Process

Project Phases

At Paul-Lee-Nation, we believe great garden and plant design start with a clear, collaborative process that keeps you in the loop every step of the way. From our first conversation to the final walk-through, we’ve broken your project into six transparent phases—each designed to turn your vision into reality with zero surprises. (Unless they’re good surprises, of course!)

Here’s how we do it:

  • We start by getting to know you—your style, budget and the unique features of your site (soil, drainage, climate and existing plants). During our one-hour meeting, we’ll:

    • Talk through your vision and priorities.

    • Walk the property to note constraints and opportunities.

    • Agree on a project scope and ballpark budget.

    Deliverables:

    After we’ve given careful thought to your unique space and vision, you’ll receive the following online via a secure, password-protected URL:

    1. Vision Board: Detailed write-up of our discussion + mood imagery.

    2. Mood Board: Recommended color palette, textures (plants/hardscape).

    3. Initial Proposal: Tiered options for design and installation, with cost estimates.

  • Once you’ve reviewed your options:

    • Select the proposal that best fits your vision and budget

    • Submit a 50% deposit to lock in your spot and kick off the project

    That’s it—your plant-based project is officially underway!

  • Not every project requires a formal drawing—but when visuals help bring the vision to life, we’ll create a design that aligns everyone involved.

    Here’s what we’ll do:

    • Develop a conceptual site plan showing layout and key features

    • Provide a sketch or rendering, if helpful

    • Collaborate with you through review sessions to refine the design until it feels just right

    Deliverable:

    A finalized design package that clearly communicates the plan.

  • This is where we handle all the behind-the-scenes logistics so installation runs smoothly.

    We’ll:

    • Finalize scopes of work and coordinate schedules with our subcontractors

    • Source and order all materials—soils, pavers, plants, pots, lighting, irrigation, and more

    • Manage any necessary permits or utility mark-outs

    Deliverable:

    A detailed installation schedule and complete material list—so everything’s ready to go.

  • This is when your project vision becomes reality.

    We’ll take care of everything:

    • Site Prep: Clearing, grading, and any necessary utility work

    • Hardscape: Installing walls, walkways, patios, and minor structures

    • Softscape & Irrigation: Planting trees, shrubs, and groundcover, and setting up watering systems

    • Finishing Touches: Lighting, outdoor furniture, and decorative elements

    You:

    Pay the final 50% once the installation is complete and you’re happy with the results.

  • Together, we make sure everything looks and feels just right—and talk next steps for keeping it that way.

    We’ll:

    • Walk the finished space to ensure everything meets your expectations

    • Discuss and, if desired, set up a custom maintenance plan (watering, pruning, pest control, etc.)

    Deliverables:

    A signed completion form and any agreed-upon maintenance service plan.

Why This Works For You

Close-up view of various small houseplants with colorful leaves, including patterned, veined, and variegated foliage, inside a transparent container.

Clarity

You always know what comes next, who’s involved and what you’ll get.

Paul Lee Cannon standing on one leg in a yoga pose on a dirt path with wooden railings, surrounded by green plants, at a foggy outdoor viewpoint.

Flexibility

Tiered proposals and optional design ensure you only pay for what you need.

A weathered stone Buddha statue seated in a meditative pose, partially obscured by green foliage, with moss and fallen leaves on the ground.

Peace of Mind

Milestone payments align with real progress, not arbitrary dates.