Research regarding the various landscape architects/designers showed so many creating very traditional or overdone designs. We were looking for a contemporary, naturalistic landscape that was drought-tolerant and easily maintained; and that would serve to enhance our beautiful salt water views and preserve the natural bluff setbacks. When we met with Sublime the first time, we knew that they completely "got it".
I think the best part about working with Sublime was the creativity and flexibility they presented. I could express likes and dislikes easily, and was thrilled with the bits of whimsy and artistry they brought to the table. I really wanted a landscape that was "simple yet stunning"; however, we had some unique things with which to work: an existing curtain drain running the entire length of the property that we wanted to look natural, wildlife such as deer, the marine climate and winds, large property (6.5+ acres, landscaping one acre). Sublime took these obstacles and turned them into positives. Everywhere you walk, you see something that catches the eye: beautiful and unique plants, funky culvert planters and chartreuse tripod trellises, amazing stone steps, contemporary-shaped patio with pavers that match our existing stamped concrete back porch, a rugged yet sleek custom Cor-ten steel planter with "rusted" metal art panel, a meandering dry creek bed that looks as though it has been there for years...I could go on and on. But without seeing it, you miss out on all the subtleties that really make it work together, e.g., patio pavers that were cut around existing rocks so that the rocks can be used for seating or leaning. Amazing! Simple yet stunning? We got it!
Plant selection by Sublime was perfect! I am a big fan of texture and form in the garden, and I love unique pieces...my husband, on the other hand, wanted "trees". And we both really wanted the landscape to have a contemporary look that addressed the location, with low upkeep: drought-tolerant, low maintenance, native plants. Sublime did a wonderful job of listening to us. They ran everything by us, including when a particular plant might need to be changed, and sought our input. We have not seen the landscape throughout the four seasons, but the two we have observed are spectacular!
Sublime got bids for us from several highly qualified contractors; and we made the final decision on who we would use. The contractor we chose was terrific and as particular as we were! He said, on many occasions, that he really appreciated the level of detail supplied by Sublime; and he followed their plans specifically. Sublime supervised the installation of the landscape as well. At first, we were not sure we needed to have someone else do this, but as the project progressed, we really appreciated the fact that Sublime was there: handling the details, taking pictures, getting information to bring back to us, researching changes, etc.
We believe that we got outstanding service and design, along with a wealth of knowledge and resources, when we contracted with Sublime. And as much as I like to garden, I know that, by myself, I could never have envisioned a landscape even remotely as lovely in design or substance. I can honestly say that I would recommended Sublime for any project, large or small. It doesn't get any better!
~Heidi