "Winter is when people put outdoor projects on hold, and then later they regret it."

Why? Tony explains that by getting plans started in January, a homeowner jumpstarts the process. Planning can take three to six weeks to discuss and determine the project's details, budget, sign contracts, and so on. A project typically takes one to three months to complete. Custom Land Design is a design-build company that takes a project's concept from start to finish.

"January and February are perfect for doing outdoor construction since the yard is not being used, so there's no disruption," Tony says. "On the other hand, if a homeowner decides to start in April, by the time the details are ironed out we don't get underway until July; then it's October when the landscaping is done or the pool is ready." Plus planting in the winter allows the plant to become established before the heat of the summer.

Precise planning plays a monumental role in a homeowner's satisfaction and Tony's ability to do his job - and do it well. Custom Land Design's clients are mainly residential, with projects that include anything outside the house - from covered porches and outdoor kitchens to landscaping and pool installation. Tony and his 12 employees handle it all from the concept to final drawings, which include finite details on every aspect.

"We aim to create value, and to do so we need a plan," Tony says. "At the end of the day, the homeowner - and this is huge with me - signs a contract only after every design detail is determined and we keep that budget. If the homeowner later adds elements it will cost more, but that is only if additions are made."

Another fees boon: Tony has a BS in landscape architecture from Purdue University but is not an architect, so there are savings right upfront. Tony's passion for his work and quest for perfection are priceless; the word-of-mouth referrals he gets from satisfied clients are proof positive.

"We treat small jobs the same as big jobs," Tony says, "So often the smaller turn into big projects after we please the client the first time." Call him today and find out how much he means what he says.

Custom Land Design can be reached at 704-201-0917 or 704-333-5815 or visit www.customlanddesign.com