Creating a Unique and Ideal Environment for Your Home: An Interview with Laird Landscaping, Inc.

Please describe a little bit about your company and the services you offer.

We are a full service landscape design/build company offering a range of services for beautifying the exterior environment of your home.

What is your position at Laird Landscaping?

I am one of several designers within the company. My primary role is to meet with new clients and walk them through the processes necessary to make their dreams reality. We start with the vision and put that into a tangible format ? like a site plan. From this illustration we can evaluate how everything relates and mingles together. We then determine the steps necessary to bring this plan into reality based on budgets and needs. From there we walk with the client through the construction process making this as enjoyable as possible watching the garden transition into the vision.

Do homes in Houston, Texas require a certain style of landscaping?

Not really. Our winters are usually mild and we have generous amounts of annual rainfall. Therefore we are able to dabble with traditional southern landscapes to lush tropical gardens. And with raised bed and good drainage we can also go deep into the southwest or cross over into the Mediterranean. And of course there are the native Texas plants that are becoming more and more popular. So for the most part, your idea of paradise can be installed here.

What must a landscape company posses in order to receive as many awards and honors as your establishment?

While receiving the accolades of others is nice our main focus is on our clients and their desires. They are the true judges on whether a project was worth their investment. It is important to learn who the client is and design with them in mind. Know what their needs are now and how they may change in the future. Then combine the existing element with unique forms, sprinkle in some water, light, shade & sound and finally a good dose fun and you have a space you want to be in. That is an award winning landscape ? even if it is only seen and enjoyed by your family and friends.

What is one of the secrets of creating a beautiful space that is still low maintenance?

Like I mentioned earlier, you must know your client. What one person considers low maintenance is probably different from someone else. But never is it "no" maintenance. Another secrete is to never forget that plants are living organisms. Unlike a piece of furniture, a plant will continue to grow, can get sick, and even dislike a spot that it is in. So, plant with maturity in mind and how the space can change over time.

You seem to offer many different services to your customers. Would you pick any specific ones out as your specialties?

We specialize in creating environments; therefore, the services vary from project to project. We do many projects that are for curb appeal. But today more of our clients want to be able to experience their landscapes, not just look at them. With the shorter days, lighting is becoming more important. In the summer months it is all about water and shade. And we are always cooking all year long.

What are some of the most popular services you offer? Why do you think this is?

Our most frequent request is to make the patio bigger and/or a shade structure. This has to do with people wanting to be outside more. But a very close second is solving a drainage problem. As I stated earlier, we generally have considerable amount of rain annually. It is hard to enjoy the garden if it is under water; the plants will suffer; and an otherwise beautiful space looks worn out and tired. What is worse is if water is coming into the house. Some of our most beautiful gardens have started out as drainage problems.

What is the best way for people to get in contact with you?

Simply call the office and leave a message works best. The number is 281-578-2795 and one of our designers will contact you set up an appointment. You can also visit our web site at www.lairdlandscaping.com. We have a Face Book page that you can check out as well.