Following are many of the questions our customers ask us:

How are Bur Oak Design's services different from those of a landscape contractor?
- We focus on the design of your landscape, allowing us to create a unique solution for you at your location.
- Because we aren't affiliated with one pariticular installer, an additional benefit is that we will choose the most suitable contractor for your job.

In what areas do you work?
- Madison and Dane County, within a two hour radius of Madison. This allows us to easily visit your location during the design and installation process.
- We specialize in plantings suitable for hardiness zones 3, 4, and 5 and work "long distance," with the aid of videos, photos, maps, and telephone consultations.

How much does it cost compared to other contractors?
- You always get what you pay for. When you hire landscape contractors, they might "give you a free design." However, you will probably get a mass-produced plan that may or may not be best for you.
- At Bur Oak Designs, your landscape is individually designed to suit your location and your lifestyle. We share our extensive knowledge of design, plants, and materials to help you create a distinctive, functional space that will stand the test of time. We translate your ideas into a artistic landscape that is as functional as it is beautiful. It may cost a little more but the results are worth it.

I'd like to install the design myself. Will you assist me?
Of course. Be sure to mention that you will be doing some, most, or all of the work so we can provide you with the product and construction information you will need.

IĠd like to install my landscape design in stages over several years, how can that be done?
There are two ways to do this:
1) We can design a master plan for the entire property, discuss your priorities and then develop a plan to install different phases over 2-3 years. This method creates a unified, landscape design for that takes into consideration all aspects of the property and your needs.
2) If you prefer, we can design only the section you will be installing this season and meet again to develop additional design elements. Though this process produces a good plan, it may not be as cohesive as designing a master plan.

How long does it take to complete a design?
Usually a month to 6 weeks. Allow more time between March and June.
The design is a collaborative process between you and our designer; adequate time is needed for you to express your ideas, have input in the design, and allow it to grow into the perfect plan to fit your taste and needs.

Do you design residential and commercial plans?
- We do both. Most of our clients are residential though we have designed plans to improve curb appeal at commercial and professional buildings, as well as complete landscape designs for architects, builders, and developers.
- We design basic plans for new development to complicated redesigns to improve drainage, prevent erosion, reduce maintenance, or meet the needs of an active family.
- We create designs that are appropriate to the design of the building whether contemporary or period. We have experience designing decks, patios, fences, free-standing and retaining walls, rain gardens, and structures, such as arbors and pergolas.

Do you have experience with water gardens or ponds?
- Yes, we feel that water gardens greatly enhance a landscape. We design water features for minimum maintenance and maximum safety when children are around.