Understanding landscape design costs is essential for planning your garden project effectively. This comprehensive guide breaks down what you can expect to pay for professional landscape design services in Melbourne in 2026.
The Quick Answer
For most Melbourne residential properties, you can expect to pay:
- Initial consultation: $350-$500
- Concept design: $2,000-$5,000
- Full landscape design: $5,000-$15,000
- Master planning (larger properties): $8,000-$25,000+
These figures represent the design work only – they don’t include the cost of actually building your garden, which is a separate budget consideration.
What Affects Landscape Design Costs?
Property Size and Complexity
The size of your property is the most significant factor in design costs. A compact courtyard garden requires less design time than a sprawling rural property. However, small spaces can be just as complex as large ones – a 50sqm courtyard with level changes, water features and built-in seating might require more design detail than a simple large lawn area.
Site Challenges
Certain site conditions increase design complexity and therefore cost:
- Steep slopes require terracing, retaining wall design and drainage solutions
- Poor drainage needs integrated stormwater management
- Mature trees require careful design around existing canopies and root zones
- Heritage overlays may require additional documentation and approvals
- Bushfire zones need compliant landscaping design
Level of Documentation
More detailed documentation costs more but provides better outcomes:
- Concept plans show the overall design intent and layout
- Detailed designs include specifications, materials and plant schedules
- Construction documentation provides everything a landscaper needs to quote and build accurately
Breaking Down Design Services
Initial Consultation ($350-$500)
Most landscape designers offer an initial on-site consultation where they:
- Visit your property and assess conditions
- Discuss your needs, preferences and budget
- Provide initial recommendations
- Explain the design process and costs
This consultation often includes a follow-up written summary. It’s a valuable first step that helps you decide if you want to proceed with a full design.
Concept Design ($2,000-$5,000)
A concept design establishes the overall vision for your garden:
- Site analysis and assessment
- Design concept and layout
- Key spatial arrangements
- General plant character and style
- Preliminary cost indication
This is often sufficient for straightforward projects where you’re working with a trusted landscaper who can interpret the design into construction.
Detailed Design ($5,000-$12,000)
A detailed design includes everything in the concept plus:
- Detailed planting plans with species selection
- Material specifications
- Hardscape dimensions and details
- Irrigation and lighting layouts
- Accurate quantity calculations
This level of documentation allows multiple landscapers to quote accurately on the same scope of work.
Construction Documentation ($8,000-$20,000+)
For complex projects, full construction documentation includes:
- Engineering for retaining walls and structures
- Detailed construction drawings
- Cross-sections and elevations
- Specifications and schedules
- Contract administration services
This is typically required for high-end projects, complex sites, or when building permits are needed.
What You Get for Your Investment
Design Saves Money
While design represents an upfront cost, it typically saves money overall by:
- Avoiding expensive mistakes during construction
- Enabling accurate quotes from landscapers
- Preventing costly changes mid-project
- Ensuring materials and plants are appropriate for your conditions
- Creating an efficient construction sequence
A well-designed garden also adds more value to your property than ad-hoc landscaping.
Design Takes Time
Professional landscape design isn’t instant. Expect:
- Concept design: 2-4 weeks
- Detailed design: 4-8 weeks
- Construction documentation: 6-12 weeks
This timeline allows for proper site analysis, creative exploration, client feedback and careful documentation.
Questions to Ask Your Designer
Before engaging a landscape designer, ask:
- What’s included in your design fee?
- How many revision rounds are included?
- What level of documentation will I receive?
- Can you provide a rough construction budget estimate?
- Do you have relationships with quality landscapers?
Making the Most of Your Design Budget
Start with a Consultation
An initial consultation is a low-risk way to get professional advice and understand what’s possible. Many consultations provide enough guidance for simple projects.
Match Documentation to Complexity
Not every project needs full construction documentation. A skilled landscaper can work from a good concept plan for straightforward projects. Save detailed documentation for complex sites or when you need competitive quotes.
Plan for Phased Implementation
If budget is tight, design the whole garden but plan construction in stages. This ensures a cohesive final result while spreading costs over time.
Ready to Get Started?
Understanding design costs helps you budget effectively and choose the right level of service for your project. Whether you need a simple consultation or comprehensive documentation, professional design creates better gardens and protects your overall investment.
Contact us for a consultation to discuss your project and receive a specific quote for your property.
