Our Process
A Clear Path From Design to Finished Outdoor Living Space
From first conversation to final walkthrough, Design Scapes guides West LA and South Bay homeowners through a designer-led process built for real site conditions, cleaner communication, and a better finished result.
Proposal is free; site visit is applied to your project.
The Simple Version
Three Steps to a Finished Outdoor Space
1
Schedule Your Consultation
2
Approve the Design, Scope, and Materials
3
Relax While We Build It
Have a date or season in mind? We can align the scope and build timing around how you actually want to use the space.
In More Detail
How the Full Process Works
Eight steps from first conversation through final warranty check-up — each one designed to keep the project organized and the homeowner informed.
1
Initial Consultation
Review goals, layout needs, budget range, timeline, and how the space should function day to day.
2
Proposal & Scope Alignment
Present a clearer proposal so the homeowner can understand what is included before moving forward.
3
Design Layout & Material Direction
Confirm layout, surfaces, circulation, shade, planting, drainage, and the overall look and feel.
4
Engineering, Permits & Approvals
Coordinate permits, HOA approvals, and any engineering requirements when the project calls for them.
5
Pre-Build Planning
Order long-lead materials, finalize sequencing, and lock the build window before construction begins.
6
Construction & Project Management
One in-house crew moves the project forward with organized communication and milestone updates.
7
Final Walkthrough & Touch-Ups
Review the completed work together and resolve final details before the project is signed off.
8
Warranty Check-Ups
Revisit the project at 3 weeks, 3 months, and 9 months to make sure everything is performing as intended.
One Team, One Process
One Team, One Process, Fewer Surprises
Design Scapes keeps the project simpler by managing design, scope, scheduling, materials, and construction through one accountable team. That means fewer handoff problems, cleaner communication, and a smoother experience for homeowners who do not want to chase multiple contractors just to keep a project moving.
One point of contact from planning through build — not a different person at every phase.
One in-house crew, one project at a time — full attention on your project throughout.
Organized communication around milestones and next steps — so you always know where the project stands.
A cleaner path for permits, material orders, and schedule coordination — handled without extra effort from the homeowner.
What Gets Handled
What We Take Off Your Plate
Permits & Inspections
When the project requires permits or inspections, Design Scapes coordinates the process as part of the build.
HOA Coordination
When HOA approvals or documentation are needed, that coordination is managed as part of the project scope.
Material Ordering & Scheduling
Long-lead items, material selections, and delivery scheduling are managed so the build window stays on track.
Drainage, Slope & Retaining
Site conditions like grade changes, runoff, and retaining needs are addressed in the plan — not discovered mid-build.
Utility Coordination
Gas, electrical, drainage, and utility planning for kitchens, lighting, and fire features — coordinated cleanly.
Coastal & Durability Finish Decisions
Material and finish choices selected for the West LA and South Bay environment — not just for appearance on day one.
Hardscape Certified
ICPI certified: concrete pavers and outdoor living design.
Retaining Wall Experts
NCMA certified: retaining walls, drainage, and tiered designs.
Smart Irrigation
Rain Bird certified irrigation professional.
Deck Design Experts
NADRA certified: decks, patio covers, and outdoor structures.
“On time, on budget, and built to last for real outdoor living.”
Featured Work
The Process in Action
Outdoor spaces built for the way you live — across West LA and the South Bay.
Proudly serving West LA and the South Bay, including Santa Monica, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach. View all service areas →
Get Started
Want to talk through your space, priorities, and the clearest next step?
Common Questions
Process FAQ
Questions about timelines, permits, phasing, or warranty coverage? We’ll walk through the specifics for your project and property.
Is the proposal or site visit free?
Proposal is free. If a site visit is required, that fee is applied to your project.
Who will be working on my property?
One in-house crew handles the build, which keeps communication and accountability cleaner than a revolving door of subs.
Do you handle permits and inspections?
Yes. When the project requires permits, inspections, engineering, or related coordination, Design Scapes handles that as part of the process.
How long does the process take?
Design usually takes a few weeks, while construction timing depends on scope, materials, and permitting.
Can you phase a project over time?
Yes. When phasing is the right fit for the budget, timeline, or property plan, the work can be structured that way.
What do your warranty check-ups include?
Scheduled follow-up visits at 3 weeks, 3 months, and 9 months so the team can review the finished work and address support items appropriately.