How do you present planting design to clients?

1 Know your audience

Before you start creating your presentation, you need to understand who your clients are, what their expectations and preferences are, and what level of detail they need. For example, some clients may be more interested in the overall visual impact and mood of the planting design, while others may want to know the specific plant names, sizes, and maintenance requirements. Some clients may have a strong sense of their own style and taste, while others may need more guidance and inspiration from you. Knowing your audience will help you tailor your presentation to their needs and interests, and avoid unnecessary or confusing information.

2 Use visuals and samples

One of the best ways to present your planting design is to use visuals and samples that illustrate your concept and design intent. Visuals can include sketches, drawings, renderings, photos, diagrams, or models that show the layout, scale, color, texture, and form of the planting design. Samples can include plant specimens, cuttings, pots, or swatches that demonstrate the actual appearance and quality of the plants. Visuals and samples can help your clients visualize the final outcome, appreciate the diversity and beauty of the plants, and understand the spatial and environmental relationships among them.

3 Explain your choices

When presenting your planting design, it is essential to explain your choices and decisions to your clients. You need to demonstrate how your planting design meets their goals, responds to site conditions, and reflects design principles and best practices. Various methods can be used to explain your choices, such as narrating the story or theme of your planting design, highlighting the benefits and functions, comparing and contrasting with other alternatives, and providing evidence of successful projects with similar characteristics or challenges. By doing so, you can show your clients that you have chosen the best option for the site and them.

4 Address potential issues

When presenting your planting design, you must address any potential issues or concerns that your clients may have and provide solutions or recommendations. Budget and cost is a common issue that must be addressed, as you must show your clients how your design fits within their budget and provides value for money. You can suggest ways to reduce or optimize the cost, such as using native or low-maintenance plants, selecting plants that are available and affordable in the local market, or phasing the planting installation over time. Maintenance and care is another important factor to consider, as you need to demonstrate how your design can be maintained and cared for easily and effectively. You can also offer tips and advice on how to water, prune, fertilize, and protect the plants from pests and diseases, or refer them to reliable and qualified contractors or professionals who can provide these services. Additionally, you need to illustrate how your planting design supports sustainability and resilience of the site and environment. You can explain how your design adapts to climate change, reduces the carbon footprint, enhances biodiversity, or improves soil and water quality.

5 Invite feedback and questions

The final step of presenting your planting design is to invite feedback and questions from your clients, and respond to them respectfully and confidently. This will help you gauge their satisfaction, understanding, and enthusiasm for your planting design, as well as identify any gaps or areas for improvement. In doing so, you can clarify any doubts or misconceptions they may have about your planting design, and emphasize the strengths and advantages of it. Additionally, you can address any criticisms or objections they may have, and express your gratitude for their time and attention. Ultimately, this will help you receive approval or endorsement of your planting design.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?