Why should I pay for a landscape design?  What is the importance of a professional landscape design?  I want an incredible Arizona backyard, and was wondering about your Phoenix landscape design services….

All very COMMON questions for a landscape and pool company in Phoenix…  Hi, my name is Chris Griffin, and I’m the owner of Unique Landscapes by Griffin – a professional landscape contractor in Phoenix.  We specialize in incredible landscape designs for our Phoenix clients.  Our Phoenix landscape design services include very basic sketches to unbelievable 3D landscape designs. 

What are my qualifications?

Unique Landscapes Project in PhoenixAmazing Landscape & Pool Project by Unique

1.  Phoenix Landscape Architect -  Landscape architects specialize in designing great projects for builders, homeowners, and residences all around the valley. These guys know how it SHOULD be done, and come up with some pretty great projects.  If money is not an object, this is the way to go – let a Phoenix landscape architect assist in your Arizona landscaping project.  CONS -  while landscape architects truly know the business, these guys are ALWAYS looking for the next huge project to boost their business. For the most part, the Phoenix landscape designs that my company bids for clients (that are done by a Phoenix landscape architect), end up being 20 to 50% OVER the desired budget of the client.  Some of these projects never get done, some end up being scaled way back, and many changes are made to reduce cost…. 

2.  Phoenix Landscape Designer -   A professional landscape designer should be all that is needed in ANY project.  Why?  Well, first off, these guys do it all the time – and they generally work for an established landscape company or contractor – or they have their own business in landscape design.  Finding a great landscape designer can be the challenge though…..   Here is my company PLUG…
Unique Landscapes is the Phoenix landscaping contractor, and we are the landscape designer too!  Why is this important?  Well, every project is done with a basic concept, and scope of work in mind.  Also, EVERY project is done with a BUDGET in mind.  As the contractor, we know what things cost, and a professional landscaping company can be your best asset – helping the client unify the landscape design, project wish list, and budget.  CONS – Well, I’m bias, but a guess a con could be not finding a GOOD landscape designer, or one that is just interested in selling you something you don’t need!  Research who you are hiring (like reading this BLOG!)

3.  Small Landscape Company – There are many small companies out there that do basic Arizona landscaping.  In fact, I can refer you to a few.  My brother owns a mesa landscape company – Griffin’s Desertscapes, and he specializes in many basic landscape projects.  The landscape designs are most often sketches, by hand, and very basic – which is not bad for small projects.  CONS – Even on projects $5K and over, i feel it’s necessary to have some sort of professionally illustrated design (just to sign contract, present, and set expectations)

Now – finally, i’ll actually answer the questions that I intro’d with!

Why should I pay for a landscape design?    Landscape designers are just like any business professional.  I have many clients that EXPECT a free landscape design.  I often wonder what kind of response I’d get if I went into a doctors office, art studio, or lawyer – and asked for several hours of free time, work, and input on a issue (and then EXPECTED it for free).  You may say that these guys have a college degree – well, the good landscape designers do too!  In fact, mine is in Civil Engineering…  You will find that most Phoenix landscape designers are just looking to cover their time, and most DON’T get paid if they don’t sell the job.  In fact, most landscape designers will GUARANTEE that you will love the design – or they will re-design it.  With those types of guarantees, we’d love our clients to research & interview first before asking for free services….  for qualified buyers, it’s not uncommon to get some great ideas, sketches or design work – but I’ve yet to meet a professional landscape designer that has actually left their work with the client! 

What is the importance of a professional landscape design?   The landscape design is the foundation to the entire Phoenix landscaping project!  In fact, it’s the plan in which you are expecting results…  Not having a great design is like trying to take a test without studying, or writing an article without research.  Do you build a house without a plan?  No – landscaping can be just as involved, and just as important to have a great design.

I want an incredible Arizona backyard, and was wondering about your Phoenix landscape design services….   Unique is one of the only companies that offers both POOL and LANDSCAPE design services to our clients.  Most projects have swimming pools, and every project needs some sort of Phoenix landscaping.  Why not have it all done together, and all part of a master plan?!  This philosophy is what we have built Unique Landscapes around (along with Unique Custom Pools, LLC.)  Our landscape designers are professional, low-pressure, and truly have the best interest of our clients in mind.  My landscape designers do get paid a commission for sold jobs, but their base salaries are there so that they don’t have to result in being pushy, or selling products to clients that are unnecessary.  I personally look over each project for some of the basic fundamentals of Phoenix landscape design – and I PERSONALLY GUARANTEE THEM TOO!

Thank you for your interest in Unique Landscapes by Griffin

Chris Griffin, Pres.

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The travertine paver fad is in full force, and custom travertine pavers and outdoor travertine products are hotter than ever (not really, they can actually be one of the cooler patios around a pool!)  Unique Landscapes has quickly become one of the industry leaders for travertine pavers in Phoenix, Arizona. – Unique specializes in the custom masonry & stonework that is involved when working with the installation of the natural stone product – such as travertine. 

Peach travertine pavers on a Phoenix patio & outdoor barbecue area in Arizona

Travertine ranges in price as well as colors – commonly finding travertine marble in the light shades of white & cream, golden color, peach & red colors, and darker brown colors (aka “noche” travertine).  Travertine pavers come in tumbled, chiseled, honed, and filled – and there are many different sizes and varieties to choose from.  The chiseled edge pavers, in the smaller sizes, tend to be the best purchase (most economical).  Unique has sizes up to 16″ x 16″ and 16″ x 24″ for some of our custom Phoenix travertine paver installation projects. 

Travertine paver pool patio in Mesa, AZ.

Before buying , make sure you understand the many variables that come with purchasing travertine.  The thickness of the stone is important, some stones come as thin as 1″, and when installing pavers, this just won’t be sufficient! Look for a product that is at least 1 1/4″ or 1 – 1/2″.  The type of travertine should also be considered, since there are two major players of travertine stone – Turkish travertine and mexican travertine.  There are many differences between the two, and price could be a major factor also – make sure you see both products, and make an educated decision.

Travertine Paver project in Phoenix, Arizona

Whether you are looking to purchase travertine pavers in Phoenix , or have a complete patio design by Unique Landscapes – we can help!  Contact us today @ 480.969.1911 for a special price on travertine pavers in Arizona!

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Unique Companies has specialized in complete & custom splash pads for the past 2 years.  We’ve got some pretty incredible Phoenix Splash pads under our belt, and are authorized installers of the popular PebbleFlex decking material – composed of multiple colors of rubber & epoxy resin – making a great non-slip outdoor surface for any project (most importantly our Arizona Splash Pads!)

Check out some of our cool splash pad projects in the Chandler & Phoenix area – the splash pad videos below are of a custom Arizona splash pad project that we have on YouTube.com .  It continues to get incredible reviews from across the nation – Unique has become an industry leader in our innovative and custom backyard waterpark & Arizona Splashpad projects – just check out our work!

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Unique Landscapes has been a long time resident of Mesa, Arizona and continues to serve the community of Fountain Hills, AZ for all of it’s landscaping and swimming pool needs.  Whether you are looking for a Fountain Hills landscape design or swimming pool remodel, Unique Landscapes is extremely experienced in all aspects of pool and landscape construction in the Town of Fountain Hills. 

Fountain Hills, AZ Swimming Pool & Landscape Remodel Project

Unique Companies has done many new swimming pools and spa in Fountain Hills, and is extremely aware of the towns strick criteria for walls, grading and drainage, landscape guidelines, and overall permitting process.  Unique continues to build sustainable Fountain Hills landscape projects after it’s custom swimming pool and spa projects are completed.  The owner of Unique’s degree in Civil Engineering is probably the biggest asset when choosing Unique for your next Fountain Hills swimming pool or landscape project – because of the strict guidelines that the town of Fountain Hills puts on each resident for compliance.

Completed Fountain Hills landscape & pool remodel project - Final Project Picture

Our landscape designers start with a complementary landscape design consultation for our Arizona clients, and then hopefully move on to the 3D landscape designs, Fountain Hills permitting and engineering, and then finally the construction of your new swimming pool, spa, pool remodel or landscaping project.  Many Fountain Hills residents love our ability to coordinate the entire outdoor project, building our custom fireplaces, barbecues, flagstone patios, travertine paver patios, mist systems, waterfalls & ponds, pergolas and ramadas & more!

Fountain Hills landscape design in color & 3D - prior to construction.

Contact Unique today for you expert in Fountain Hills Arizona pool & landscape companies!

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GO GREEN!  It’s not just a fad now – it’s a lifestyle, and one that we’ve taken seriously in the Phoenix swimming pool & spa business.

There are many ways that Unique is building environmentally friendly pools – but the biggest contribution to the GREEN industry is the our Pentair pumps and swimming pool equipment.  Unique proudly installs the Pentair Intelliflo Variable speed pump on all of our premium GREEN swimming pool & spa projects.  This pump is definitely the best choice for a pool & spa pump in Phoenix, as it is fully programmable for up to 4 different speeds.  It’s Italian made motor is extremely energy efficient (in fact, 30% more efficient that it’s competitors!).  The best thing about this Phoenix Swimming pool pump is it’s ability to be programmed to provide the exact amount of water needed for multiple functions of a swimming pool.

For example, this pump can be used for an infloor cleaning system booster pump, and it’s set at 3000 RPM, which is approximately a 2 HP pump.  The same pump can be dialed down to a .5 HP pump to circulate & filter the water of the swimming pool.  With some simple computer automation, the same pump can be used as a booster pump for the spa jets (imagine a low speed jet and a high speed jet – all from the same pump, and a push of a button!)  Another common use is the ability to control the flow of a waterfall or Phoenix pool waterfeature.  Our Phoenix Intelliflo Pentair pump can be programmed for 2 speeds (actually more!) -  giving you a low speed waterfall for a quite evening outside, or you can ramp it up for FULL THROTTLE for a backyard party!

Contact us today for a free Phoenix swimming pool & spa evaluation – and make energy conservation a top priority in your next Arizona Swimming pool or Phoenix pool remodel!

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Unique Landscapes is your best bet for Phoenix landscape design, because of one simple fact that we can design the entire backyard, pool, patio and Phoenix swimming pool & landscape design.

AutoCAD Phoenix landscape design3D Landscape & Pool Design for a Phoenix Project

Contact Unique Landscapes for a free design consultation to see how we can add “value” to your next project. Let us know how to earn your business!

Chris Griffin, Pres.
Unique Landscapes & Unique Custom Pools, LLC

3D Landscape & Pool Design in Phoenix, AZ.

Landscape Lighting Design in 3D Landscape Design

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Swimming pool & landscape project in Mesa, Arizona

Unique Landscapes has been a long time resident of Mesa, Arizona – and offers local landscape services to all residents of Mesa. Mesa is one of the largest cities in Arizona, and Unique Landscapes and Unique Custom Pools takes residence for it’s landscape & pool construction company , building sustainable landscapes, landscape designs and swimming pools and spas for it’s Clients.

Our Mesa Landscaping company is one of the largest and best in Mesa, AZ – and really offers valleywide services to all of Metro Phoenix, and surrounding areas. “We love to call Mesa home – it’s a great place to own and operate a landscape and pool company!” claims owner/President – Chris Griffin. Mr. Griffin is key to Unique Companies success in the landscape and swimming pool business – while his civil engineering degree helps keep Unique on track for structural engineering, drainage issues, and complicated landscape projects in Mesa (and all of Phoenix).

While Mesa Arizona is a great place to live – Unique is making it even better with creative landscape designs, custom fireplace, patios and barbeques. Unique is one of the best Arizona Landscapers and Mesa Landscapers around. It’s creative website, innovative design ideas, and attention to detail makes Unique the perfect fit for Mesa, Fountain Hills landscaping, and surrounding areas….

Custom Mesa Outdoor Kitchen & Barbeque Island Grill in Arizona

Take a Vacation in your own backyard! Contact Unique today for a complementary design consultation!

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A great Arizona Landscape Design is the single best investment on a sizeable project when considering a pool, patio, landscaping and entertainment features – such as a barbeque, fireplace, pergola or waterfeature. A good outdoor/landscape designer will take all aspects of what the client is trying to achieve, and encorporate that into a creative, effective, and useable design.

By taking into account the way our clients will use their outdoor space, Unique Landscapes excels in developing

An example of how our landscape designers took advantage of views, placement & materials in this Chandler, AZ Project.

 sustainable outdoor environments with creativity and pizzazz! Combined with artistic features, current technology, the latest trends, and a workable budget – Landscape and Pool Design is the single largest “step” in an outdoor project – meanwhile requiring the smallest monetary investment (A great landscape & pool plan can start with as little as a $500 investment – while more detailed plans can require closer to $1500 – a small price to pay to have something professionally put into a presentation for customer approval and precise construction)

Why is Unique different? Most landscape companies are not very good at landscape design – and don’t understand the fundamentals of great architecture, layout, and quality. However, Phoenix contains some really creative and bright landscape designers that have tremendous plant, tree, hardscape & layout qualities. The problem? Most landscapes involve a swimming pool, spa or outdoor structure – and a good landscape designer is usually very inexperienced in these features (and most have no business designing them). On the flip side – using a master pool designer to recommend landscaping, plants, trees, fireplaces, masonry & entertainment areas is like having a SUSHI chef try to slow cook Texas Barbeque (it just doesn’t work!) The solution – Unique Companies offers Phoenix, Scottsdale and surrounding areas a COMPLETE landscape & pool design portfolio that encompasses the best of both projects. Unique designers are highly qualified and experienced in all aspects of outdoor construction – including swimming pools, spas, fireplaces, patios, masonry, Arizona landscaping, waterfeatures and more! We have designers with different levels of experience too – and for the best overall outcome, the most challenging projects require the undivided attention of our owner, Chris Griffin (civil engineer AND landscape/pool designer).

An example of a Phoenix Landscape & Pool Design in 3D - Seeing a project before you buy makes for setting great expectations!

Unique Landscapes and Unique Custom Pools is the perfect fit for most clients, since nearly every project in Arizona contains a swimming pool and landscaping. From design – we head directly into the landscape & pool construction of the project, and get the job done in 1/2 the time that it takes when working with 2 seperate companies. Find out more how Unique can assist in all aspect of pool remodel design ideas, new pool design, swimming pool design, landscape and pool design, and more!

Contact us today! UNIQUE COMPANIES
Unique Landscape By Griffin
Unique Custom Pools
480.969.1911

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Phoenix’s TOP Pool and Landscape company – serving all of the valley!

Unique Landscapes offers complete landscape design and pool design services all over the Phoenix area. Our swimming pools are commonly found in Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, and Ahwatukee Foothills, and as far north as Anthem, Carefree and Cave Creek. Swimming Pools and Landscapes are common in Mesa, Chandler and Gilbert – so, Unique Companies offers services to accommodate our new clients in all cities – Valleywide Arizona. Whether you are looking for a pool or spa in Scottsdale or Paradise Valley – Unique can help.

Our Mesa based company is centrally located, and our landscape and pool designers are located throughout Ahwatukee / Foothills, Phoenix, Glendale, East Valley (Chandler, Gilbert , Mesa, and Gold Canyon) – and landscape design appointments are just a day away if located in North Scottsdale, Cave Creek or Anthem! We have several local references and current landscape and pool/spa projects for our clients to view (no matter what Arizona city you live in!).

Unique’s new customers choose our landscape and pool design company because we are one of the only companies that specializes in all aspects of outdoor and backyard construction – from swimming pool to landscaping – gaslines to fireplace – patios to putting greens! YOU NAME IT – we have built it! No wonder why Unique has been ranked one of the TOP 10 Landscape & Pool Companies in Arizona for 3 years straight! To top that, Unique is now one of the HOME HUNTER’s featured pool and landscape companies – which our customers can see every Sunday Morning @ 9:00AM – Our owner Chris Griffin talks about some of his engineering background, years of construction experience, and reasons why to choose Unique Landscapes and Unique Custom Pools as your Phoenix Landscape and Pool Designer / Builder!

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Are you looking to remodel your existing swimming pool, or looking into a backyard project that has an old pool that you just don’t use. We can help! Unique Landscapes is one of the only Phoenix landscape and pool companies that specialized in TOTAL backyard landscape and swimming pool remodel projects, and we can handle all aspects of a standard pool remodel.

Waterline Tile – our clients sieze the opportunity to get an updated Phoenix waterline tile of their choice to enhance the overall look of the pool. It’s a great time to update this tile.

Phoenix Pool Remodel - Unique has added a baja step & waterfall wall.

Baja Step or Depth Conversion – when the plaster is out, it’s the ideal time to turn a diving pool into a play pool, add a step or bench, add a play step for your kids, or more. This is a relatively routine process that can happen efficietly during our Phoenix pool remodel process.

Add a WATERFALL or SPA - each of these features can be a key factor to the overall look and function of your swimming pool. During a standard Arizona pool remodel, it’s a great time to add a rock waterfall or custom waterfeature. Don’t be afraid to find out what it takes to add a spa too – it’s very common – and we do it all the time!

Pool Remodel 2006 - Water & Fire collide!

Upgrade Equipment / Controls – Swimming pool remodels in Phoenix are the perfect time to update your swimming pool and spa to the 21st Century. In today’s pool industry, there are some really creative products that make having a pool a breeze! From systems that turn on your spa for you (turning the valves, and turning on the heater) with a touch of a button (from your living room!) – to infloor cleaning systems, salt water chlorination, and COLOR pool lights! Find out which of these systems can be a fit for your Phoenix pool remodel project.

GO GREEN! - Unique Landscapes & Unique Custom Pools is proud to offer Phoenix our experience and dedication to the enviroment. On our new pool construction, we offer several products that are deemed ECO – Friendly pool products, and range from Solar Pool Heating to Energy Efficient Pumps! Our newest addition is the Intelliflo Variable Speed pump that actually circulates and filters your pool at the cost of running a 60 Watt light bulb! Now that’s GREEN! Find out more how these products can be incorporated into your Phoenix Swimming Pool Remodel.

Patios, Landscaping & MORE! – Our best asset to our clients is our ability to KNOW what to do when it comes to the areas OUTSIDE your swimming pool and spa. Our crews work on patios, pavers, travertine and flagstone on a daily basis. We plant trees and palms, build barbeques, fireplaces, run gaslines / electrical, mist systems – EVERYTHING you need to complement your Arizona Pool Remodel Project. We are a pool and landscape company that can do it all.

Contact us today to see how Unique can help you on your next swimming pool remodel project!

Chris Griffin, Pres.
Unique Landscapes & Unique Custom Pools
chris@unique-landscapes.com
Pool & Landscape Expert

http://www.unique-landscapes.com

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