Landscapes
We are a values-driven, small, landscape design-build business. We provide landscape design/build that is functional, artistic and founded on principles of good land stewardship.
In Southern Appalachia, we've got some of the most beautiful and challenging land in the world. Stone, lots of water, steep slopes, clay soil and the most diverse array of plants in the entire country. These are the "Mountain Elements" and it is a real pleasure to study and work with these natural materials to improve peoples homes.
Our mission of being a good stewards of the land is simple: enriched soil, minimal erosion and runoff, great plants (mostly native, never invasive) with great placement, ease of maintenance and habitat for birds. Our artistic mission is to create places that express harmony between people and land, what we call the "spirit of place."
Mountain Elements Landscape Design
Blake West
B.S. Botany, Minor Landscape Architecture,
M.S. Urban and Regional Planning From the University of Florida
ISA Certified Arborist
You can call me at 828-747-8475 to talk about your land anytime. I take pride in having practical knowledge of the landscape, the artistic ability to make land beautiful and the will to get the work done. I am interested in all things where people and land connect.
Growing up, my family made a big garden in the backyard that, through neighborhood interest, was relocated to a big empty lot and transformed into a county park. Its still going and you can see it here: VISTA gardens https://www.vistagardentampa.org/ I liked it, and that led to degrees in Botany (minor Landscape Architecture) and Urban Planning. I've worked on small agriculture projects, high-end residential development projects, city-wide turf swap programs, churches and many residential homes. All of my work is oriented towards good land stewardship, high quality craftsmanship and cultivating spirit of place.
Working with us
Initial Meeting
Our initial meeting is a consultation charged relative to drive time, usually between $50 and $150. Phone consultations are free. Whether you know what you want or not, we'll get the ball rolling from here.
Conceptual design package
This package includes a base map, site analysis, conceptual design sketches, photo plant lists for proposed plants, existing plant ID, estimate break downs and associated meetings. This is the foundation for design.
Final Design
The final design is a construction blueprint that is ready to be brought to life. All Mountain Elements designs are hand drawn to fit your unique landscape and lifestyle. During the final meeting, as most are unfamiliar with the blueprint "language," time will be spent on a full walk through of the details. The goal is full confidence prior to installation.
Installation
We can provide all project needs start to finish, whether that's with our own labor or with subcontractors. We work hard to get projects done and make great efforts to make the home improvement process as low-stress for homeowners as possible.
Ongoing Maintenance
Mountain Elements will connect you with a company who provides on going and seasonal services such as tree and shrub pruning, soil care etc. As your landscape matures and changes our services will be available to guide and/or make adjustments and changes as desired. This service is also available for existing landscapes that benefit from expert guidance. We can step in at any time to ensure your landscape remains a center of enjoyment for your family.
Example Project
Our Process
