Overview

EarthView Design provides its expertise on all phases of a project, from initial consultation through design and implementation. Our approach is to blend ecologically sound and thoughtful design with thorough and knowledgeable installation. Shawn personally oversees each step of every project to ensure that the client's desires and needs are fulfilled. We strive to emphasize the wonderful aspects of a property and convert problem areas into positive elements.

Only the highest quality plants, hardscape and water feature materials are utilized to ensure low maintenance, long lasting and problem free results. Where appropriate, we use native plant materials that highlight and celebrate the natural identity and character of New England. Our projects range from expansive estates in rural settings to small, urban spaces. We specialize in wildlife habitat creation and ecological restoration in both rural and urban settings. Each project is a unique opportunity to attract and protect wildlife, and we register most of our properties as Certified Backyard Wildlife Habitats with the National Wildlife Federation.

It is our wholehearted belief that outdoor spaces are integral to the happiness and enrichment of life.

Our services

• Landscape design and construction including, but limited to:
• Outdoor living spaces
• Water features including ponds, waterfalls, streams and fountains
• All types of gardens including Zen, culinary (vegetable and herb), perennial, healing, medicinal, woodland and container
• Certified Backyard Wildlife Habitats
• Stone and retaining walls
• Patios, walkways and driveways
• Pools, fences and decks
• Master planning
• Conservation and Land Use Planning
• Land development, site planning and feasibility studies
• Environmental services including:
  • Wetland delineations, permitting and restoration
  • Transaction Screens and Phase I Environmental Site Assessments
  • Vernal pool identification and certification
  • Vegetation and wildlife surveys
• EcoAdventures in Costa Rica

EarthView Design is wholly committed to understanding our clients' styles and desires and working closely with them to make their dreams become reality.

The Process

Initial Evaluation: Shawn talks with the client on the phone to determine the parameters of the project and time lines. The client is asked to provide a "wish list" of ideas and any site plans they have available prior to an on-site meeting. Shawn then walks the property with the client in order to understand his/her objectives and desires and to outline what needs to be done. Photographs and rough measurements/sketches are typically part of this meeting. A proposal is drafted to include the scope of work and services to be performed. Services can range from a short consultation to a complete land development and construction undertaking. This initial evaluation, as well as the proposal, is typically provided at no cost. Once the goals and vision of the project are clearly defined and the proposal is signed, the exciting design/build journey begins.

Analysis: Integral to a successful design/build process is the analysis of the site for numerous characteristics, often including:

• Sun/shade
• Soil
• Slope
• Drainage
• Microclimates
• Human needs and uses
• Circulation and access
• Sightlines/Views
• Existing architecture and site elements
• Vegetation
• Context of neighbors, area and surroundings

It is imperative to establish this baseline of existing conditions to move forward effectively and efficiently.

Design Development: The level of complexity for a design depends upon the project, size, scope, budget and property characteristics. EarthView Design provides designs from rough, simple, field sketches to complex, multi-paged studies and formal plan sets.

Typically, a preliminary design is drafted and another meeting is held to review and revise the conceptual plan. Some projects will move from this point directly to construction, while others will require a more detailed and refined final plan.

Implementation: After the design is agreed upon by the client and designer, a finalized proposal is issued and the installation begins. Shawn personally oversees and participates in the construction process with the EVD team and, if appropriate, selected contractors and craftsmen.

This devoted involvement and attention to detail ensures an accurate and efficient installation process. EVD addresses questions, concerns and changes as they arise in order to cultivate the project vision into a completed landscape.

EcoAdventures in Costa Rica

Ecotourism is responsible and sustainable travel to natural areas which conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local peoples. Of all the places Shawn has traveled throughout the world, none has captured his spirit and heart more than Costa Rica. Since 2003, Shawn has served as a guide in order to share the natural wonders of this biologically diverse part of the planet with individuals, couples, families and groups of all sizes.

If you enjoy breath-taking landscapes, learning about tropical ecology, observing exotic plants and animals and exposure to new cultures and people, than an EcoAdventure is for you. EarthView Design custom designs trips to some of the world's most beautiful and wild places in Costa Rica. The combination of EarthView's naturalist experience and support of sustainable practices make for an unforgettable journey that helps to preserve and improve the natural areas visited. Trips are designed around your interests and objectives featuring:

• Beaches
• Hiking
• Wildlife and bird viewing
• Waterfalls
• Volcanoes and hot springs
• Jungle, rain forest and cloud forest
• Snorkeling, kayaking, rafting, fishing and water sports
• Local festivals
• Art, food and culture
• Ecological education

All EcoAdventures cause minimal environmental disturbance while supporting local economies and conserving natural resources. Costa Rica is known as the Switzerland of Central America due to its low crime rate, economic stability and high growth rate. This translates into an experience distinct from the modern world without the danger and sadness of poverty stricken destinations. Our goal is to share with you the amazing sights, places and experiences of Costa Rica in the safest and most cost effective manner, while having a positive impact on the people and their lands.