Creating an outdoor living space is beneficial in a variety of ways. By increasing the visual appeal and usability of your property, you are increasing the value of your home and your lifestyle. It’s easy to be a ‘do-it-yourselfer’ these days, however the outdoor spaces people dream of are often results of a professional. Here are four reasons to choose a reputable, experienced design/build firm.
PROS KNOW PROS
Reputable design firms hire quality contractors and subcontractors. After years of experience, businesses have established relationships with companies of all different trades concrete, masonry, plumbing, electrical, pools) and work together to make your outdoor living dreams a reality. Coordination with subcontractors is essential to staying on track with budgets and timelines. The greatest design and perfectly executed project can go south very quickly with the selection of poor contractors or subcontractors.
USE OF SPACE
It takes experience to know how people use their outdoor spaces, and sometimes looking at the site objectively is truly an advantage. For me, it is easy to visualize how to best utilize a space for your wants and needs. Second guessing creativity, logistics of building, budgets, etc. can instantly hinder the important first impression of a project’s potential. Layout, size, material selection, etc. should all center around how the space will be used. An outdoor living space is an investment and a long-term commitment, so utilizing the space to its highest potential is key. Seasonal usage is another major factor. What can be included in the design that will increase the usability of the space? A pool? A fireplace? Lighting? Taking all of this in to account will allow you to spend your money wisely and truly enjoy your space all year long. COMPLEXITY AND COHESIVENESS
The most appealing outdoor spaces are typically not a simple, flat patio with some shrubs. Grade changes, material selections, and a variety of elements such as patios, walls, steps, pergolas, etc. all add to the overall look and feel of the outdoor space. It requires a professional with a creative eye to plan out and build interesting yet cohesive spaces. This often means turning what may at first appear as a project challenge into an important design element, gaining the most visual appeal and the most usability. The complexity of a site may drive people to take the easy way out or limit the potential of a project.
BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
Quality products and workmanship are not cheap and for good reason. Material selections, in particular, can make or break your project, as well as your budget. Creating a thoughtful outdoor space requires a great deal of coordination with a variety of elements. Experts know what is worth spending money on and where your money would be poorly spent. Often people need reminding that there is always a cheaper way to get something done, but that it will only cost more in the long run if not done properly the first time. Professionals will be mindful of the point of diminishing return on your money invested in the project. But, when it’s said and done, it’s important to keep in mind that you get what you pay for. For an extensive and specialized project, you don’t want to have any regrets.
JAKE FRINK
Jake Frink is a Columbia native who enjoys working and playing in outdoor spaces. He has a degree in plant science and landscape design from MU. With Rost Landscaping for nearly 18 years, Jake is the Design Manager. His natural talent for creating beautiful outdoor spaces gives him a huge sense of satisfaction. Jake considers himself to be a very lucky husband as well as a lucky dad of three great kids.
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