NELO designs and builds projects through a friendly and straightforward process.

Every project begins with a conversation. We take the time to understand your goals, the character of your site, and how you envision experiencing the landscape.

We work with you from beginning to end. From initial design concepts all the way through construction.

How We Work

Design

We approach each project in three phases:

  1. Concept Design

  2. Design Development

  3. Construction Documentation

In each phase we work with you to refine goals, present options, and make key design decisions.

Build

We build projects by coordinating trusted teams of landscape builders, fabricators, and suppliers.

We represent you throughout the build process, clearly communicating and managing expectations between you and the contractor team from start to finish.

We ensure that design intent is never lost and that every detail is carried through to completion.

  • A glimpse into the design + build process of the courtyard at our North Shore Retreat Project.

    The Courtyard is a focal point of the home from the inside and out featuring natural stonework and native plantings.

  • Initial Site Visits

    The process kicks off with a site visit to take inventory of the space, taking photos, measurements, and notes along the way.

  • Concept Imagery

    Character images are assembled to illustrate design ideas before getting into specifics.

  • Conceptual Site Plans

    Site plans and diagrams are developed to show general landscape areas.

  • 3D Site Modeling

    3D models are created to test ideas and create visuals. The image above shows a grading study at the entry.

  • 3D Design Studies

    Detailed studies of key areas are conducted as we work towards more refined design ideas.

  • Site Renderings

    Rendered views are used to test material and plant combinations, as well as test scale and proportions of the landscape.

  • Construction Drawings

    Schematic style drawings are produced to create cost estimates and provide detailed information for construction.

  • Sitework and Stone Installation

    The project breaks ground and begins with sitework and natural stone installation.

  • Planting

    Following sitework and stone installation, planting begins. The courtyard utilizes swaths of native perennials and a specimen pine.

  • Courtyard Completion

    One year after install and the courtyard is grown!

Work With Us!