Big Win for formecology at the NARI CotY Awards Event!
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What Drives the Cost of a Landscape Project? No two landscape projects are the same, which is why pricing can vary so much from one property to another. Understanding what affects cost helps homeowners make better decisions and prioritize where to invest. 1. Site Conditions Your existing property plays a big role in cost. Slopes, drainage issues, heavy soils, limited access for equipment, or grading needs can all add labor and time. 2. Design Complexity (Design + Build Integration) A simple patio and planting plan will cost far less than a multi-level outdoor living space with built-in lighting, seating walls, water features, and custom details. In a design/build approach, complexity goes beyond the layout—it also includes how each part is built, scheduled, and put together on-site. Projects with multiple materials, level changes, and built features require more coordination between planning and installation, as well as more skilled work to bring everything together. 3. Materials Selected Materials do affect cost—natural stone, premium pavers, hardwoods, and custom features are typically more expensive than basic options. However, materials are only one part of the total picture. Why “Just Swapping Materials” Isn’t Always Simple One common misunderstanding is the idea that you can easily lower cost by swapping materials. While that sounds simple, labor, jobsite logistics, and installation challenges often have a bigger impact on price than materials alone. For example, something as "simple as" replacing mulch with cobblestone may still involve: Prep work and grading Removal and disposal of existing materials Tight access that requires hand work Multiple crew members over several days Equipment limits or hauling materials by wheelbarrow In many cases, the time and skilled work needed stay very similar, even if the material changes. 4. Project Size Larger projects naturally require more materials, labor, and time, which increases overall cost. 5. Custom Features Custom-built elements like outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, pergolas, or built-in seating require more planning and skilled installation, which adds to the investment. 6. Access and Logistics Not all job sites are easy to work on. Limited access may require smaller equipment, extra labor, or moving materials by hand, all of which affect time and cost. Why Process Matters as Much as Materials At formecology LLC, we use a combined design and build process. This means we think through how everything will be built, scheduled, and installed—not just how it looks on paper. This includes: Crew size and coordination Equipment access and site logistics Drainage and structural work Order of installation These details aren’t always visible, but they play a major role in both cost and long-term success. Not All Landscape Projects Are the Same Some companies focus on basic installation or simple upgrades, while others specialize in more detailed, custom outdoor spaces built through a full design/build process. At formecology LLC, our focus is on well-planned, well-built outdoor environments that feel like a natural extension of your home. That level of planning and craftsmanship takes more investment—but it also leads to a smoother process and better long-term results. __________________________________________________________________________________________ A well-planned design/build process helps avoid surprises, reduces costly changes, and ensures your investment is used wisely. It’s not just about building a beautiful space—it’s about building it the right way from the start. If you’re considering a project, we’re happy to talk through what’s possible for your space.
How Much Should You Budget for a Landscape Project? One of the first questions homeowners ask when considering a landscape project is: “How much is this going to cost?” The answer depends less on a fixed number and more on the size of the project, site conditions, materials, and how detailed the design is. Having a general range can still help you plan realistically and avoid surprises. For most professionally designed residential landscape projects, budgets typically fall into three broad ranges: Entry-Level Enhancements ($10,000–$30,000) These projects focus on specific improvements such as planting beds, mulch, edging, basic lighting, or small patios and walkways. They’re ideal for refreshing certain areas without a full-yard renovation. Mid-Range Transformations ($30,000–$100,000) This range often includes more complete projects—larger patios, planting plans, outdoor lighting systems, retaining walls, and grading or drainage improvements. These projects start to significantly change how the outdoor space looks and functions. High-End Custom Outdoor Living Spaces ($100,000+) At this level, landscapes are fully customized and often include multiple outdoor living areas, extensive hardscaping, built-in features, water elements, outdoor kitchens, and advanced lighting systems. These projects are tailored to the home and how you want to live outdoors. These ranges are not fixed prices—they are planning guidelines. The final cost depends on your property, your goals, and how the project is designed and built. Phased Projects: A Smart Way to Approach Larger Budgets For homeowners who want to work toward a larger vision, projects can often be completed in phases: Phase 1: Core outdoor living space (patio, grading, primary planting) Phase 2: Additional features (walkways, walls, secondary beds) Phase 3: Enhancements (extensive hardscaping, water features, expanded living areas) This approach allows you to spread investment over time while maintaining a cohesive design. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Every property is different, and so is every budget. The key is understanding what you want your outdoor space to do for you, then building a plan that brings that vision to life in a realistic way.
Spring work begins as our crew returns to start cleanups, maintenance, and new landscape projects for the season ahead.
Create a healthier, low-maintenance yard with native plants that conserve water, reduce maintenance, and support pollinators in Wisconsin
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Evolution of a drawing- Here are images from our sketch process from rough to refined. We started with our plan view drawing to come up with an attractive refined perspective to help communicate the idea and project! When drawing, start fast, be loose and get tighter as you go. It’s a layered process so trace paper is perfect. The next step is having our knowledgeable and experienced installation crew bring it from paper to reality!
formecology, LLC proudly accepts three awards at the “CotY” (Contractor of the Year) “Celebrating Excellence” ceremony on November 9th!
The event was hosted by NARI of Madison (National Association of the Remodeling Industry). NARI is an organization of high-quality remodeling professionals. Its members are committed to integrity, high standards, professional education, ethics and market recognition.
The CotY is a prestigious award presented each year to NARI members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects. Winning projects must meet score requirements under the following criteria:
- To what degree were the expressed needs of the client met?
- To what degree does the project enhance the existing structures functionally?
- To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure aesthetically?
- Is there evidence of superior craftsmanship?
- Were innovative uses of material and/or methods of construction used in the project?
formecology, LLC entered this landscape renovation project in the “Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living $70,000 to $100, 000 category and was awarded the CotY award for their fourth consecutive year!
formecology, LLC was also awarded for their 10 year membership in the NARI of Madison organization and last, but certainly not least, John Gishnock III proudly took home the “Leadership Award” – what an amazing accomplishment for formecology’s staff and crew to be recognized for these achievements!
“The first thing that came to mind was “oh what a night!” Then the reality of standing up at a microphone in front of Dane county’s finest remodelers, subcontractors and suppliers was overwhelming. Receiving the award was surprising and one of the most awesome things ever 🙂 And while on stage it was important to not forget to give thanks to everyone and acknowledge the formecology team and all that they do to make my job and ability to volunteer time to NARI easier.
The event was filled with amazing work. The nominated projects in total represented over $9m in construction work for Dane County.
We look forward to nominating projects next year, bringing more of our company to the event, and having a little bigger party on stage when we win”, says John Gishnock III.
What Drives the Cost of a Landscape Project? No two landscape projects are the same, which is why pricing can vary so much from one property to another. Understanding what affects cost helps homeowners make better decisions and prioritize where to invest. 1. Site Conditions Your existing property plays a big role in cost. Slopes, drainage issues, heavy soils, limited access for equipment, or grading needs can all add labor and time. 2. Design Complexity (Design + Build Integration) A simple patio and planting plan will cost far less than a multi-level outdoor living space with built-in lighting, seating walls, water features, and custom details. In a design/build approach, complexity goes beyond the layout—it also includes how each part is built, scheduled, and put together on-site. Projects with multiple materials, level changes, and built features require more coordination between planning and installation, as well as more skilled work to bring everything together. 3. Materials Selected Materials do affect cost—natural stone, premium pavers, hardwoods, and custom features are typically more expensive than basic options. However, materials are only one part of the total picture. Why “Just Swapping Materials” Isn’t Always Simple One common misunderstanding is the idea that you can easily lower cost by swapping materials. While that sounds simple, labor, jobsite logistics, and installation challenges often have a bigger impact on price than materials alone. For example, something as "simple as" replacing mulch with cobblestone may still involve: Prep work and grading Removal and disposal of existing materials Tight access that requires hand work Multiple crew members over several days Equipment limits or hauling materials by wheelbarrow In many cases, the time and skilled work needed stay very similar, even if the material changes. 4. Project Size Larger projects naturally require more materials, labor, and time, which increases overall cost. 5. Custom Features Custom-built elements like outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, pergolas, or built-in seating require more planning and skilled installation, which adds to the investment. 6. Access and Logistics Not all job sites are easy to work on. Limited access may require smaller equipment, extra labor, or moving materials by hand, all of which affect time and cost. Why Process Matters as Much as Materials At formecology LLC, we use a combined design and build process. This means we think through how everything will be built, scheduled, and installed—not just how it looks on paper. This includes: Crew size and coordination Equipment access and site logistics Drainage and structural work Order of installation These details aren’t always visible, but they play a major role in both cost and long-term success. Not All Landscape Projects Are the Same Some companies focus on basic installation or simple upgrades, while others specialize in more detailed, custom outdoor spaces built through a full design/build process. At formecology LLC, our focus is on well-planned, well-built outdoor environments that feel like a natural extension of your home. That level of planning and craftsmanship takes more investment—but it also leads to a smoother process and better long-term results. __________________________________________________________________________________________ A well-planned design/build process helps avoid surprises, reduces costly changes, and ensures your investment is used wisely. It’s not just about building a beautiful space—it’s about building it the right way from the start. If you’re considering a project, we’re happy to talk through what’s possible for your space.
How Much Should You Budget for a Landscape Project? One of the first questions homeowners ask when considering a landscape project is: “How much is this going to cost?” The answer depends less on a fixed number and more on the size of the project, site conditions, materials, and how detailed the design is. Having a general range can still help you plan realistically and avoid surprises. For most professionally designed residential landscape projects, budgets typically fall into three broad ranges: Entry-Level Enhancements ($10,000–$30,000) These projects focus on specific improvements such as planting beds, mulch, edging, basic lighting, or small patios and walkways. They’re ideal for refreshing certain areas without a full-yard renovation. Mid-Range Transformations ($30,000–$100,000) This range often includes more complete projects—larger patios, planting plans, outdoor lighting systems, retaining walls, and grading or drainage improvements. These projects start to significantly change how the outdoor space looks and functions. High-End Custom Outdoor Living Spaces ($100,000+) At this level, landscapes are fully customized and often include multiple outdoor living areas, extensive hardscaping, built-in features, water elements, outdoor kitchens, and advanced lighting systems. These projects are tailored to the home and how you want to live outdoors. These ranges are not fixed prices—they are planning guidelines. The final cost depends on your property, your goals, and how the project is designed and built. Phased Projects: A Smart Way to Approach Larger Budgets For homeowners who want to work toward a larger vision, projects can often be completed in phases: Phase 1: Core outdoor living space (patio, grading, primary planting) Phase 2: Additional features (walkways, walls, secondary beds) Phase 3: Enhancements (extensive hardscaping, water features, expanded living areas) This approach allows you to spread investment over time while maintaining a cohesive design. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Every property is different, and so is every budget. The key is understanding what you want your outdoor space to do for you, then building a plan that brings that vision to life in a realistic way.
Spring work begins as our crew returns to start cleanups, maintenance, and new landscape projects for the season ahead.
Create a healthier, low-maintenance yard with native plants that conserve water, reduce maintenance, and support pollinators in Wisconsin
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Evolution of a drawing- Here are images from our sketch process from rough to refined. We started with our plan view drawing to come up with an attractive refined perspective to help communicate the idea and project! When drawing, start fast, be loose and get tighter as you go. It’s a layered process so trace paper is perfect. The next step is having our knowledgeable and experienced installation crew bring it from paper to reality!
Formecology, LLC is a Finalist in the Madison Magazine’s “Best of Madison 2022”!
Formecology, LLC Attains Green Professional Status for their 8th Consecutive Year
Formecology, LLC named NARI Regional Team CotY Winner! February 1st, 2021—The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) named Formecology, LLC (team member) and Artisan Deck and Design, LLC 2021 North Central Regional Contractor of the Year (CotY) winners in the Residential Exterior $50,000-$100,000 category in its’ annual awards competition.
Formecology, LLC won three “CotY” (Contractor of the Year) awards at the “Celebrating Excellence” virtual award ceremony on November 5th! The event was hosted by NARI of Madison (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) of which Formecology, LLC has been a member of for seven years. NARI is an organization of high-quality remodeling professionals. Its members are committed to integrity, high standards, professional education, ethics and market recognition. The CotY is a prestigious award presented each year to NARI members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects. As first year entrants, Formecology, LLC won a CotY Award on all three of their entries. The CotY is awarded to projects that meet score requirements under the following criteria: To what degree were the expressed needs of the client met? To what degree does the project enhance the existing structures functionally? To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure aesthetically? Is there evidence of superior craftsmanship? Were innovative uses of material and/or methods of construction used in the project? Formecology, LLC entered a joint project with Artisan Deck and Design, LLC in the category of “Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living under $100,000”. This project consisted of a new entryway trellis and natural stone walkway. Both contractors in this winning project will receive a CotY award. Formecology, LLC’s second winning entry was a beautifully constructed “eco-driveway” in the “Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living $40,001 to $60,000” category. The driveway was built to help manage and redirect stormwater (and to help keep it from contaminating our lakes and rivers) but can also function as a patio/entertainment space. The third entry and CotY Award winning project was Evansville’s very own “ The Grove Market ” in the “Commercial Exterior” category. Local owners of this farm-to-table bistro hired Formecology, LLC to design and install a safe, ADA-accessible, low-maintenance, inviting outdoor space that tied well into their regionally based, historic building.
Achieve a naturally healthy, lower-maintenance, and chemical-free lawn that is better for you, your children, pets, and the environment. Here are some methods to help assist you throughout the year.
U sing natural stones is a niche for this sustainable landscape company. Not only do hardscapes that we build with natural stones provide beauty, safety and longevity, but they are also more eco-friendly.
