Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Hiring a Landscape Design-Build Firm

Hiring the right landscape design-build firm can make the difference between a seamless backyard transformation and a frustrating, expensive disappointment.

Whether you're investing in a custom outdoor living space, a poolside retreat, or a full landscape makeover, choosing the right team matters—especially for upscale homeowners who expect lasting value and refined results.

At Silva Custom Design, we’ve worked with many clients throughout the Detroit Metro area, Oakland County, and the Woodward Corridor, and we've seen firsthand what can go wrong when the wrong firm is hired.

Below, we’re sharing the top five mistakes to avoid when selecting your landscape design-build partner—so you can make an informed choice and enjoy the outdoor space you’ve always dreamed of.

1. Focusing Only on Price Instead of Value

It’s natural to compare quotes—but going with the lowest bid can often cost you more in the long run. A surprisingly low estimate may leave out critical details, use inferior materials, or result in rushed, subpar workmanship.

At Silva Custom Design, we believe in transparent, accurate pricing and premium materials, like Techo-Bloc pavers and wall systems, that look beautiful and perform reliably for years. We help you maximize your investment by building landscapes that add lasting value—not short-term savings with long-term regret.

2. Not Reviewing Credentials and Past Work

Many homeowners forget to ask the most important question: Can this company actually do the kind of work I want?

Choosing a firm without verifying licensing, insurance, or a strong portfolio can lead to costly delays and underwhelming results. Always look for experience, project photos, and reviews from real clients.

Silva Custom Design has a proven track record of building high-end outdoor living spaces in some of Michigan’s most prestigious communities. We’re proud to showcase our work, provide references, and stand behind every project we complete.

3. Hiring Separate Companies for Design and Build

Hiring one company to design your space and another to build it may seem efficient—but it often leads to miscommunication, budget misalignment, and finger-pointing when issues arise.

With a design-build firm like Silva, your entire project—from initial concept to final installation—is managed by one expert team. This streamlines the process, ensures consistency in vision and quality, and gives you a single point of contact from start to finish.

4. Overlooking Communication and Client Experience

Luxury landscaping isn’t just about pavers and plantings—it’s about trust, collaboration, and clear communication. If your contractor is slow to respond during the planning phase, expect even more frustration once the project is underway.

At Silva Custom Design, we pride ourselves on exceptional client communication. From the first consultation to the final walkthrough, we keep you informed, listen to your input, and adapt as your project evolves. Our clients consistently tell us that our professionalism and responsiveness set us apart.

5. Failing to Talk About Budget Early

Many homeowners hesitate to share their budget at the beginning, fearing it will limit their options or inflate the estimate. But the opposite is true—being upfront about your budget helps us create a design you love and can afford.

Our goal is to design outdoor spaces that reflect your vision and lifestyle, without surprises or stress. We’ll walk you through realistic price ranges and recommend design choices that align with your financial comfort zone—whether you're investing $40,000 or $150,000.

Affluent Michigan Communities We Proudly Serve

Silva Custom Design is trusted by discerning homeowners across the Detroit Metro area, including:

• • Birmingham
  • Bloomfield Hills
  • Franklin
  • Royal Oak
  • Huntington Woods
  • Beverly Hills
  • Pleasant Ridge
  • West Bloomfield
  • Farmington Hills
  • Troy

Let’s Get Your Project Started—The Right Way

Avoiding these five common mistakes will set you up for a successful, stress-free experience with results you’ll be proud of for years. At Silva Custom Design, we specialize in full-service landscape design and build projects tailored to luxury homeowners who want the best.

If you’re planning a poolside landscape, outdoor living area, or full backyard transformation, let’s talk. We’ll take the time to understand your vision, your property, and your goals—then deliver a space that exceeds expectations.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation.