What services do you offer?

Sage Coast designs functional outdoor living spaces with native and drought-tolerant gardens. We create complete landscape design packages including 3D visuals, custom plant palette microsites, hardscape layouts with material guidance, and planting plans.

We also offer consulting and Design Implementation Support to help guide installation so your design comes to life as intended.

Learn more about our services.

What is Design Implementation Support?

Design Implementation Support is guidance during installation to help the design translate correctly on site. This may include contractor coordination check-ins, layout clarification, and plant placement guidance.

Sage Coast is not a contractor and does not manage construction, but we help ensure the design intent is understood and followed.

Do you install landscapes or sell plants?

Sage Coast does not install landscapes or sell plants directly. We provide detailed plans and plant palettes that contractors or nurseries can source and install.

Design Implementation Support can be added if you’d like guidance during installation.

Do you work with my contractor?

Yes. We can collaborate with your contractor or connect you with trusted installers familiar with our plans. Clear documentation and optional Design Implementation Support help support accurate bids and installation.

Which areas do you serve beyond Long Beach?

We’re based in Long Beach but also serve surrounding areas, including parts of Orange County, the South Bay, and other nearby coastal communities.

Not sure if you’re in range? Reach out with your city and we’ll let you know.

Do I need a landscape architect for my backyard remodel?

Usually not. Architects focus on large-scale or highly technical projects. For most homes, a landscape designer can create everything you need at a more accessible price, from patios and firepits to planting and outdoor kitchens.

For projects that require engineering or structural work, we collaborate with qualified professionals as needed.

Read our blog post on this topic.

How long does the backyard remodel process take?

Most projects move through three phases: design (4–8 weeks), bidding and permits (2–4 weeks), and construction (2–12+ weeks depending on scope).

Construction timelines vary based on contractor availability and permitting requirements.

What does the site visit involve and how do I prepare?

A site visit is a walk-through of your space where we talk about your vision, needs, and budget. We’ll discuss priorities, constraints, and realistic investment ranges so the design aligns with how you plan to use and build the space.

To prepare, gather any inspiration images and note your must-haves and nice-to-haves.

Do you offer 3D renderings or visuals?

Yes. We provide scaled 2D plans and 3D visuals so you can see your design before it’s built. This helps you visualize the space and allows contractors to bid more accurately.

What do I receive at the end of design process?

Final deliverables typically include a scaled 2D plan set (hardscape & softscape plans), plant palette, and 3D visuals. These documents are suitable for contractor pricing and installation.

Can you work with existing elements in my yard?

Yes. If you’d like to keep mature trees, patios, or other features, we’ll design around them. We’ll also give honest feedback about what’s worth keeping and what may not serve your space long-term.

We often preserve established elements when they add long-term value to the landscape.

Can you design in phases?

Yes. Many projects are designed with phased implementation in mind so you can build the landscape over time while maintaining a cohesive overall plan.

How do you approach water-wise or drought-tolerant design?

We focus on climate-appropriate plants, efficient irrigation, and rebate-friendly solutions. Our designs often include California natives, Mediterranean species, and succulents for a sustainable, low-water landscape.

Plants are grouped by water needs and sun exposure to support long-term health and irrigation efficiency.

Can I get a rebate for replacing my lawn?

It’s possible. Many Southern California water agencies offer rebates for replacing grass with drought-tolerant landscaping. We can help design a plan that qualifies for programs like the Long Beach Lawn-to-Garden or Metropolitan Water District turf replacement rebate, making your remodel more affordable.

How much does a backyard remodel cost?

Costs vary depending on size, materials, and features. A simple, plant-focused yard might be $10K–$25K, while full outdoor living spaces with kitchens or pools can reach $80K–$200K+.

These ranges refer to construction costs. Design fees are separate and depend on scope and property size.

Read our blog on landscaping costs for a detailed breakdown.

How much should I budget before hiring a designer?

For most Southern California outdoor living projects, construction budgets typically start around $25K–$40K and increase with size and features. We can discuss realistic ranges during the site visit so the design aligns with your investment level.

What is your payment structure?

For design services, we collect 40% to begin, 40% upon delivery of the 3D design concept, and 20% to release the final 2D plan set.

For Design Implementation Support and consulting services, we collect 50% up front and the balance at completion.

Payments can be made by Zelle, bank transfer, credit card, check, or cash.