How to Design a Landscape With a Retaining Wall

Obtain a plot plan of your lot. If you are building a new home the builder or developer will have one available. If a plot plan is not available, you can have the lot surveyed to find out the grade of the slope or lot. If you have a landscape design company helping you with your plans, these things will be a part of the service they provide.

Consult landscape design resources for ideas that will fit your lot. If the retaining wall is a necessary feature due to a heavy slope, look at similar designs. If the retaining wall is simply a feature you wish to add as a focal point, a variety of designs can be considered. The wall can be used to create and separate outdoor living areas such as a patio, arrange large planting areas or create a pathway. Select two to three choices that fit the need and look you desire.

Compare the building material samples to the design choices you made. Select the materials that fit the look and style of your plans.

Meet with the landscapers individually and discuss the selected plans with them. Give them the design choices you have made and the material selections. Ask for opinions on these selections, and request bids from each based on the agreed information. Be sure you take into consideration that prices may vary if you are getting variations on designs from each landscaper. Comparisons are best made if the plans are identical.

Compare the plans and bids submitted by the landscapers. Decide which best fits the theme of your home and the budget you have allowed. Take into account possible cost overruns or changes that you may decide on before hiring the contractor to do the project.

Use an online landscape design tool as an option to either play with ideas yourself or draw up a layman's version of the design you would like. The online landscape tool can be of help in understanding your design ideas and submitting a clear and concise plan to your landscape contractor.