Hire the Best Landscape Designers

Clients rate our Landscape Designers
Rating is 4.8 out of 5.
4.8/5
Based on 1,643 client reviews
Leslie W.

Greensboro, North Carolina

$45/hr
4.9
330 jobs

My main focus is on providing master landscape and planting plans for new outdoor projects and renovations. I enjoy creating conceptual designs as well as technical site solutions and presentation graphics. My experience includes work as an independent consultant, service to other design offices, teaching at a technical community college, and reviewing development permits for historic preservation and landscape ordinance requirements in a city planning department. I am registered in the state of N.C. These are comments that were offered during a variety of projects. I have had great clients but they are busy people after closing contracts. (The quotes don’t show on pubic feedback but were copied from UpWork records:) “Thanks for the super quick work - you are a blessing.” “I love the color rendering. You are awesome. Thanks, Leslie. You are a very creative Landscape Architect.” “The graphics are perfect, Nice work.” “Leslie, I love the way everything came together. Great job and I am so excited to get started when the time is right.” “Thanks a ton! You have done what I was having problems wrapping my brain around! You have saved me many hours at Lowe’s and Home Depot and money on mistakes as well!” ”I do appreciate the quick and good work you do.” “You provided a good foundation for what we need and we can make this work now - Thanks.” "I appreciate the work and realize I need to be more attentive about the drop off of elevation that happens in the back yard. Again, thank you for your time and helping me realize I need to clarify the plans for the space." "Hi Leslie! This is amazing. I think it is exactly what we were looking for! Gave us a plan we can slowly implement. It was great. We would not have planned or thought of it." "Leslie, this is the kind of holistic, forward, informed thinking I’m looking for." (After receiving concepts) "Leslie, thank you for the excellent plans and very helpful notes. It's nice to have a view into what you were thinking as you put the plans together. Both very thoughtful and usable." "Hi Leslie, Wow -- you really captured the essence of our space! I feel like I have such a better sense of what needs to happen. The stairs off the deck and continuation of the pathways across front entry and through garden make perfect sense. " " This is all great - and just the sort of guidance I was after. I love the ideas. Let me take these to this afternoon's discussion. This is all invaluable to us." "Leslie, Thank you for accepting our contract...you were who I wanted when I did my initial search...when we started receiving proposals we saw so many clearly talented designers but all were modern with no attention to adding the charm that makes things look timeless, loved, comforting." "The visuals are super helpful! Loving how this looks. We will be sitting and stewing on this for a bit so we can close this contract and rehire you when we are picking it back up. Just amazing. Thanks for your help!"

  • Landscape Design
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Digital Illustration
  • Landscape Master Planning
  • Planting Design
  • Concept Design
  • Illustration
  • Plant Selection
  • 2D Design
  • Site Planning
  • Residential Design
Reeta D.

Una, India

$15/hr
4.9
145 jobs

🌟------------⭐LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION DESIGNER⭐----------🌟 Hi, I’m Reeta, a professional Landscape and Irrigation Design Engineer with 12+ years of experience at AthomDesigns. I create sustainable landscape designs, water-efficient irrigation systems, and custom planting plans that are stunning, eco-friendly, and tailored to your needs. From cozy residential gardens to large-scale commercial projects with 1000+ zones, I deliver precision, creativity, and cost-effective solutions every time. My mission is to bring your vision to life with error-free designs, fast turnarounds, and 100% client satisfaction, ensuring outdoor spaces that captivate and endure—big or small. 💧💧💧💧💧 My Services 💧💧💧💧💧 ------------------------ 💧Irrigation System Design 💧---------------------- Custom Irrigation Layouts: Expert head placement, zoning, and lateral designs for small residential systems to 1000+ zone commercial networks. Irrigation Scheduling: Optimized for sustainable water management across all project sizes. System Auditing & Optimization: Enhance efficiency for existing irrigation setups, from backyards to estates. Material Takeoffs: Accurate estimates for builders, installation engineers, and material takeoff companies. Irrigation Redesign: Upgrade systems for water conservation and performance, no matter the scale. ----------------------🌳 Landscape Architecture & Design🌳--------------------- Site Planning: Thoughtful landscape layouts for small urban yards to multi-acre properties. Softscape & Hardscape Design: Lawns, patios, pools, and outdoor living spaces for every lifestyle. Turf, SOD, Grass & Mulch: Drought-tolerant landscaping for beauty and low maintenance. Tree & Shrub Design: Strategic selections for year-round curb appeal, from intimate gardens to grand estates. --------------------🌸 Custom Planting Plans 🌸 ----------------------- Native Plant Selection: Climate-appropriate plants for sustainability in small or large designs. Garden Design: Balanced layouts with evergreen landscapes and seasonal vibrancy. Plant Sizing & Placement: Harmonious plans for scalable growth and aesthetic perfection. -------------------🛠 Why Choose Me? 🛠----------------------- Versatile Expertise: 12+ years delivering digitized, high-quality designs for small residential landscapes and large-scale commercial projects. Scalable Solutions: Proven success with 1000+ zone irrigation systems and intimate backyard designs, ensuring precision at any scale. Trusted Partner: Collaborating with builders, property managers, installation engineers, and material takeoff companies for seamless results. Software Proficiency: Skilled in AutoCAD, Land F/X, RainCAD, and Adobe for professional-grade deliverables. Eco-Conscious: Dedicated to water conservation and sustainable landscaping practices. ------------------🤝 Who I Work With 🤝------------------ I partner with homeowners, landscape architects, irrigation contractors, garden designers, builders, property managers, installation engineers, and material takeoff companies. Whether you’re dreaming of a charming patio garden or managing a large-scale development, I provide tailored designs that fit your vision, timeline, and budget. ---------------------💬 Let’s Create Your Perfect Outdoor Space! 💬 --------------------- Ready to transform your space with a custom landscape or innovative irrigation design? Message me today to discuss your project—whether it’s a small backyard oasis or a 1000+ zone masterpiece. I’ll deliver a detailed, affordable plan to make it happen. Excited to bring your outdoor vision to life!

  • Landscape Design
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Landscape Design Consultation
  • Planting Design
  • Landscaping
  • Architectural Design
  • Landscape Master Planning
  • Commercial Design
  • Drafting
  • 2D Landscape Drawing
  • Material Take-Off
Natasa I.

Nis, Serbia

$60/hr
4.9
283 jobs

Are you looking for a landscape design that doesn't just look good on a screen, but is actually buildable and stays within budget? Most homeowners and developers struggle with landscape designers who create beautiful "art" that contractors can't actually build.  My job is to combine high-end aesthetic vision with technical precision to ensure your outdoor space increases your property value and functions perfectly. WHAT I BRING TO YOUR PROJECT: 1. Photorealistic 3D Renderings: Visualize your garden, pool, or patio before a single stone is laid. 2. Detailed Technical Drawings: Accurate 2D CAD layouts, planting plans, and drainage schemes for smooth permit approvals. 3. Smart Material Selection: I choose materials that balance luxury with durability and local climate needs. EFFICIENCY: I use AutoCAD/Lumion/SketchUp/Realtime Landscaping to deliver high-quality work with fast turnarounds. WHY CLIENTS CHOOSE ME: 💬"We have worked with Natasa to complete 3D renderings of our architectural drawings for a few years now. Every time we receive a rendering package from her, we are always stunned at how incredibly detailed and beautiful they are. We always get great feedback from our clients when we show them the renderings, and they have helped immensely with showcasing our work. Natasa is also very efficient in completing projects -especially given the amount of detail she includes in her renderings. We couldn't ask for a more talented and skilled professional to work with!" - Engelina Schmitz (Gardening By Design Inc.) Ottawa, Ontario, Canada  💬"I have worked with Natasa several times on different landscaping and hardscaping projects of mine, and she has always been amazing. Very punctual and detailed. Highly recommend. " - Sina K. | Design Scapes Inc 💬"Wow! Natasa is SUPER amazing, this is one of the best, if not the best freelancer we have ever worked with. Our backyard is really really great, the kids will love it for years to come. Natasa is happy to make it exactly how you want it, her quality is great, we were able to print out the images and show the contractors exactly what we wanted, which helped them make it without mistakes. If they were confused they just referenced the images. Everyone that comes over says it looks like a resort and they love it. Nice work Natasa and thank you!" - Tyler Moore MY SIPMLE 3-STEP PROCESS: Discovery: We discuss your vision, budget, and site constraints. Design & Refine: I provide initial concepts and iterate based on your feedback. Delivery: You receive a complete package of high-res renders and technical files. Ready to transform your outdoor space? Click the "Invite to Job" or "Hire" button on the top right, and let’s schedule a brief chat to discuss your vision!

  • Landscape Design
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • V-Ray
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • SketchUp
  • 3D Design
  • 2D Design
  • 3D Animation
  • 3D Modeling
  • 3D Rendering
  • Architectural Design
  • Architectural Rendering
  • Interior Design
  • Architecture & Interior Design
  • 2D Drawing
Moayad B.

Oakville, Canada

$40/hr
4.8
250 jobs

🏆 Top Rated Plus | Top 3% on Upwork 🏆 100% Job Success | 200+ Projects Completed I’m Moayad B. A professional Architect and Landscape Designer with over 8 years of experience delivering residential landscape design, exterior architecture, and 3D visualization for homeowners, contractors, designers, and developers across the USA and Canada. I help clients turn ideas into clear, buildable designs—using well-planned layouts, industry-ready drawings, and photorealistic 3D renderings that reduce guesswork and speed up decisions. My approach is simple: work with the site, respect the architecture, and design spaces that truly belong. Services Residential landscape & backyard design Patios, hardscape, walkways & outdoor living Exterior elevation design (2D & 3D) Native planting, water features & lighting concepts Interior layout & visualization (residential) 3D renderings & walkthrough videos Why Clients Hire Me ✔ Clear communication & fast turnaround ✔ Strong understanding of North American standards ✔ Detailed drawings & realistic visuals ✔ Full-time availability & reliable timelines Software AutoCAD | 3ds Max | SketchUp | Lumion | D5 Render Let’s Get Started Send me a message with your project location, scope, and timeline, and I’ll guide you on the best next steps.

  • Landscape Design
  • Lumion
  • SketchUp
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Landscape Master Planning
  • Concept Design
  • 3D Modeling
  • High-Quality Rendering
  • Photorealistic Rendering
  • Space Planning
  • Residential Remodeling
  • Home Design
  • Construction Document Preparation
  • 3D Landscape Rendering
  • 2D Landscape Drawing
Fatih K.

Izmir, Turkey

$20/hr
4.9
27 jobs

🎖 Top Rated 🎖 We are a dedicated team of skilled landscape designers and architects, passionate about bringing your visions to life. With proficiency in a wide array of design tools such as SketchUp, AutoCAD, Photoshop, and Lumion, we excel at crafting intricate 2D plans, precise 3D models, and immersive realistic renders for your landscape projects. Our meticulous attention to detail and artistic flair ensure that each design and visualization is created with the utmost care. Let us transform your ideas into stunning visual realities.

  • Landscape Design
  • SketchUp
  • 3D Rendering
  • 3D Modeling
  • 3D Design
  • Autodesk 3ds Max
  • Autodesk Revit
  • Visualization
  • Landscaping
  • AutoCAD Plant 3D
  • Plant Design
  • Luminoth
  • Architectural Design
  • Exterior Rendering
  • 2D Landscape Drawing
Marija J.

Belgrade, Serbia

$45/hr
4.9
277 jobs

M&L Design is a family-run architectural studio that has two generations of architects and engineers and represents good mixture of experience and creativity. Our team consists of architects, landscape architect, interior and furniture designer and structural engineer. We offer a wide range of architectural services to the clients. Our goal is to achieve harmony of form and space. The space that is designed to fit people’s needs is the one that makes them feel good. We believe that only integrated planning achieves functionality, good design and energy efficiency. The client's satisfaction is our primary goal. We can provide conceptual and detailed architectural, interior and landscape 2d plans, 3d visualization - renders and video animations as well as photo-montages. We use Metric and Imperial System.

  • Landscape Design
  • 3D Rendering
  • Building Regulation Preparation
  • SketchUp
  • Lumion
  • Residential Design
  • Autodesk Revit
  • Architectural Design
  • Interior Design
  • CAD Drafting
  • Detailed Design
  • Exterior Rendering
  • Residential Remodeling
  • Material Selection

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Landscape designer hiring guide

Landscape designers combine creativity, technical expertise, and environmental awareness to transform ordinary areas into extraordinary landscapes that enhance a property's beauty and functionality. Their work can impact the appeal and value of outdoor spaces, from residential gardens to commercial spaces.

Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or property developer, this guide will help you find the right freelance landscape designer to bring your vision to life.

What does a landscape designer do?

A landscape designer specializes in planning and designing outdoor spaces, including gardens, parks, and residential yards. They combine artistic vision with technical knowledge to create visually appealing and functional landscapes. Landscape designers often communicate their ideas using graphic design and 2D design skills.

Landscape designers work closely with clients to understand their needs and preferences, considering climate, soil conditions, and local regulations. They use their expertise in horticulture, design principles, and spatial planning to develop landscape plans that may include hardscape elements, plant selections, and water features.

Many landscape designers also incorporate 3D modeling and 3D rendering techniques to create photorealistic visualizations of their designs.

How to hire a landscape designer on Upwork

Upwork makes it easy to find and connect with landscape designers from all over the world. But to narrow that field to the right person with the technical skills and artistic vision that match your projects needs benefits from taking a strategic approach. From defining your design needs to finalizing a contract, each stage plays a critical role in securing a successful partnership. 

Step 1: Craft a targeted job post

A well-written job post is your first opportunity to connect with skilled landscape designers who specialize in projects with your technical needs. The more specific you are about your outdoor space and design goals, the more likely you are to receive proposals from candidates who can deliver results.

  • Create a clear, detailed job post that outlines your property details, style preferences, and expected deliverables to attract qualified landscape designers who understand your vision

  • Describe your space, current conditions, and whether the project is residential or commercial

  • List specific must-have features (e.g., patios, water features, native plants) and your preferred design style

  • Specify required deliverables such as 2D site plans, 3D renderings, or planting lists, and note any software preferences like AutoCAD or SketchUp

If you'd like help getting started, try Upwork's Job Post Generator, powered by Uma, Upwork's Mindful AI™. Describe what you need in a few sentences, and Uma will draft a job post in seconds tailored for your needs. You can also review job description templates to get a feel for what your job post might include, and how it might be formatted.

Step 2: Filter and evaluate candidates

As you begin to receive proposals, you’ll want to take a systematic approach to reviewing candidates. This will help you identify designers whose skills and creative style match your project requirements. 

  • Use Upwork's filters to narrow your search to designers who match your budget and experience requirements

  • Look for candidates with high Job Success Scores and talent badges like Top Rated or Top Rated Plus

  • Examine portfolios for projects similar to yours in scale and style, looking for before-and-after photos or detailed renderings

  • Check client reviews and testimonials to get an idea of how well they’ve worked with past clients

Step 3: Interview your top choices

A quick video interview can quickly answer any questions you have left for your top candidates. It can also help ensure the designer’s vision matches your own. 

  • Discuss your project in depth to assess the designer's process, clarifying timelines, revision policies, and technical capabilities

  • Ask about their specific design process, how they handle site analysis, and their approach to local climate challenges

  • Discuss their experience with local zoning regulations and sustainable design practices if relevant to your project

  • Request a walkthrough of a past project to understand how they solve design problems and incorporate client feedback

If you haven’t interviewed freelancers in the past, or just want a refresher, you can review common interview questions for freelancers to help your conversation be productive.

Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work

Before the person you choose can begin work, you’ll need to have a contract in place. A contract protects both parties and sets the foundation for a successful collaboration. 

  • Use Upwork’s tools and services to create a contract (just follow the on-screen instructions) and for payment processing

  • Choose a fixed-price contract for projects with well-defined deliverables

  • Set clear milestones for key phases, such as concept development, preliminary plans, and final construction documents

  • Choose an hourly contract for ongoing consultation and design development

  • Define specific file formats for deliverables and establish a schedule for check-ins and revisions

How much does hiring a landscape designer cost?

Landscape designers on Upwork typically charge $15-$25 per hour, though rates will vary according to a project’s complexity and scope, as well as the designer’s experience and skills. The following chart lists typical costs for hiring a landscape designer for projects commonly found on Upwork:

Basic consultation and concept design

$300-$500 /project

Entry- to mid-level
  • Initial site analysis
  • Mood boards and basic 2D layout
  • Plant recommendations

Ongoing design support

$600-$2,000 /month

Mid- to senior-level
  • Monthly design consultations
  • Seasonal planting plans
  • Design adjustments and project oversight

Residential garden design

$1,000-$3,000 /project

Mid- to senior-level
  • Complete design plan with planting schemes
  • Hardscape layout and 3D renderings
  • Material specifications

Full landscape design and planning

$3,000-$8,000+ /project

Senior-level or specialist
  • Comprehensive design for large properties
  • Multiple design revisions
  • Detailed construction documents

Commercial landscape design

$5,000-$15,000+ /project

Expert or specialist
  • Large-scale commercial property design
  • Sustainability integration
  • Regulatory compliance documentation

Frequently asked questions

Is hiring a landscape designer worth it?

Yes, hiring a landscape designer is typically worth the investment for homeowners and businesses looking to maximize the potential of their outdoor space. Professional designers bring technical knowledge of soil, drainage, and horticulture that helps prevent costly DIY mistakes. Furthermore, a cohesive, well-planned landscape can significantly increase property value and curb appeal, often providing a return on investment that exceeds the initial design cost.

How do I choose a good landscape designer?

To choose a good landscape designer, review their portfolio to ensure their style matches your vision and check for experience with projects of similar scale to yours. Look for clear communication skills, positive client testimonials, and technical proficiency in design software. You should also ask about their experience with your local climate and zoning regulations to ensure the design is viable and sustainable.

What's the difference between a landscape designer and a landscape architect?

While there is some overlap in their roles, landscape architects typically have more formal education and state licensing requirements, allowing them to work on large-scale commercial grading, drainage, and public infrastructure projects. Landscape designers generally focus on the artistic, horticultural, and spatial planning aspects of residential and smaller commercial projects, often without requiring a license depending on local laws.

How long does a typical landscape design project take?

The duration of a landscape design project varies by scope, but a standard residential design phase typically takes two to six weeks. Simple garden plans may be completed in two to four weeks, while complex commercial projects or full estate master plans can span several months. This timeline usually covers the design and planning phase, with implementation timelines varying based on contractor availability and seasonality.

Can a landscape designer help with sustainable or eco-friendly designs?

Many landscape designers specialize in sustainable and eco-friendly practices that support local ecosystems. They can incorporate water-saving techniques like rain gardens, select native plants that thrive without excessive irrigation, and recommend permeable hardscaping materials to reduce runoff.