Question 1

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve residential clients throughout Southern California, with the majority of our projects located in Los Angeles, Orange County, the Inland Empire, and the San Gabriel Valley. We have also taken on select projects in San Diego County and the Coachella Valley. If your property falls outside these areas, reach out and we will let you know if we can accommodate your project.

Question 2

How much does landscape design cost?

Accepted Answer

Design fees depend on the size and complexity of the project. For most residential properties, our design fees range from approximately $8,000 to $25,000 and cover all phases from consultation through construction documentation. Construction costs are separate and vary widely based on materials, scope, and site conditions. We discuss budget openly during our first meeting so the design we create is grounded in a realistic investment range from the start.

Question 3

How long does a typical project take from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

The design phase typically takes 6 to 12 weeks from consultation to a complete construction document set. Construction timelines depend on the scope of work and typically range from 4 to 16 weeks for most residential projects. Larger estate-scale projects with pools, structures, and extensive grading may take 6 months or more to build. We provide a project-specific timeline estimate early in the process.

Question 4

Do you offer free consultations?

Accepted Answer

Our initial phone or video call to discuss your project goals and determine whether we are a good fit is complimentary. The formal on-site consultation, which includes a detailed property evaluation, site analysis, and design brief development, is a paid service. This ensures you receive thorough, professional guidance from the first visit rather than a casual walkthrough.

Question 5

What size projects do you take on?

Accepted Answer

We work on projects ranging from single-area renovations such as a backyard or front yard redesign to full-property estate transformations. There is no minimum lot size, but our process is best suited for clients who value design-driven outcomes and are prepared to invest in a thoughtful, comprehensive approach rather than a quick cosmetic refresh.

Question 6

Can I hire you for design only, without construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Since we are a design practice and do not self-perform construction, many of our clients engage us for design and documentation only. You receive a complete set of construction drawings and specifications that any licensed contractor can build from. We can also recommend contractors we trust or help you evaluate bids if you would like guidance during the contractor selection process.

Question 7

What happens during an on-site consultation?

Accepted Answer

During the on-site consultation, we walk the entire property together to evaluate existing conditions including sun exposure, drainage, soil, existing vegetation, and the relationship between your home and outdoor spaces. We discuss how you use your outdoor areas, your aesthetic preferences, lifestyle needs, and budget expectations. This visit typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes and results in a written design brief that guides the project.

Question 8

Do you provide 3D renderings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. High-fidelity 3D renderings are a standard part of our design process. We create realistic visualizations from multiple viewpoints so you can experience the space before anything is built. These renderings show proposed materials, plantings, lighting, and furnishings in context, allowing you to make confident decisions and request adjustments before construction begins.

Question 9

How many design revisions are included?

Accepted Answer

Our standard design fee includes two rounds of revisions during the conceptual design phase and one round during the construction documentation phase. Most clients find this sufficient since we invest significant time upfront understanding your vision. Additional revision rounds beyond what is included can be accommodated at an hourly rate, which we discuss transparently before any extra work begins.

Question 10

What file formats do you deliver?

Accepted Answer

Construction documents are delivered as high-resolution PDFs formatted for standard architectural print sizes. 3D renderings are provided as high-resolution JPEG or PNG files suitable for screen viewing and printing. If your contractor requires CAD files in DWG format, we can provide those as well. All deliverables are organized in a shared digital folder for easy access throughout the project.

Question 11

Can you work with my existing architect or contractor?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We frequently collaborate with architects, general contractors, pool builders, and other specialists on projects. Clear communication between disciplines leads to better outcomes, and we are experienced at coordinating with other professionals. If you are building a new home or doing a major renovation, early coordination between the architect and our team ensures the landscape design integrates seamlessly with the architectural vision.

Question 12

Do you perform construction yourselves?

Accepted Answer

No. Tong Design Associates is a design practice. We do not self-perform construction. This separation allows us to serve as an independent advocate for quality on your behalf. We focus entirely on design excellence and construction oversight, while licensed contractors and construction partners handle the physical build. This model eliminates conflicts of interest that can arise when the same firm designs and builds.

Question 13

How do you select and manage contractors?

Accepted Answer

We maintain relationships with a network of licensed, insured contractors whose work quality we have verified over multiple projects. When your project is ready for construction, we can recommend contractors suited to your scope and budget, or work with a contractor you have already selected. During construction, we conduct regular site visits, review material deliveries, and serve as the point of reference for any design-related questions.

Question 14

What types of materials do you typically specify?

Accepted Answer

We specify a range of materials suited to Southern California's climate and your project's aesthetic. Common selections include natural stone, porcelain pavers, decomposed granite, specialty concrete finishes, hardwood and composite decking, and locally sourced boulders. For planting, we favor climate-adapted species including California natives, Mediterranean varieties, and selected tropicals. Every material choice balances beauty, longevity, and maintenance requirements.

Question 15

Do you oversee the construction process?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer construction oversight as part of our design-build coordination services. This includes scheduled site visits at key milestones, review of material installations against the approved specifications, and on-site guidance when field conditions require design adjustments. Our goal is to ensure the finished landscape matches the approved design as closely as possible, preventing unauthorized substitutions or deviations.

Question 16

Do you handle HOA applications?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly prepare HOA architectural review submissions for communities throughout Southern California. This includes scaled site plans, material specification sheets, plant lists, color renderings, and any supplemental documentation required by your HOA's architectural committee. We are familiar with the requirements of many local HOAs and can tailor our submissions to increase the likelihood of smooth approval.

Question 17

Can you prepare city permit drawings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our construction documents are prepared to meet the submission requirements for most Southern California municipalities. This includes dimensioned site plans, grading plans, drainage calculations, and planting plans with irrigation details. For projects requiring structural engineering, such as retaining walls or shade structures, we coordinate with licensed engineers to include the necessary stamped drawings in the permit package.

Question 18

Are your designs compliant with local water ordinances?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All of our designs comply with California's Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) and any additional local water regulations. We calculate water budgets, specify high-efficiency irrigation systems with smart controllers, and select plant material that thrives with minimal supplemental watering once established. Sustainable water management is a core part of our design approach, not an afterthought.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Design Process

Construction & Materials

HOA & Permits

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