Garden Design
I produce garden designs for residential properties. These include all aspects of the property including outdoor lighting, hardscape, driveway and garage alterations, storm water management, outdoor living spaces, fencing, trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and bulbs.
Whether you need a project plan or a Master Garden Plan, having a design will make the actual work of garden installation go more smoothly.
It’s always cheaper to make changes on paper than in the midst of a project, so we start with a scale drawing that includes everything on your wish list.
Installation
We professionally install all manner of plant material including trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, bulbs and lawns. To prepare for your garden install we also:
Clear land of invasive undergrowth
Grind tree stumps, remove unwanted or diseased trees
Backfill and grade
Demo hardscape, old fencing, and haul debris
Install water features including ponds and fountains
Install outdoor lighting, outlets, fencing, and decks
Install underground pipe and water retention systems
Hardscape & Stone Work
Flagstone patios, steps, and stone garden walls are a core area of our business. In addition we are certified Porous Paver installers – a fully permeable solution for walkways, driveways and play areas.
Storm Water Management
Do you have a wet basement? Erosion after a heavy rain? Perennial beds that are so wet everything dies? We offer several tried-and-true storm water management solutions that are affordable and minimally invasive. These include permeable hardscape surfaces, downspout upgrades and underground percolation basins. A simple storm water consultation can save you a world of expense and headaches as compared to French drains and the like.
Due to the unique nature of each situation, storm water management projects often require custom service and treatment. Please call us to start the conversation about your project at 215-356-8010.
Outdoor Lighting
Lighting can transform your outdoor living space. Up lit trees become sculpture. Path lights communicate hospitality at an entry. Wall washes accentuate the architectural details of your home. Outdoor lighting expands our view during the dark winter months. Increase the safety and accessibility around your home with affordable energy efficient low voltage lighting!
Consulting
Are you a “Do-It-Yourselfer” who needs some garden coaching? Valerie offers her expertise as a consultant at an hourly rate. Whether you need project plans, implementation advice, or just need to identify suitable plants for your location, Valerie works closely with you to give you the insights, hard-earned knowledge, and recommendations you need to get the job done. Please call us to start the conversation at 215-356-8010.
Valerie’s Classes & Lectures
Water Management Solutions for Your Landscape @ Longwood Gardens
Saturday, April 1, 2023 from 9:00AM – 12:00PM. Fee: $59
Are you experiencing water issues on your property? Over the years, heavier rains and drier periods have been making water management in your landscape more challenging to navigate. Whether you must comply with your township’s impermeable surface code or you just want to be more earth-friendly, this class will introduce you to a wide array of solutions. Join water management expert and owner of Valerie Designs, LLC Valerie Solitrin, and explore a number of water management approaches, from permeable hardscape options to rain gardens to seepage beds and more. Solitrin will also examine local municipal codes and how to comply with them.
Get More Information & Register
Garden Design for Homeowners 101 @ The Morris Arboretum
Six Tuesdays in 2022: January 18, 25 & February 1, 8, 15, 22 from 7:00PM – 8:30PM
Being at home has given you plenty of time to dream about a new and improved landscape. This comprehensive overview will help you plan your outdoor living upgrades strategically. Design for privacy, four-season beauty, storm water management, and family-friendly functionality. Learn about design principles, hardscape choices, outdoor lighting, tools, trees, perennials, lawns, and soil. Six sessions jam-packed with great information will be the smartest garden investment you make!
This class has passed, but keep an eye on this space for Valerie’s upcoming courses.
Storm Water Management @ The Morris Arboretum
Saturday, February 24th, 2022 (Virtual Lecture) from 1-3PM
Heavier rains make water management around your home more challenging. Whether you must comply with your township’s impermeable surface building code, or you want to be more earth-friendly, this two-hour lecture will introduce you to a wide array of affordable solutions. Municipal codes, permeable hardscape options, seepage beds, problem downspouts and wet basements will be discussed.
This class has passed, but keep an eye on this space for Valerie’s upcoming courses.
Best Flower Bulbs for Rocky Gardens @ The Delaware Valley Rock Gardeners Association
This is a 2-hour lecture, date TBD.
Extend the season of interest in your rocky garden with BULBS! Many varieties do well in inhospitable locations, if we choose wisely. Best practises for successful planting will be covered. Visit the Delaware Valley Chapter of National Rock Garden Society website at dvcnargs@gmail.com or for general information www.nargs.org.
