Welcome to my personal website
I am a young, passionate, Landscape Architect seeking to create simple but powerful landscapes. As a highly motivated and dedicated person, I have developed a rigorous interest in designing and advocating sustainable ecosystems. These designs negotiate environmental, social, cultural and political influences to create vibrant projects. I am passionate about how people interact with the landscape and public spaces and I strive to promote a connection between the environment and its occupants by implementing bold ideas. I have thoroughly enjoyed my growth as a Landscape Architect and I crave to continue my participation in this field far into the future.
“If everything exists within the landscape, then landscape architects must learn to design everything.”
Landscape Architecture is the multi-disciplinary field, incorporating aspects of botany, horticulture, architecture, industrial design, soil sciences, environmental psychology, geography, ecology and civil engineering. Landscape Architects analyze, plan, design, manage, and nurture the built and natural environments. They also have a significant impact on communities and quality of life including designing parks, campuses, streetscapes, trails, plazas, therapeutic gardens and other projects that help define a community.
ABOUT
I grew up along the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast. I graduated from Moss Point High School in 2003 and from Mississippi State University in 2008 where I received my Bachelors of Landscape Architecture.
When I am not at my job, I enjoy spending my free time with my wife, daughter and son, playing Scrabble, working in the yard, drawing, golfing and playing video games. I also enjoy staying up to date on all the latest plants, newest technology and design trends. With experience in web, graphic and landscape design, I maintain a healthy balance between functionality and visual impact in all my work. I believe every piece of design can be a work of art.
I am a highly creative, experienced, extremely organized and schedule oriented professional. My meticulous attention to detail, outgoing personality and versatile skill sets have enabled me to gain extensive experience in all aspects of design. I love my work and enjoy each new project as I receive it.
PORTFOLIO
RESUME
EXPERIENCE
February 2019 – Present
John Renfroe | Landscape Architect, LLC – Columbus, Georgia
Owner / Landscape Architect / Certified Arborist
September 2022 – Present
Columbus Consolidated Government – Columbus, Georgia
Assistant Planning Director / Landscape Architect / Certified Arborist
January 2018 – August 2022
Columbus Consolidated Government – Columbus, Georgia
Principal Planner / Landscape Architect / Certified Arborist
August 2016 – December 2017
Columbus Consolidated Government – Columbus, Georgia
Planner I / Landscape Architect / Certified Arborist
January 2012 – August 2016
A Cut Above Landscape Management – Columbus, Georgia
Landscape Architect / Certified Arborist
May 2009 – December 2011
Chris Francis Landscapes – Daphne, Alabama
Landscape Designer / Certified Arborist
May 2008 – April 2009
First Federal Savings & Loan – Moss Point, Mississippi
Teller / Runner
EDUCATION
2004 – 2008
Bachelors of Landscape Architecture
Mississippi State University
2007
Mike Lin Two-Week Graphic Workshop
Manhattan, Kansas
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS
PROJECTS FINISHED
317
PROJECTS VALUE
$3,935,000
LICENSES & MEMBERSHIPS
December 2019 – Present
Registered Landscape Architect, State of Georgia
License: LA001875
October 2014 – Present
Registered Landscape Architect, State of Mississippi
License: 642
June 2011 – Present
International Society of Arboriculture – Certified Arborist
License: SO-6580A
October 2006 – Present
American Society of Landscape Architecture (ASLA)
Member ID: 1106365
June 2010 – Present
International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
Member ID: 199576
August 2016 – Present
American Planning Association (APA)
Member ID: 330115
August 2016 – Present
Georgia Planning Association (GPA)
Member ID: 330115
HONORS & AWARDS
• Ledger-Enquirer Readers Choice Award – Gold (Architect) (2022)
• PLANET: National Landscape Award of Excellence – Merit Award (2014)
• Festival of Flowers – Mobile, Alabama (2010, 2011, 2012 & 2013)
• Ledger Enquirer Award – Best Lawn Service (2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014)
• Alabama Nursery & Landscape Association – Landscape Award (2012)
• Art in the Park Flower Extravaganza – Foley, Alabama (2011)
• Boy Scouts of America – Eagle Scout Award (2001)
PERSONAL SKILLS
MARKERS USED
112
ESTIMATES FINISHED
965
PROCESS
Landscape Architecture is the collective design of landforms, plant material, buildings, paving materials, space, and water. Landscape Architects are educated and trained to solve problems with exterior spaces, circulation, and spatial relationship with a thorough understanding of all elements that may affect the final design. Through careful planning and development, the true success of an outdoor space depends on the thoughtful and sensitive combination of all design elements.
A truly successful project will be thoughtfully executed through a design process. Depending on the scope of the project, the design process will constantly vary and change. Why have a design process? The process provides a logical, organized framework for creating a design solution. Secondly, it will insure that the solution evolves and is consistent with the client’s desires and budget. Thirdly, it will maximize the best use of the property and space. Finally, it serves as a basis for explaining and rationalizing the best possible solution to the client. The process is a collaboration and overlap of ideas. No one aspect of the process occurs independently.
The design process is a framework or outline of steps that occur simultaneously. The success of the process relies upon the designer’s observation and the willingness of the client to be an integral part of the design. If the process is carefully thought through, the designer will continuously question all decisions to insure a successful project.
I am committed to a complete and thorough understanding of your needs and objectives. I will carefully prepare a design solution that enhances your quality of living. I am confident that once the process is complete, your property will be a personalized landscape that expresses your individualism and taste for life.
“If you can’t describe what you are doing as a process, you don’t know what you’re doing.” W. Edwards Deming
1. MEETING
During the initial consultation, we will have our first discussions about the project including location, size, initial ideas, uses, budget and timeline. Make sure to have any examples of plants, materials or magazine articles ready for discussion.
2. RESEARCH
Once an agreement to begin work is established, I can then begin collecting information pertaining to the site including measurements, viewsheds, topography, existing vegetation and structures, surrounding uses as well as utility line locations and restrictions/covenants.
3. CONCEPT PLAN
The concept design stage is when I put pen to paper to develop the initial ideas for the project. The main objective of this stage is to provide the client with an understanding of the proposed spatial arrangement, programs, functions, constraints, opportunities and overall aesthetics.
4. MASTER PLAN
Now all of the stages culminate to the master plan. The project package is complete and includes a master plan, planting plan, drainage plan, irrigation plan, tree preservation plan, plant identification list, 3D model and flythrough as well as perspectives of high profile areas.
5. INSTALLATION
Often times, once the project package is completed the client puts the project out to bid to local companies. The owner will then receive multiple bids to complete the work. If project oversight is needed during construction I am happy to provide this service as well.
SERVICES
Offering professional services for customers who demand perfection.
A Landscape Consultation is the perfect solution for weekend warriors and DIY customers who need inspiration but have a limited budget. Prior to my visit, please have any plants, hardscape materials or magazine articles ready to discuss so you get the most out of your Consultation. The Consultation includes me traveling to your site. Once at the site I will listen to your goals and help you achieve them in the most efficient and cost effective way possible. A few items we may discuss during the Consultation include plant types and spacing, bed layout, hardscape dimensioning, vegetation health, trimming and pruning techniques, informal sketches, pest and disease identification and much, much more. During your visit, plant location (flagging) with plant names as well as flower bed lines outlined (painted) is provided. Once the Consultation is complete I will compile an Overview Report of everything we discuss including Plant Pictures, Materials Recommendations and any necessary Sketches. I can also provide recommendations of which local Reputable Landscape Companies in town I trust. I currently offer 4 types of Landscape Consultations, more information about each type can viewed on the tabs above. If you aren’t sure, please use the PROJECT INQUIRY button to the left to describe your project so that I can better assist you.
The Plant & Bed Layout Consultation is the most requested item I offer. This is ideal for the Do It Yourselfers and Weekend Warriors that don’t mind getting a little dirty. This is a great service for people who need help getting started but don’t need a full Landscape Design. During the Consultation I am happy to discuss patio, walkway, driveway, firepits, water features, raised gardens, and much, much more. Once I have a better understanding of your project I will flag and paint the areas we discussed so you can have a better visual of how your project will feel once it’s completed. The layout is the most important part and can ultimately save you a lot of time and money if done correctly. During the visit I will provide rough, informal sketches that are yours to keep. Once the visit is complete I will generate an Overview Sheet that will detail everything we discussed. This sheet will cover any materials or plants we discussed during your visit. If you decide the installation is too much for you to complete I am happy to recommend a local landscape company I trust.
The Plant & Bed Layout Consultation is $200.00 / Visit. 2 hours are included in the Consultation visit and includes drive time. 1 hour is dedicated to the onsite walkthrough with the remaining 1 hour dedicated to the reporting process. If you require more than the allotted 2 hours, my hourly rate is $85.00 / hour. $200.00 is due after the onsite walkthrough
The Trimming & Pruning Consultation is great if you aren’t quite sure about how to prune a plant but you don’t mind getting your hands a little dirty. During the Consultation I will teach you the best techniques to trim and prune your plants throughout your property. I will also discuss the best times to prune and provide you an Overview Sheet that will detail each plant and pruning time for your records. During this time I will go over the necessary tools you will need to complete the job. The right tool can be effective in providing proper, clean cuts and reducing damage to the tree as much as possible. When I prune I am looking to keep the true structure of the plant, while removing dead or diseased limbs and eliminating any shoots that may appear. Groupings of plants should be trimmed to be one unit, not individual plants, often referred to as “Landscape Meatballs”. Even low maintenance landscapes need pruning from time to time. Selective hand pruning is the best method for keeping the true shape of a plant.
The Trimming & Pruning Consultation is $200.00 / Visit. 2 hours are included in the Consultation visit and includes drive time. 1 hour is dedicated to the onsite walkthrough with the remaining 1 hour dedicated to the reporting process. If you require more than the allotted 2 hours, my hourly rate is $85.00 / hour. $200.00 is due after the onsite walkthrough
If HGTV has taught us anything it is that a beautiful, vibrant landscape is effective in providing curb appeal when selling your home. You may have a beautiful home inside, but the exterior is what initially attracts a buyer. Annual Planters are one of the many great solutions for improving visual interest in your landscape, you can easily add diversity and color to any area in your yard at an affordable price. I would be happy to discuss my Annual Planter solutions and services with you during the visit. Selling a home isn’t the only reason to improve curb appeal, a great landscape can complement a beautiful home. A few tips and pointers can assist you in achieving that goal. During this Consultation we will discuss budget and I will offer ideas that provide the most benefit for your investment. I will provide an Overview Sheet that will detail everything we discussed. If you so choose you can do the work yourself or use the provided Overview Sheet to get estimates from local landscape companies. I would also be happy to provide a reference to local landscape companies I trust.
The Curb Appeal Ideas is $200.00 / Visit. 2 hours are included in the Consultation visit and includes drive time. 1 hour is dedicated to the onsite walkthrough with the remaining 1 hour dedicated to the reporting process. If you require more than the allotted 2 hours, my hourly rate is $85.00 / hour. $200.00 is due after the onsite walkthrough
If you’re a home owner, business owner or manage your HOA Lawn Maintenance and feel overwhelmed about your current Landscape Contract, please let me help you improve your contract. Many times landscape contracts are wordy and have a lot of “landscape jargon” that you may not understand. I can help you clarify confusion regarding services promised versus actual services received. These services often include details like fertilizer application, pine straw installation, annual plants, trimming and pruning. These contracts are often more beneficial for the landscape company instead of the customer. I have over 7 years of knowledge gathered from the Landscape industry which has prepared me to compose the most cost effective contracts that benefit you first. My contracts are extremely detailed, lay out all of the expectations for both parties involved and the repercussions for unsatisfied customers.
The Contract Audit & Update is $200.00 / Visit. 2 hours are included in the Consultation visit and includes drive time. 1 hour is dedicated to the onsite walkthrough with the remaining 1 hour dedicated to reading and researching your current Landscape Contract. After that I will give you an estimate to complete your updated Landscape Contract. If you require more than the allotted 2 hours, my hourly rate is $85.00 / hour. $200.00 is due after the initial onsite walkthrough.
Have you ever looked at your landscape and thought to yourself:
- Are you building a new house or planning an addition?
- Are you tired of your neighbor’s yard always looking better than yours?
- Do you have an idea of what you want but aren’t sure how to achieve it?
Then a Landscape Design is the ideal way to give you the overall picture to achieve your goals. All Landscape Designs begin with a Landscape Consultation during which I listen to your goals, gather information about your site, get measurements, take pictures and get a feel for the surrounding area. After the Consultation, I take all of the information I have gathered and begin designing your site. A black and white Concept Plan will be forwarded to you to confirm we share the same vision for your landscape. After confirmation, I begin selecting specific plant types, hardscape materials and other requested features. The Landscape Design includes a Hand Rendered Master Plan, Plant Identification Sheets, Planting Plan with Quantities as well as a Detailed Estimate. 3D Model with Flythrough, Irrigation Plans, Drainage Plans and Lighting Plans can be included at an additional cost. After completion you will be able to use these documents to receive bids from local landscape companies to complete the project. You would also have all of the necessary information to complete the project on your own. I currently offer 6 types of Landscape Designs, depending on the size of the project, more information about each type can viewed on the tabs above. If you aren’t sure, please use the PROJECT INQUIRY button to the left to describe your project so that I can better assist you.
- $425.00 – Rendered Master Plan
- • Rendered To Scale Site Plan
- • Planting Plan with Locations & Quantities
- • Plant Identification Sheets
- • Detailed Estimate
- Add-Ons
- $170.00 – 3D Model
- • 3D Model Images & Flythrough
- $170.00 – LED Lighting Design
- • Lighting Plan with Material Quantities
- $170.00 – Side Yard Design
- • Include Side Yards in the Design
- $170.00 – Drainage Design
- • Drainage Plan with Material Quantities
- $255.00 – Advanced Hardscape Design
- • Outdoor Kitchen, Firepit & Multi-level
- Please Note:
- ▸ Landscape Consultation fee of $200.00 due after walkthrough
- ▸ Half payment due upfront before design work begins
- ▸ 1 Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
- ▸ Remainder of bill will be invoiced separately after design acceptance
- ▸Pricing is subject to change depending on the complexity of the project
- ▸Front Yard Design restricted to 1/4 Acre or less
- $650.00 – Rendered Master Plan
- • Rendered To Scale Site Plan
- • Planting Plan with Locations & Quantities
- • Plant Identification Sheets
- • Detailed Estimate
- Add-Ons
- $255.00 – 3D Model
- • 3D Model Images & Flythrough
- $225.00 – LED Lighting Design
- • Lighting Plan with Material Quantities
- $170.00 – Side Yard Design
- • Include Side Yards in the Design
- $225.00 – Drainage Design
- • Drainage Plan with Material Quantities
- $340.00 – Advanced Hardscape Design
- • Outdoor Kitchen, Firepit & Multi-level
- Please Note:
- ▸ Landscape Consultation fee of $200.00 due after walkthrough
- ▸ Half payment due upfront before design work begins
- ▸ 1 Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
- ▸ Remainder of bill will be invoiced separately after design acceptance
- ▸Pricing is subject to change depending on the complexity of the project
- ▸Back Yard Design restricted to 1/4 Acre or smaller
- $850.00 – Rendered Master Plan
- • Rendered To Scale Site Plan
- • Planting Plan with Locations & Quantities
- • Plant Identification Sheets
- • Detailed Estimate
- $340.00 – 3D Model
- • 3D Model Images & Flythrough
- $255.00 – LED Lighting Design
- • Lighting Plan with Material Quantities
- $255.00 – Drainage Design
- • Drainage Plan with Material Quantities
- $425.00 – Advanced Hardscape Design
- • Outdoor Kitchen, Firepit & Multi-level
- Please Note:
- ▸ Landscape Consultation fee of $200.00 due after walkthrough
- ▸ Half payment due upfront before design work begins
- ▸ 1 Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
- ▸ Remainder of bill will be invoiced separately after design acceptance
- ▸ Pricing is subject to change depending on the complexity of the project
- $1,275.00 – Rendered Master Plan
- • Rendered To Scale Site Plan
- • Planting Plan with Locations & Quantities
- • Plant Identification Sheets
- • Detailed Estimate
- Add-Ons
- $425.00 – 3D Model
- • 3D Model Images & Flythrough
- $300.00 – LED Lighting Design
- • Lighting Plan with Material Quantities
- $300.00 – Drainage Design
- • Drainage Plan with Material Quantities
- $510.00 – Advanced Hardscape Design
- • Outdoor Kitchen, Firepit & Multi-level
- Please Note:
- ▸ Landscape Consultation fee of $200.00 due after walkthrough
- ▸ Half payment due upfront before design work begins
- ▸ 1 Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
- ▸ Remainder of bill will be invoiced separately after design acceptance
- ▸ Pricing is subject to change depending on the complexity of the project
- $1,700.00 – Rendered Master Plan
- • Rendered To Scale Site Plan
- • Planting Plan with Locations & Quantities
- • Plant Identification Sheets
- • Detailed Estimate
- Add-Ons
- $510.00 – 3D Model
- • 3D Model Images & Flythrough
- $340.00 – LED Lighting Design
- • Lighting Plan with Material Quantities
- $340.00 – Drainage Design
- • Drainage Plan with Material Quantities
- $595.00 – Advanced Hardscape Design
- • Outdoor Kitchen, Firepit & Multi-level
- Please Note:
- ▸ Landscape Consultation fee of $200.00 due after walkthrough
- ▸ Half payment due upfront before design work begins
- ▸ 1 Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
- ▸ Remainder of bill will be invoiced separately after design acceptance
- ▸ Pricing is subject to change depending on the complexity of the project
- $2,125.00 – Rendered Master Plan
- • Rendered To Scale Site Plan
- • Planting Plan with Locations & Quantities
- • Plant Identification Sheets
- • Detailed Estimate
- Add-Ons
- $595.00 – 3D Model
- • 3D Model Images & Flythrough
- $400.00 – LED Lighting Design
- • Lighting Plan with Material Quantities
- $400.00 – Drainage Design
- • Drainage Plan with Material Quantities
- $680.00 – Advanced Hardscape Design
- • Outdoor Kitchen, Firepit & Multi-level
- Please Note:
- ▸ Landscape Consultation fee of $200.00 due after walkthrough
- ▸ Half payment due upfront before design work begins
- ▸ 1 Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
- ▸ Remainder of bill will be invoiced separately after design acceptance
- ▸ Projects greater than 1 Acre are billed at $340.00 per 1/4 Acre after the 1st Acre.
- ▸ Pricing is subject to change depending on the complexity of the project
I offer clean, clear and unique designs with your ideas in mind. I pride myself in the ability to work closely with clients to produce the perfect layout, color palette and design elements to bring your concept to life. I will use my creative skills to help you reach a design that fulfills your vision to best represent your goals. My Graphic Design services includes Logo’s, Business Cards, Postcards, Newsletters, Brochures, Vinyl Decals, Pamphlets, PowerPoints, WordPress Websites, Resumes, Infographics, Wayfinding Maps, Portfolios, Letterheads and much, much more. Please give me the opportunity to bring your ideas to life. I currently offer 4 types of Graphic Design Packages, more information about each type can viewed on the tabs above. If you aren’t sure, please use the PROJECT INQUIRY button to the left to describe your project so that I can better assist you.
Basic Graphic Design Pricing = $300.00 (Starting)
- Logo
- Business Card
- Resumes
- Letterheads
1 Free Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
Intermediate Graphic Design Pricing = $500.00 (Starting)
- Postcards
- Newsletters
- Vinyl Decals
- Pamphlets
- Wayfinding Maps
1 Free Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
Advanced Graphic Design Pricing = $1,000.00 (Starting)
- PowerPoint Presentation
- Portfolios
- Newsletters
- Brochures
- Infographics
1 Free Revision Included. Revisions after that are billed at my hourly rate of $85.00 / hour
Web Design Pricing = $2,500.00 (Starting)
Websites are used across many different industries and trades to reach customers for business. I am qualified to help you construct a website that will help you meet your needs, whether you are providing a service, showcasing your skills or selling an item. I can create beautiful portfolios, business websites as well as online stores. I currently develop websites in WordPress, host on 1and1.com and I prefer to use ecwid.com for the backend store. The overall pricing of this service will be dependent on the level of detail and expertise that is required to build the website. A price range will be determined after the initial conversation and more information is obtained regarding the website. Please use the PROJECT INQUIRY button to the left to describe your project so that I can better assist you.
TESTIMONIALS
I called John in need of landscape design for a pool being built later in the year. I had the pool layout, a budget, and a few pictures of pool landscape designs I liked from the internet but not much else. I wanted to turn my backyard into a beautiful and private place for my family to spend time together.
John came out to my home where we spoke in depth on my goals. He listened to all my wants and needs, gave input, and took measurements and pictures of my backyard. Within a week he had a preliminary pool layout design I could share with the pool company. Once approved, he spent less than a week to complete the remaining landscape design. I was really excited and impressed to see the level of detail in his design. All the plants, quantities, drain plans, and measurements were included. I can’t wait to see the design become a reality.
I had many questions during the process and John responded to each of them quickly. This was the first time I ever hired a landscape architect and John made it a great experience for me.
I purchased my home with the intention of turning my backyard into a private oasis. I reached out to John for a landscape design that would provide both form and function. He gathered all my specifications and created a blueprint that was tailored to my needs and my local climate. He provided a beautiful design, included pictures and descriptions of the plants he recommended, and even provided an estimate of what it should cost. His design has increased both my satisfaction with my home and my property value. I would not hesitate to work with him again for future needs.
We were lucky to find someone with John’s tremendous knowledge and expertise to help with our home’s landscape design. I have worked with design professionals all along the east coast from Savannah to NYC for various projects and would easily rate our experience with John to be one of the best. We had a very large project to completely re-imagine our entire exterior. John created a beautiful design and produced a very detailed plan for execution. The only thing we had to do was turn the plan over to the landscapers and watch it come to life. We continue to receive compliments and praise for John’s vision. John has a real talent for listening to and making sure his clients’ views are reflected in his work. We were so pleased with John’s products that engaged him for additional services.
My experience with John Renfroe was very positive. He developed an updated landscape design for my front and back yards including a new drainage and lighting plan as well as the design of a new patio and outdoor kitchen area. His approach to landscape design was creative and thorough. He spent a lot of time listening to our ideas and discussing options. He patiently allowed me and my wife to ask multiple questions and make a fair number of adjustments to the various drafts of the design plan throughout the process. Overall, it was a great experience.
Was recommended to use John for my landscape design by landscape company I am going to use for my backyard. He did a quality job and came back very quickly with a wonderful plan. I’d had other people say they were going to do a design and they kept putting me off and never produced a plan. Very satisfied and excited to put his plan into action!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
CONTACT
Interested in working together?
Please fill out the CONTACT FORM below with some information about your project. If you can’t find the answer to your question in the FAQ, please leave your general questions or comments here as well. Please allow a couple of business days for me to respond.