Frequently Asked Questions

How Can We Assist You?

Find quick answers to common questions about our concierge landscaping services and customizable outdoor solutions.

Who is Scott Byron & Co.?

Scott Byron & Co. is a premier landscape architecture, design, construction, and maintenance firm serving Chicago, Milwaukee, and the surrounding areas. Since 1983, we’ve built a reputation for artistry, craftsmanship, and concierge-level service — transforming properties into lasting legacies.

What makes Scott Byron & Co. different from other landscape companies?

Our philosophy is Art in Harmony with Nature. Every detail — from plant selection to stone placement — is executed by hand with precision. We don’t take shortcuts. We bring together timeless design, horticultural expertise, and world-class service to create outdoor environments that exceed expectations.

Where do you work?

We proudly serve luxury residential and select commercial clients across Chicagoland, the North Shore, Lake Geneva, Milwaukee, and beyond.

What is your design process?

Our Dream-Driven Design process begins with listening. In our initial conversations, we focus on you — your lifestyle, your aspirations, and the way you imagine living outdoors. From there, our designers interpret your vision into a thoughtful plan that balances artistry, functionality, and timeless beauty. Every detail is guided by our philosophy of Art in Harmony with Nature and our R.A.V.E. commitment: Remarkable Service, Attention to Detail, Vision Realized, and Exceeding Expectations.

The process is collaborative, with clear touchpoints so you always feel informed and inspired. By the time the plan is complete, it becomes not just a design, but the foundation for the authentic landscape we’ll bring to life together.

What is included in a landscape design?

Every Scott Byron & Co. design is a reflection of you. There is no template, no “standard package” — only a fully customized plan tailored to your property, lifestyle, and aspirations. In our initial meetings, we listen closely to your vision, priorities, and inspirations. The design we create is our professional interpretation of what you share with us — the first step in transforming your dreams into a living, breathing landscape.

Your plan may include patios, pools, gardens, outdoor kitchens, water features, lighting, irrigation, masonry, or other architectural and horticultural elements. But more importantly, it will be curated to reflect your story. Every detail — from the shape of a pathway to the placement of a single tree — is chosen with intention, ensuring the final design feels authentic, timeless, and uniquely yours.

Do you charge for landscape design?

Yes. Our design work is a professional service that requires significant expertise, creativity, and time. To ensure transparency, we use Design Letters — clear agreements that outline the fee structure, scope of work, and number of revisions included. This eliminates surprises and allows us to dedicate the full measure of our artistry and skill to your project.

Think of it as an investment in the foundation of your landscape — the blueprint that ensures every decision reflects your dream and sets the tone for a successful outcome.

Can you design for existing homes as well as new builds?

Absolutely. Whether you’re enhancing an established property or starting fresh with a new build, our team excels at tailoring designs to your unique situation. For existing homes, we often integrate new ideas into mature landscapes, elevating and reimagining what’s already there. For new builds, we work closely with architects, builders, and interior designers to create seamless indoor–outdoor harmony.

In either case, the result is the same: a design that feels personal, authentic, and enduring — one that reflects your vision and is brought to life with our skills.

What types of construction projects do you handle?

Our construction team brings landscapes to life through an extraordinary range of projects — from stone terraces, garden walls, and pools to outdoor kitchens, pergolas, water features, and entire outdoor living environments. Every project is built on collaboration: your vision, paired with our expertise, executed with precision.

No matter the scale, we focus on craftsmanship and longevity. Each construction detail is thoughtfully considered, ensuring that your space not only looks extraordinary but also functions beautifully for years to come.

Do you self-perform your masonry work?

Whenever possible, we proudly self-perform masonry through our in-house artisans, who specialize in stone, brick, and concrete work with unmatched attention to detail. However, depending on the scale, technical requirements, or specific expertise needed, we may collaborate with trusted masonry partners. In those cases, we oversee the entire process to ensure it meets the Scott Byron & Co. standard.

If you already have a mason under contract, we are more than willing to work seamlessly with them to ensure the finished product reflects your vision and integrates flawlessly into your landscape.

How do you manage complex construction projects?

Large-scale, multi-phase projects are our specialty. We have decades of experience coordinating with architects, builders, and interior designers to manage every detail — budgets, timelines, subcontractors, and materials. Our dedicated project managers ensure the process runs smoothly, while our artisans focus on the details that make each project extraordinary.

Clients often tell us that what sets us apart is not just the final product, but the journey itself: transparent communication, proactive problem-solving, and a team that makes the process feel effortless.

How do you ensure quality during construction?

Every construction project is carefully supervised by experienced managers who maintain daily oversight of craftsmanship, safety, and schedule. Unlike many firms, we never compromise quality for speed. From the placement of a stone to the grading of soil, every decision reflects our commitment to durability, aesthetics, and the client’s vision.

Our clients can expect a process rooted in active listening, adaptability, and accountability. It’s your dream, and our skills ensure the end result is not just a structure, but a lasting legacy.

Can you build features beyond landscaping, such as pools or outdoor kitchens?

Yes. Many of our projects include pools, spas, outdoor kitchens, fire features, pavilions, and other lifestyle-driven amenities. We specialize in integrating these elements seamlessly into the overall landscape so they feel intentional, not added on. This holistic approach creates outdoor environments that look beautiful, function perfectly, and invite you to live fully in your space.

Do you offer outdoor lighting design?

Yes. Our lighting experts craft elegant systems that enhance beauty, improve safety, and extend enjoyment of your landscape after dark.y considered, ensuring that your space not only looks extraordinary but also functions beautifully for years to come.

What types of irrigation systems do you install?

We design and install a full range of irrigation systems, from traditional to smart options such as Hydrawise. While we prefer smart systems for efficiency, we tailor every installation to the client’s needs.

Do you service existing irrigation systems?

Yes. We inspect, adjust, and maintain all types of irrigation systems to ensure proper coverage and efficiency.

What does a comprehensive maintenance program include?

Maintenance is where artistry meets stewardship. At Scott Byron & Co., our maintenance programs are custom-tailored to protect, nurture, and elevate your landscape through every season. We don’t simply “maintain” — we cultivate.

Your program may include hand-pruning, lawn and turf management, plant health care, mulching, edging, irrigation oversight, and ongoing enhancements. Seasonal color displays, holiday décor, and proactive monitoring are all part of ensuring your property remains vibrant year-round. Every action is intentional, performed by hand with precision, and guided by our philosophy of Art in Harmony with Nature.

This isn’t routine yard care. It’s the concierge-level stewardship of your outdoor environment, where each detail is handled with the same devotion and artistry you’d expect inside your home.

How often will your team visit my property?

Your maintenance schedule is fully customized to the rhythm of your property and your lifestyle. Some clients prefer weekly visits to keep every detail pristine, while others request bi-weekly or seasonal care. As your landscape grows and matures, our approach adapts — ensuring the right level of care at the right time, always.

How do you adapt care throughout the year?

Seasons are the heartbeat of a landscape. In spring, we encourage growth; in summer, we refine and sustain; in fall, we prepare and protect; and in winter, we ensure resilience. Our maintenance programs evolve with each shift, adjusting everything from pruning and planting to irrigation and turf management.

This seasonal responsiveness is what keeps landscapes not just alive, but thriving — vibrant, healthy, and beautiful in every moment of the year.

Do you offer a warranty on your work?

Yes. Our Warranty Program provides peace of mind by covering the materials and craftsmanship of your installed landscape for a defined period. We stand behind the artistry of our work, ensuring that your investment is not only protected but continues to deliver beauty and value for years to come.

Do you provide seasonal color and holiday décor?

Absolutely. From spring bulbs and lush summer planters to autumn arrangements and festive holiday trees, our team curates displays that reflect the character of your property and the spirit of each season. Wreaths, garlands, and custom installations are designed to harmonize with your home and elevate every occasion.

How do you handle unexpected issues in the landscape?

Responsiveness is one of the hallmarks of our service. Whether it’s storm damage, a plant health concern, or a last-minute request before a major event, our team responds quickly, communicates clearly, and resolves challenges with efficiency and care. Clients often tell us that this level of attentiveness is what makes us feel like more than a service provider — we are true partners in the care of their home.

What makes Scott Byron & Co.’s maintenance different from others?

Our maintenance is rooted in craftsmanship, concierge service, and a genuine commitment to your dream. Every property is cared for by skilled professionals who hand-prune, handcraft, and hand-curate each detail. We actively listen, adapt as needs evolve, and anticipate changes before they arise.

As Scott often says: “It’s your dream, and our skills that deliver that authentic product.” Maintenance is where that philosophy comes alive every week, every season, every year.

Do you maintain properties you didn’t design?

Yes. We review the existing plan (or document the design intent) and tailor a maintenance program to your goals.

Can you refresh plantings without a full redesign?

Absolutely. Our enhancement plans introduce seasonal color, replace underperformers, and improve structure while preserving the original look.

Do you offer snow services?

We focus on year-round landscape stewardship (design, construction, maintenance) and coordinate winter planning; snow services are not part of this program.

Do you provide a warranty on plant material and installations?

Yes. We stand behind our work. Our warranty program covers plant material and installations provided they are cared for under a Scott Byron & Co. maintenance contract. This ensures that every plant receives the proper attention—watering, pruning, and monitoring—so the landscape thrives as intended.

How often will crews visit?

Visit cadence is customized to your property’s needs and seasonality, from weekly detailing to focused monthly care.

How does Scott Byron & Co. approach sustainability?

We thoughtfully integrate sustainable practices into our designs, from native planting to smart irrigation and eco-friendly materials. While luxury and artistry drive our work, we believe sustainability adds long-term value to your landscape.

Do you use eco-conscious equipment?

Yes. We incorporate environmentally friendly equipment, battery-operated tools, and sustainable systems where appropriate.

How do I start a project with Scott Byron & Co.?

Simply reach out via our website or call us directly. One of our team members will schedule a consultation to understand your vision and recommend next steps.

What size projects do you take on?

Our projects range from full-property design-build transformations to long-term maintenance programs. We specialize in mid-tier to large-scale luxury landscapes.

Do you work with architects and designers?

Yes. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do. We frequently partner with leading architects, builders, and interior designers to deliver cohesive environments.

Can you provide references or examples of past work?

Yes. Please visit our online gallery to explore completed projects or ask us for references.

How do you ensure quality?

All work is performed by skilled artisans and horticultural experts. Supervisors oversee every project, and ownership is actively involved to ensure excellence.

How responsive is Scott Byron & Co.?

Our clients value communication as much as craftsmanship. From the moment you contact us, you’ll experience timely responses, clear communication, and a dedicated team that’s always accessible. Whether it’s a quick question about plant care or a major design decision, we pride ourselves on being available and attentive.

How do you adapt to client needs throughout a project?

Every client and property is unique. We approach each project with flexibility, adapting designs, timelines, and details as your needs evolve. If something changes mid-project — whether it’s scope, style, or even lifestyle priorities — we respond seamlessly to ensure the final product still reflects your vision.

How do you ensure my voice is heard during the process?

Active listening is the foundation of our work. Our designers and project managers invest time to understand not only what you want, but why you want it. We ask thoughtful questions, translate your ideas into design solutions, and make sure every decision honors your goals.

What does “concierge-level service” really mean?

It means we go beyond landscaping. From start to finish, every detail — design, construction, and maintenance — is handled with white-glove care. We anticipate needs, solve challenges before they arise, and create a seamless, worry-free experience so you can enjoy your outdoor environment without stress.

How does Scott Byron’s philosophy shape the client experience?

As Scott often says, “It’s your dream, and our skills that deliver that authentic product.” We see ourselves as stewards of your vision. Our role is to bring artistry, craftsmanship, and expertise to your ideas, ensuring the final landscape feels personal, timeless, and authentically yours.

How do you measure client satisfaction?

We believe our success is measured in how much our clients R.A.V.E. — Remarkable Service, Attention to Detail, Vision Realized, and Exceeding Expectations. Beyond surveys and testimonials, we build long-term relationships where clients return to us year after year and refer us to friends and family. That loyalty speaks louder than any award.