Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs)

Landscape architecture is an interdisciplinary field that seamlessly integrates art, science, environmental studies, ecology, hydrology, and architecture to design outdoor environments across various scales. It encompasses all spaces beyond the built environment, falling within the specialized expertise of landscape architects. As inherently social beings, humans rely on landscapes to serve as a vital bridge, connecting the human world with the broader natural and ecological systems.

According to our experts, the timeline for a project varies based on its scale and complexity. A small farmhouse may take approximately four to six weeks to complete, while larger projects can extend to a year or more. The extended timeline typically applies to projects that involve the construction of water bodies or significant hardscape elements. Landscaping and planting are generally carried out toward the final stages of the process.

This timelines are strictly for Landscape areas. civil works related to build structures are as per the PMC or the architect.

Great question this is a common source of confusion! Let’s break it down:

1. Scope of Work

• Landscape Architect: Focuses on the big picture designing outdoor spaces (parks, gardens, urban plazas, campuses, even large-scale master plans) with an eye on technicality, aesthetics, functionality, environmental sustainability, and human experience. They blend architecture, urban planning, and ecology.

• Horticulturist: Specializes in plants their cultivation, health, and maintenance. They understand soil science, plant biology, and how to make vegetation thrive, but they don’t design large spaces or consider urban infrastructure.

2. Skills and Training

• Landscape Architects usually hold a degree in landscape architecture which takes 7 years of education and are trained in design principles, site planning, construction techniques, environmental systems, and even software like CAD or GIS.

• Horticulturists study plant sciences a 3 year course botany, agronomy, or horticulture and dive deep into plant selection, pest control, soil science, and plant breeding.

3. End Goal

• Landscape Architect: Designs a complete outdoor environment where people interact with nature comfortably and beautifully. They think about pathways, seating, water features, planting, drainage, lighting and how the space feels.

• Horticulturist: Ensures the plants within that space grow, thrive, and contribute to the aesthetic part more than the built environment and technicality and complexity of the site.

For better understanding Analogy

If an outdoor space were a movie :

• The landscape architect is the director, envisioning the whole scene deciding how the setting should look, feel, and function to create an unforgettable experience.

• The horticulturist is the set manager, carefully arranging the plants (props) to match the vision, ensuring everything looks natural, healthy, and in harmony with the larger design.

It boils down to design vs. maintenance and what you want for your space. Let’s break it down:

Why hire a Landscape Architect?

Design and Functionality: A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces with a purpose whether it’s a peaceful garden, a lively park, or a welcoming commercial space. They think about how people move through the space, how it feels, and how it functions not just how it looks.

Problem Solving: Got a sloping backyard, drainage issues, or a hot, barren space? Landscape architects solve these problems creatively integrating grading, water management, shade, and wind flow into a beautiful design.

Big Picture Vision: They balance hardscape (paths, patios, walls) and softscape (plants, lawns) ensuring materials, colors, and textures complement each other. A horticulturist focuses only on the plants.

Long-Term Planning: A landscape architect designs with growth in mind — thinking about how trees will mature, seasonal changes, and future maintenance.

Sustainability & Regulations: They know how to create eco-friendly designs — like rain gardens or native plant landscapes — and ensure the plan meets local zoning laws or permits.

When would a horticulturist be enough?

If you only need plant advice, maintenance tips, or help selecting the right flowers and trees for an existing space — a horticulturist might fit the bill. But they won’t design the space itself or consider the non-plant elements.

The Bottom Line:

• If you want a beautiful, functional, lasting outdoor space — hire a landscape architect.

• If you only need help keeping your plants alive and thriving in an already-designed space — hire a horticulturist.

The difference between an Architect and a Landscape Architect boils down to what they design and where their focus lies. Let’s break it down:

What They Design

• Architect: Designs buildings and structures like houses, offices, malls, schools, or skyscrapers focusing on how people live, work, and move within the built space. Example: Floor plans, facades, interiors, and structural layout.

• Landscape Architect: Designs outdoor spaces parks, gardens, campuses, streetscapes, or even entire urban environments focusing on how people interact with nature and the environment.

Example: Pathways, water features, planting plans, seating areas, eco- friendly landscapes.

Core Focus

• Architect: Focuses on the form, function, and aesthetics of the building itself making sure it stands strong, looks great, and serves its purpose. Keywords: Structure, space planning, walls, roofs, materials.

• Landscape Architect: Focuses on creating harmony between built structures and the environment — blending human needs with nature while considering sustainability, climate, and site conditions. Keywords: Terrain, plants, drainage, outdoor comfort, ecosystem balance.

Education and Skills

• Architect: Studies architecture ( 5 year course), which covers building design, structural systems, materials, and interior layout.

Skills: Structural knowledge, CAD software, design principles, building codes.

• Landscape Architect: Studies landscape architecture ( 5year + 2year course), blending design with ecology, horticulture, hydrology, ecology, environmental planning, and civil engineering.

Skills: Site analysis, grading, planting design, water management, outdoor sustainability, visual aesthetics.

Bottom Line:

• Hire an Architect for the building.

• Hire a Landscape Architect for the outdoor spaces to make them beautiful, functional, and eco-friendly.

Here’s why hiring a landscape architect is a game-changer whether it’s your home, a commercial property, or a public space:

1. They Create More Than Just "Pretty Gardens"

A landscape architect designs functional, beautiful, and sustainable outdoor spaces. It’s not just about planting trees they create an experience. Example: A residential garden that feels like a serene retreat, or a commercial plaza that draws people in with inviting pathways, seating, and greenery.

2. Problem Solvers for Tough Sites

Got a sloping plot, poor drainage, or a hot, barren plot? A landscape architect can turn those into features, not flaws.

Example: Terraced gardens for steep slopes, rain gardens to handle water runoff, or shady groves that cool the area naturally.

3. Sustainability & Environmentally Smart Design

They design with eco-conscious principles using native plants, smart irrigation, and layouts that reduce water, energy, and maintenance costs. Example: A drought-tolerant garden that looks lush year-round without constant watering.

4. Increases Property Value

A well-designed landscape can boost your property’s value by up to 15% and that’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about usability and appeal. Example: A thoughtfully landscaped front garden makes a home more inviting, while a commercial space with attractive outdoor seating draws more customers.

5. Seamless Integration with Architecture

They ensure the outdoor space blends beautifully with the building, enhancing the overall design. Example: A modern home with a sleek garden that mirrors the building’s clean lines, or a rustic villa surrounded by native, naturalistic planting.

6. Long-Term Savings

A landscape architect’s plan ensures low-maintenance greenery, durable materials, and strategic plant placement reducing upkeep costs over time. Example: Proper tree placement can lower your energy bills by providing shade in summer and wind protection in winter.

7. Health, Wellness, and Experience

They design for more than looks creating spaces that promote well-being, encourage outdoor time, and even improve air quality. Example: A workplace with green outdoor spaces improves employee mood and productivity.

Bottom Line:

• Want a space that’s functional, beautiful, and sustainable not just a patch of plants? Hire a landscape architect.

• Need more than a garden like paths, water features, outdoor rooms, or climate-smart planting? Hire a landscape architect.

• Want your outdoors to feel designed (not just decorated)? Hire a landscape architect.

The cost of a landscaping project is determined by its scope, size, and complexity. During the Design Development phase, we provide comprehensive budget estimates that detail construction expenses and offer flexibility for adjustments to align with your requirements.

Key factors influencing the overall cost include:

• Property size Larger areas typically require more materials and labour.

• Material selection Choices such as hardscapes, plant varieties, and lighting impact pricing.

• Permits and regulations Compliance with local codes may introduce additional fees.

• Special features Elements like pools, water features, or custom installations add to the complexity and cost.

Our team collaborates with you throughout the process to ensure the final design reflects your vision while remaining within your budget.

The fees charged by landscape architects vary depending on the project's scale, complexity, location, and the landscape architect's expertise.

Here are the most common pricing structures:

1. Percentage of Project Cost

landscape architects charge a percentage of the total project cost. This approach ensures the fee reflects the project's overall scale and complexity larger, more intricate designs typically result in a higher total fee.

2. Minimum Engagement Fee

For smaller or less complex projects, landscape architects may require a minimum engagement fee of Rs 50,000. This ensures the effort put into design, planning, and oversight remains worthwhile, even if the project itself isn’t large.

3. Per Square Foot Rate

In some cases, landscape architects may charge based on the size of the area being designed. This method is more common for projects where the scale is a primary cost driver.

4. Per Acre Rate

For larger housing apartments, farms, resorts, or expansive landscapes, Landscape architects may charge a per-acre rate. This approach is suited for projects where the design covers vast areas, ensuring the scale is accounted for without the cost becoming excessively high per square foot.

Each project is unique, and the most suitable pricing structure depends on the design’s complexity, the site’s conditions, and the level of detail required. A conversation with landscape architect can help determine the best approach to align with your vision and budget.

Lets us understand with a example of Doctor

A general doctor can diagnose everyday health issues, give basic treatment, and send you on your way. It’s practical and affordable.

But if you have a complex heart condition, you need a cardiologist a specialist with advanced knowledge who runs detailed tests, creates a personalized plan, and monitors your long-term health. Naturally, the cardiologist charges more because their expertise is deeper, the stakes are higher, and the solution is more tailored to your needs.

The same principle applies to architects and landscape architects.

An architect completes a 5-year degree to design buildings static, defined structures that stay unchanged for decades. Once the construction ends, their job is done. Their fee reflects this predictable, one-time process.

A landscape architect, though, is the environmental equivalent of a specialist doctor. They go through 7 years of education 5 years of architecture followed by a 2-year master’s degree in landscape architecture to master the complexities of designing living, evolving ecosystems.

In these outdoor environments, plants grow, soil shifts, water flows, and seasons transform the space. This requires far more than just good aesthetics. They dive into soil science, hydrology, plant ecology, terrain shaping, and sustainable design to ensure the landscape doesn’t just look great today but thrives for years.

Why do they charge more?

Just like a cardiologist’s higher fees cover specialized tests, treatment plans, and follow-ups a landscape architect’s fees cover:

• Advanced technical knowledge — blending engineering, ecology, and design.

• Custom, site-specific planning — because no two landscapes are the same.

• Long-term performance forecasting — ensuring the space matures beautifully over time.

• Environmental and legal expertise — handling drainage, stormwater, and regulations.

In short:

An architect designs a house you live in. A landscape architect designs an environment you live with one that grows, adapts, and stays resilient.

Would you trust a general doctor to perform heart surgery? Probably not. Similarly, trusting an architect to handle a complex landscape could cost more in mistakes and maintenance later.

A landscape architect’s higher fee isn’t just about design it’s about creating a sustainable, enduring, and thriving outdoor space that holds its value for decades.

And that’s an investment worth making.

The cost of landscaping a terrace garden in Odisha varies based on factors such as design complexity, material selection, and labor charges. On average, the rates range from ₹750 to ₹1500 per square foot.

The fees charged by landscape architects vary depending on the project's scale, complexity, location, and the landscape architect's expertise.

Here are the most common pricing structures:

1. Percentage of Project Cost

landscape architects charge a percentage of the total project cost. This approach ensures the fee reflects the project's overall scale and complexity larger, more intricate designs typically result in a higher total fee.

2. Minimum Engagement Fee

For smaller or less complex projects, landscape architects may require a minimum engagement fee of Rs 50,000. This ensures the effort put into design, planning, and oversight remains worthwhile, even if the project itself isn’t large.

3. Per Square Foot Rate

In some cases, landscape architects may charge based on the size of the area being designed. This method is more common for projects where the scale is a primary cost driver.

4. Per Acre Rate

For larger housing apartments, farms, resorts, or expansive landscapes, Landscape architects may charge a per-acre rate. This approach is suited for projects where the design covers vast areas, ensuring the scale is accounted for without the cost becoming excessively high per square foot.

Each project is unique, and the most suitable pricing structure depends on the design’s complexity, the site’s conditions, and the level of detail required. A conversation with landscape architect can help determine the best approach to align with your vision and budget.

Why choose between a Permaculturist and a Landscape Architect when you can have both?

L.Ar Monalisa Panda a trained landscape architect with expertise in both landscape design and permaculture brings the best of both approaches to your project.

From sustainable, food-producing ecosystems to functional, aesthetically pleasing landscapes, Banabhoomi offers it all.

Contact Banabhoomi today to create a space that blends sustainability with design, all under one roof.

Maintaining your new landscape doesn’t have to be overwhelming it’s about setting the right routine.

Here’s a breakdown to keep your outdoor space thriving:

Watering Wisely

• New plants: Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong roots.

• Established plants: Adjust based on weather more during heat waves, less during cooler seasons.

• Lawn: Water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.

Pruning and Trimming

• Regularly trim shrubs, trees, and perennials to promote healthy growth and keep your space looking neat.

• Remove dead or diseased branches promptly to prevent spread.

3. Mulching for Protection

• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

• Refresh mulch annually.

4. Fertilizing Smartly

• Feed your plants based on their type flowering plants need more phosphorus, while lawns thrive on nitrogen-rich fertilizers.

• Organic compost is a great, low-maintenance option for enriching the soil.

5. Weed Control

• Hand-pull weeds regularly, especially after rain when the soil is soft.

• Use ground covers or mulch to reduce weed growth naturally.

6. Pest and Disease Management

• Keep an eye out for discoloured leaves, holes, or unusual spots.

• Encourage natural predators like ladybugs, or use eco-friendly treatments if needed.

7. Seasonal Care

• Spring: Clean up debris, fertilize, and prepare for new growth.

• Summer: Focus on watering and pest control.

• Autumn: Prune, mulch, and plant cool-season flowers or veggies.

• Winter: Protect sensitive plants with covers and cut back perennials.

8. Hardscape Maintenance

• Sweep paths, patios, and decks regularly to prevent dirt build-up.

Check for cracks or loose stones and repair them early to avoid bigger issues

Every project is unique, and estimating the cost accurately takes time and careful planning. We believe in providing reliable, informed guidance — not guesswork. That’s why we don’t offer “ballpark” estimates.

Instead, we’ll visit your property, ask the right questions, take measurements and photos, and develop a concept design paired with a preliminary estimate. This way, you get a clear, realistic understanding of what your landscape will truly require — no surprises, just thoughtful planning.

Think of it like this: an architect is like a general doctor they’re skilled at designing buildings and creating functional spaces, just as a general doctor can diagnose and treat a wide range of health issues.

A landscape architect, on the other hand, is more like a specialist doctor someone who’s undergone additional years of education and training to focus on a specific field. They’re experts in designing outdoor environments, understanding soil, water management, grading, plant systems, and how to create landscapes that are both beautiful and sustainable.

While an architect might be able to suggest where a garden or deck goes much like a general doctor can give basic advice on nutrition or exercise a landscape architect ensures that space works in harmony with the environment, functions properly, and thrives for years to come, just like a specialist ensures you get the best treatment for a specific condition.

For outdoor spaces that are more than just decorative spaces that are resilient, sustainable, and built to last a landscape architect brings the specialized knowledge you need.

It’s tempting to skip straight to the numbers, but without a design, any estimate would be a rough guess and guesses can lead to surprises later.

A landscape isn’t just about plants and pathways. It involves grading, drainage, materials, lighting, and functionality all of which affect cost. A design plan these details out, giving us a clear, realistic understanding of what’s needed.

By starting with a design, we make sure your estimate reflects your vision and your budget no surprises, just a clear plan forward.

Yes if you already have a design, we’re happy to work with it!

We’ll start by reviewing the plan to ensure it’s practical, buildable, and aligned with your site and vision. This includes:

• Site Compatibility: Checking if the design fits your land’s grading, soil, and drainage conditions.

• Material Suitability: Ensuring the suggested materials are durable, maintainable, and within your budget.

• Functionality: Making sure the layout flows well, meets your needs, and works for long-term use.

• Regulations: Verifying that the design complies with local codes and environmental guidelines.

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If the design checks out, we’ll move straight into cost planning and construction. If tweaks are needed whether to improve performance, reduce costs, or enhance longevity we’ll collaborate with you to refine it while staying true to your original vision.

Our goal?

To bring your design to life in the best possible way blending beauty, functionality, and durability.

Just like you pay for materials to build the landscape such as stone, plants, lighting, etc. the design is an essential "material" for the project to progress smoothly. It’s the design plan that guides every decision, ensuring the final result is both functional and beautiful.

Creating that design takes time, expertise, and a dedicated team of professionals. From site analysis to layout planning, plant selection, and technical detailing each step requires thoughtful work to make sure the landscape isn’t just visually appealing but also practical, sustainable, and long-lasting.

The design fee reflects the time, skill, and effort that go into crafting this crucial foundation making sure the build goes as planned, with fewer surprises and better results.