A backyard makeover is exciting. The hard part is knowing where to start. Most homeowners have a vague picture in their head and no clear path to get there. That gap is exactly why a real design process matters. Learning how to design an outdoor space that fits your home, your budget, and the way you live takes more than a quick sketch. We built our process to take the guesswork out of it, step by step.
Where to Start When You Design an Outdoor Space
Every great outdoor space starts with a clear plan, not a guess. Our process begins before anyone picks up a shovel.
The Design Discovery Call
We kick things off with a design discovery call. It takes about 30 minutes. We review your project and its scope, whether that is a pool, an outdoor living project, or both. Those are the anchors we build everything else around.
Making Sure We are the Right Fit
The call also helps us confirm we are the best fit for your project. If we are, we move you into the next phase. This step protects your time and ours, and it sets the project up to succeed.
Key Takeaway: A strong outdoor space starts with a conversation, not a contract. Our 30-minute discovery call defines the scope and confirms we are the right team for the job.
Our In-Home Design Process
Once we are a fit, we come to you. This is where the design really takes shape.
The In-Home Design Visit
We visit your home with a designer and a guide. The guide covers scope, design questions, and any access constraints. The designer captures the details that make the plan accurate:
- Measurements of the existing space
- Photos of the current house
- A review of how the space will function, including how you plan to live in it
We also scan your property with an RTK scanner, which gives us accurate data to design from.
3D Renderings and a Zoom Review
Within five to seven business days, we create a 3D rendering of your project. Then we meet again over Zoom to review it together. We fine-tune the design until it looks exactly the way you want. Once the design and materials are set, we complete a takeoff and present budgetary numbers.
Need expert help bringing your outdoor space to life? Contact Hinkle for a free consultation.
A Process Built for Every Homeowner
No two clients start in the same place. Our process flexes to meet you where you are.
If You are Not Sure What You Want
Some homeowners have no idea where to begin, and that is exactly who our design process was built for. We guide you step by step, from the overall design to the material selections. There is no pressure to have it all figured out before you call. The RTK property scan means we know how the finished project will look before we build.
Design an Outdoor Space You Have Already Started
Other homeowners come to us with a head start. You may have sketched ideas or worked with another designer.
We confirm the design is what you want, then bring it into our system as a 3D concept. We scan your property to check that the plan is functional, the elevations are accurate, and the project can actually be built. From there, we work with you to finalize it.
Pro Tip: Bring whatever you have to the first call, even a rough sketch or a photo of a design you love. It saves time and helps us turn your vision into something we can build.
Build Your Outdoor Space with Confidence
A great outdoor living project does not happen by accident. It comes from a clear process, accurate data, and a team that listens. From the first call to the final rendering, we keep you informed and in control every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Contact Hinkle today for a free consultation, and let us help you design an outdoor space you will love for years.
