5 Key Elements
of Landscape Planting Design
Matching the right plant to the right Location
At Turpin Landscape Design Build, we believe planting design in West Chester, PA should be more than just placing pretty plants in the ground. It’s about crafting a natural, functional space that works with your property—not against it—and creating a landscape that feels right the moment you step outside.
We’ve developed a collaborative, thoughtful process that guides you from first ideas to finished installation, with plenty of opportunity to explore, adjust, and enjoy the journey. Whether you’re renovating a large portion of your yard or want a complete backyard experience, here are five key elements that shape our planting design work:
At Turpin Landscape Design Build, we believe planting design in West Chester, PA should be more than just placing pretty plants in the ground. It’s about crafting a natural, functional space that works with your property—not against it—and creating a landscape that feels right the moment you step outside.
We’ve developed a collaborative, thoughtful process that guides you from first ideas to finished installation, with plenty of opportunity to explore, adjust, and enjoy the journey. Whether you’re renovating a large portion of your yard or want a complete backyard experience, here are five key elements that shape our planting design work:
Plantscaping
1. Smart Visual Planning with 2D & 3D Design Tools (When It’s the Right Fit)
Most planting-focused projects don’t require detailed 3D renderings—but when your project includes multiple outdoor features or a more complex layout, we use digital design software to bring your ideas to life.
This helps us fine-tune your layout and give you a realistic view of how plants, patios, and pathways will work together. It’s a helpful tool for seeing your vision in full color and making sure we’re aligned before the digging begins.
2. Your Project Starts with a Conversation
Every great landscape starts with listening. During our initial phone call, we’ll talk through what’s working (and what’s not), your goals, and how you hope to use your space.
Whether you’re dreaming of a low-maintenance garden, seasonal color, or a more natural, wildlife-friendly yard, this conversation gives us a clear foundation. We’ll also ask questions about your current conditions—sun, soil, drainage, and more—so we can start to tailor a plan that’s right for your property.
3. A Site Visit That’s Focused on Listening
(Not Just Measuring)
When we walk your property, we’re not just looking—we’re listening. Our onsite survey and site assessment gives us the opportunity to dig into the details that will make your landscape successful. That includes:
- Sun and shade patterns
- Soil health
- How you and your pets use the space
- Slope, drainage, and visual challenges
- Privacy, views, and seasonal interest
- Pollinator-friendly or deer-resistant needs
- Personal color, texture, and maintenance preferences
We often sketch a very high-level concept and talk through it with you—this helps us get an early sense of what you like and sets the stage for an accurate estimate and smooth project flow.
4. Plant Inspiration Walk at Our Private Nursery
This is a favorite part for many of our clients. With access to our private nursery and shop, you’ll walk through real plant materials with your designer to see, touch, and compare the options in person.
We source from top-tier wholesale suppliers and hand-select plants that perform well in West Chester, PA and surrounding areas. Whether you know your favorites or are looking for something new, this walk helps connect the design with the living things that will bring it to life.
5. The Plant-Mobile: Flexible & Creative Plant Placement
Our Plant-Mobile is a custom-built box truck that brings flexibility right to your project site. Packed with a variety of plants—including extra options—it allows our team to adjust the design in real time, placing plants organically to match your space’s flow.
For naturalistic planting styles, especially those using perennials, this step is invaluable. Some clients love being involved; others prefer to leave it to us and be surprised by the results. Either way, this flexible step gives your planting design the natural, lived-in feel that sets our work apart.
Bring Nature Closer With a Design That Lasts
At Turpin Landscape Design Build, we focus on more than just making your yard look good. We design with intention—to bring nature closer, to create a place for you to unwind or entertain, and to build something that lasts.
Whether your focus is a wildlife-friendly planting, a privacy screen with personality, or a complete outdoor renovation, our process ensures you’ll feel supported, heard, and excited about the outcome.
Let’s start with a conversation.
