FAQ

Questions, answered

Plain answers about the package, the design, building it, and where we work. Still unsure? Call (206) 949-3519.

15 questions

The package

What do I get for $750?

The Concept Design Package covers your front or back yard: a site visit or your photos, 2–3 concept renders of your yard, a planting plan, and one revision round. If you build with our licensed partner contractor, the $750 is credited toward installation.

How many revisions do I get?

One revision round is included. Send us all your changes together and we'll update the design. If you'd like more changes after that, we'll quote them before doing any extra work.

What if I want both yards, or I have a large property?

Each yard is its own Concept Design Package, unless your property calls for a custom quote. Larger properties get a custom quote. Tell us about your yard in the form and we'll let you know which applies.

How do I pay?

Payment terms and accepted payment methods are listed in your written quote. Requesting a quote is free.

The design

How does a photo-based design work?

Share a few photos through the quote form if you have them, along with what you'd like to change. Once you book, we send a short shot list and an upload link: photos from each corner of the yard, from the house looking out, close-ups of anything you want to keep, and a one-to-two-minute walkthrough video on your phone. We design from those and the details you share. If we need another angle or a measurement, we'll ask. Photo-based designs are available anywhere in the Bay Area, Silicon Valley, and surrounding areas.

What's a concept render? Is it the same as a construction drawing?

A concept render is a picture of your own yard showing one possible design: the layout, plants, materials, and overall feel. It helps you decide what you want. It isn't a construction drawing and isn't meant to be built from directly. Construction documents and any grading or drainage plans are prepared by licensed professionals.

Can you design a water-wise or native garden?

Yes. Water-wise and California-native planting suit our dry summers, and we choose plants for your sun, space, and water use. If you're thinking about replacing lawn, some local water agencies offer lawn-conversion rebates. Program rules vary, and some require approval before any lawn is removed, so check with your water agency before work starts. We don't process rebate applications or guarantee eligibility.

How long does it take?

It depends on your yard and the current schedule, so we confirm your timeline in writing in your quote, before you commit to anything.

Building it

Is installation included?

No. Ponte Design creates the design. Installation is performed by our licensed partner contractor, under a separate agreement with them.

How does the install credit work?

If you build your design with our licensed partner contractor, your $750 design fee is credited toward the installation. The terms, including how long the credit is available, are set out in your written quote.

Do I have to build with your partner contractor?

No. The planting plan is yours to use for your own home, whether you build with our partner, another licensed contractor, or in stages on your own. The install credit applies only when you build with our licensed partner contractor.

Are you licensed?
Do you handle HOA approval or permits?

We don't pull permits or prepare construction documents; licensed professionals handle those. If your HOA reviews yard changes, your concept renders and planting plan can help you start that conversation. Your HOA may still ask for more detailed plans from a licensed professional.

Where we work

Where do you work?

We're based in Contra Costa County and serve the whole Bay Area, Silicon Valley, and surrounding areas. We'll drive to you for a site visit anywhere in that area, or design from your photos if you'd rather. A $50 travel fee applies only when a visit means crossing a bridge.

Is there a travel fee for a site visit?

Most visits have no travel fee. If reaching your home means crossing a bridge, for example the Peninsula, San Francisco, Marin, or the North Bay, a flat $50 travel fee is added, and it's shown on your written quote before you commit.