DESIGN & PLANNING

Thoughtful Landscape Design, Built to Last

From site analysis to build‑ready plans, we turn vision into a clear roadmap. Get concepts, 3D previews, planting plans, and construction details tailored to your property and budget.

PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Design First. Build Better.

Great outdoor spaces begin with great planning. Our designers blend function and aesthetics—solving grades, circulation, micro‑climates, and maintenance needs—so your new landscape feels effortless from day one.

We deliver clear drawings and specs so installers can price accurately and build efficiently. The result: fewer surprises, stronger outcomes, and a space you love to live in.

WHAT WE DELIVER

Design & Planning Services

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Site Analysis & Measuring

We document grades, drainage, utilities, views, and existing vegetation. This context informs every design decision and prevents costly mistakes later.

  • Topography & drainage notes
  • Sun/shade & wind patterns
  • Photos & measurements
  • Code & HOA considerations
Site analysis on property
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Concept Plans

Multiple layout options that balance flow, function, and style. We explore patio sizing, planting zones, lawn areas, and feature placement to find the best fit.

  • 2–3 concept layouts
  • Hardscape/softscape zoning
  • Rough materials palette
  • Budget alignment
Landscape concept sketches
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Build‑Ready Plans

Scaled drawings with dimensions and callouts so contractors can price and build accurately. Includes details for patios, walls, beds, and lighting.

  • Layout & dimensions
  • Materials & edge conditions
  • Sections/details as needed
  • Lighting & irrigation notes
Detailed construction plan
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Planting Plans

Right plant, right place. We specify species and spacing suited to Colorado’s climate for four‑season interest and long‑term health.

  • Species & cultivars list
  • Quantities & spacing
  • Bloom & seasonal interest
  • Water & maintenance notes
Planting plan with symbols
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3D Renders & Mood Boards

See it before it’s built. Visualizations and material boards help finalize choices and align expectations across all stakeholders.

  • Conceptual 3D views
  • Material & color studies
  • Feature callouts
  • Revision rounds included
3D landscape rendering
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Permitting & Bid Support

We prepare submittal packages and coordinate with installers so your project moves smoothly from approval to groundbreaking.

  • Permit‑ready PDFs
  • Specs & takeoffs
  • Contractor coordination
  • Construction walk‑throughs
Permitting and documentation

HOW IT WORKS

Our Design Process

1

Consult

We meet on site (or virtually) to discuss goals, style, use‑cases, and budget. You’ll get a clear scope and timeline for your design package.

2

Concept

We develop layout options and a materials direction. You pick a favorite and we merge the best ideas into one refined scheme.

3

Refine

Details take shape—dimensions, plant palettes, lighting, and edges. We iterate with your feedback until everything clicks.

4

Build‑Ready

We deliver drawings and specs contractors can bid and build from—reducing change orders and keeping the project on track.

TOOLS & DELIVERABLES

What You’ll Receive

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Scaled PDFs & CAD Exports

Plan sets delivered as shareable PDFs; CAD exports available for contractors and municipalities.

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Material Boards

Curated selections for pavers, stone, mulch, edging, and lighting to keep the look cohesive.

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Water‑Wise Plant Lists

Drought‑tolerant selections suited to our altitude and seasons for lower maintenance and strong performance.

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Lighting Layouts

Fixture types, beam spreads, and transformer notes for safe, beautiful night scenes.

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Irrigation Notes

Zones, emitters, and controller guidance to support healthy plants and efficient watering.

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Bid‑Ready Package

Everything your installer needs to price accurately and build to spec.

WHY FRANCO

Why Design With Us

Colorado Expertise

Our plans account for altitude, soil, and water restrictions—so they work beautifully here, not just on paper.

Budget‑Smart Options

We phase projects when helpful and spec materials that deliver the look you want at a price you’re comfortable with.

Builder‑Friendly Drawings

Clear dimensions and details reduce guesswork and help crews finish on time.

End‑to‑End Support

From the first sketch to the final walkthrough, we’re your partner in getting it right.

Ready to Turn Ideas Into a Plan?

Book a design consult and we’ll map out the steps to a beautiful, buildable landscape.

QUESTIONS?

Design & Planning FAQs

How long does the design process take?

Most projects take 2–6 weeks depending on scope, revisions, and permitting needs. We’ll outline a clear schedule after your consult.

Do I have to build with Franco after design?

You own the plans. While many clients continue with us for a seamless build, you can bid the project with any qualified contractor.

What’s included in a typical plan set?

Scaled layout, materials/specs, planting plan, lighting notes, and detail callouts. 3D views and permitting support are available add‑ons.

Can you phase a project over time?

Yes. We often structure plans in phases to match budget and seasonal windows while keeping the final vision cohesive.