top of page

A Clear, Thoughtful Process from Start to Finish

 

A successful landscape project is not just about good workmanship—it is about making the right decisions at the right time.

Our process is designed to reduce uncertainty, avoid surprises, and ensure that what gets built works properly for your property, your budget, and your long-term goals.

Not every project follows the exact same path, but the principles remain consistent.

                                                                                                                

  • Understand use, lifestyle, and goals

  • Define the relationship between home and landscape

  • Establish clear design intent

  • Review grades, drainage, and access

  • Evaluate sun, wind, and sightlines

  • Document existing conditions

​

  • Set layout and spatial organization

  • Define zones, scale, and geometry

  • Establish design direction

​

  • Refine materials and elevations

  • Coordinate technical elements

  • Align design with budget

01

Discovery & Intent Alignment

02

Site Analysis & Technical Review

03

Concept Design

04

Design Development & Budget Alignment

​

  • Finalize dimensions and details

  • Define sequencing and coordination

  • Prepare build-ready documentation

05

Construction Planning & Documentation

06

Build Execution

07

Review & Completion

08

Long Term Value & Follow-up

​

​

  • Execute design as documented

  • Maintain quality and consistency

  • Manage installation and sequencing

​

  • Confirm intent is fulfilled

  • Resolve final details

  • Deliver a complete, cohesive landscape

​

  • Confirm intent is fulfilled

  • Resolve final details

  • Deliver a complete, cohesive landscape

Step 1 — Initial Conversation

 

Every project starts with a conversation.

We discuss:

  • Your goals and priorities

  • The property and any known constraints

  • Budget range and timing considerations

  • Whether design, construction, or both are required

This first step helps determine if we are the right fit and what the most appropriate next step should be.

                                                                                                                

Right-Sized Planning (Design When It Adds Value)

​

Most of the projects we work on benefit from a design phase. Design allows us to solve grading, drainage, layout, and material decisions before construction begins, which reduces surprises and leads to better long-term results.

​

That said, not every project requires formal design.

​

Simple, well-defined work—such as straightforward interlock repairs, small replacements, or limited-scope upgrades—can often move directly into construction once the site is reviewed.

During the initial conversation, we will explain clearly:

  • Whether design is recommended

  • What level of planning makes sense

  • Where design adds value—and where it does not

Our goal is to apply the right amount of planning, not more than necessary.

                                                                                                                

Step 2 — Site Review & Information Gathering

 

For projects that move forward, we take time to understand the site properly. This may include:

  • Reviewing elevations, drainage, and access

  • Assessing existing structures and utilities

  • Identifying site constraints early

  • Discussing material options and performance

Good decisions depend on good information.

                                                                                                                

Step 3 — Design & Planning (2D & 3D)

 

When design is required, we develop plans that are both practical and easy to understand.

Depending on the project, design may include:

  • 2D layout drawings for accurate dimensions and planning

  • 3D visualizations to help you understand how the finished space will look and feel

  • Material selection and detailing

  • Construction sequencing considerations

Our designs are created with real-world construction in mind—not just visuals—so what you see on screen translates cleanly into what gets built.

                                                                                                                

Design Ownership & Flexibility

 

All design work we produce is owned by you.​

If you decide to move forward with us, the design flows directly into construction. If you choose to obtain additional quotes or explore other options, you are free to do so using the design we created.

​

We believe good design should add clarity and value, not lock you into a decision.

                                                                                                                

Step 4 — Proposal & Scope Definition

 

Once the design or direction is clear, we prepare a detailed proposal outlining:

  • Scope of work

  • Materials and construction methods

  • Allowances or variables where applicable

  • Timeline expectations

We take time to review the proposal with you so expectations are aligned before work begins.

                                                                                                                

Transparent Pricing and Clear Scope

 

We believe pricing should be clear, understandable, and aligned with the actual work being performed.

​

Our proposals are structured to:

  • Clearly define what is included

  • Identify material selections and construction methods

  • Avoid vague or bundled pricing

  • Explain variables or unknowns upfront

​

If something cannot be priced with certainty due to site conditions, we explain why and discuss options before proceeding.

There are no surprise line items added mid-project without discussion. Clear scope and transparent pricing are essential to a smooth build.

                                                                                                                

Step 6 — Construction

 

During construction, we focus on:

  • Proper base preparation and structure

  • Clean, organized job sites

  • Respect for existing property and neighbours

  • Clear communication if conditions require adjustments

We do not rush work at the expense of quality. If changes are required, they are discussed before proceeding.

                                                                                                                

Step 7 — Completion & Review

 

Once the project is complete, we review the work with you to ensure:

  • The agreed scope has been delivered

  • Details are finished properly

  • Any final questions are addressed

Our goal is not just completion, but confidence in the finished result.

                                                                                                                

A Process Built on Experience

 

This process reflects years of experience working on real properties with real constraints—grading, drainage, utilities, weather, and budgets.

Whether a project requires full design and planning or a more direct construction approach, we focus on clarity, fairness, and long-term performance.

                                                                                                                

Ready to Get Started?

 

If you are considering a project and want a clear, realistic path forward, we are happy to talk.

Visit the Contact page to book a consultation or ask a question.

                                                                                                                

Your paragraph text (2).png

Horvath Landscapes at a Glance

Horvath Landscapes Inc. designs and builds outdoor spaces for homeowners across Aurora and the GTA, with a focus on clean, modern, low-maintenance landscapes. Our team handles everything from the first concept sketch to the final walkthrough on site.

​

Horvath Landscapes has been serving homeowners in the Greater Toronto Area since 1976 and is proudly listed on Google and Houzz. We hold a 5-star Google rating, nine “Best of Houzz Design” awards since 2016, ICPI certification for interlock and paver installation, and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

​

Key Services

  • Landscape design and 2D/3D planning

  • Interlock paving, porcelain tile patios, and concrete surfaces

  • Fiberglass and concrete swimming pools

  • Landscape lighting and planting design

  • Retaining walls, steps, porches, and front entrances

  • Decks, pergolas, cabanas, and other outdoor structures

  • Drainage correction, grading, and permit drawings / submission support for pools, fences, and other landscape work​

​

bottom of page