Planning a Whole-Yard Landscape Renovation
Renovating an entire yard is exciting — and a big undertaking. A whole-yard redesign is your chance to fix everything that doesn't work and build the landscape you really want. The key to success is planning before you dig. Here's how to approach a complete landscape renovation.
Start with how you'll use the space
Before choosing a single plant, define your goals. Do you want to entertain, garden, give kids room to play, cut water use, or boost resale value? List must-haves and nice-to-haves. Every design decision flows from how you intend to live in the yard.
Assess the whole site
Take stock of what you have: sun and shade, drainage and grading, soil, existing trees worth keeping, and problem areas. A whole-yard renovation is the ideal time to solve drainage and irrigation issues once, before new plantings and hardscape go in.
Create a master plan
Even if you build in stages, design the whole yard at once so everything works together. A master plan locates patios, paths, planting zones, irrigation, and lighting cohesively. This prevents the disjointed look of piecemeal projects and avoids tearing out work later.
Phase the work
- Phase 1: grading, drainage, and irrigation — the infrastructure.
- Phase 2: hardscape — patios, walls, paths.
- Phase 3: planting, mulch, and lighting.
Phasing spreads cost over time while following a single vision.
Work with a pro on big projects
A complete renovation involves many moving parts. Our design-build team can plan and execute the whole transformation cohesively.
Frequently asked questions
Should I redesign the whole yard or do one area at a time?
Design the whole yard first, then build in phases. That way each stage fits a unified plan and you never undo earlier work.
What should come first in a renovation?
Drainage, grading, and irrigation — the infrastructure — before hardscape and planting.
Arbol Roble has cared for Inland Empire landscapes since 1997, serving Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Fontana, Eastvale, Corona and Riverside. Request a free quote or browse our residential and commercial services.
About the Author
The Arbol Roble team are licensed landscaping and irrigation professionals (CSLB License #1077455) serving Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Fontana, Eastvale, Corona, Riverside, and the greater Inland Empire.