Landscape Design Services in Lakewood, CO
Landscape Design in Lakewood
Lakewood's landscape design challenges are defined by its proximity to the foothills and varied topography. Properties near Green Mountain and the Dakota Hogback sit on steep slopes that demand retaining walls, terraced planting beds, and creative grading solutions. The Bear Creek corridor introduces flood risk and riparian considerations for nearby properties. Lakewood's older neighborhoods (like Eiber and Morse Park) feature mature landscapes with aging trees and outdated irrigation, while newer areas near Union Boulevard see more contemporary design needs. Deer pressure from the foothills is a persistent issue that influences every plant choice. Our team designs landscapes that work with Lakewood's slopes, respect its natural surroundings, and incorporate deer-resistant plantings that still deliver year-round color and texture.
Local Challenges We Address
- Steep slopes near Green Mountain and the foothills cause erosion, runoff, and soil instability that require engineered retaining solutions.
- Deer from the foothills browse through Lakewood neighborhoods regularly, destroying ornamental plantings and vegetable gardens that lack protection.
- Properties near Bear Creek face flood zone restrictions and stormwater management requirements that constrain landscape layout options.
- Rocky, shallow soil on the west side of Lakewood makes excavation difficult and limits the depth available for root establishment.
Local Tip: Install deer-resistant plants in fall rather than spring. Deer browse pressure is lower in autumn, giving new plantings several months to establish before the heavy browsing season returns in late winter and early spring.
What's Included
- 3D design renderings so you see the result before we start
- Native and drought-tolerant plant selection
- Grading and drainage planning for Colorado clay soils
- Hardscape integration (patios, walkways, walls)
- Irrigation system design included with every plan
- Phased installation options to fit your budget
Quick Facts
- Price Range
- Lakewood landscape design ranges from $4,000 for standard lots to $15,000+ for hillside properties requiring retaining walls, grading plans, and geotechnical assessments.
- Service Area
- Lakewood, CO
- Neighborhoods
- Green Mountain, Belmar, Bear Creek
"Our Green Mountain property had terrible drainage and a slope that was eroding badly. Summit built a beautiful retaining wall system and regraded the entire yard. Two years later, everything is holding perfectly."
David L.
Green Mountain, Lakewood
Landscape Design in Lakewood FAQs
Lakewood landscape design typically runs $4,000 to $13,000 depending on terrain complexity. Properties on slopes near Green Mountain or the hogback often require $8,000 to $15,000 because retaining wall engineering and grading plans add to the scope. Flatter lots in central Lakewood neighborhoods generally fall between $3,500 and $7,000. We provide a detailed cost breakdown during the initial consultation so there are no surprises as the project progresses.
Most Lakewood design projects take 3 to 7 weeks from start to finished plans. Slope-related projects often require a geotechnical assessment, adding 1 to 2 weeks. If your property borders Bear Creek or falls within a FEMA flood zone, we may need to coordinate with Jefferson County for drainage permits, which can extend the timeline. For straightforward flat-lot designs, expect closer to 3 to 4 weeks.
Our Lakewood designs use a layered approach to deer resistance. We select plants from CSU Extension's proven deer-resistant list, including lavender, Russian sage, yarrow, and ornamental grasses that deer consistently avoid. Strategic fencing and netting protect high-value planting areas during establishment. We also use aromatic herbs and textured plants as natural deterrents along property borders. No landscape is completely deer-proof, but our designs dramatically reduce browse damage while maintaining visual appeal.
Lakewood and Jefferson County require permits for retaining walls exceeding four feet in height, and any grading that changes drainage patterns on slopes may need city review. Properties in the Bear Creek floodplain must comply with additional stormwater regulations. If your project includes a driveway extension or patio that increases impervious surface area, a grading permit may be necessary. We coordinate all permit requirements during the design phase to keep your project on schedule.
Landscape Design in Nearby Areas
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