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

Columbus Regional Flythrough2021-03-10T22:49:46-05:00
Down to Earth Landscaping Office2021-08-10T22:28:41-04:00

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

PHOTOSHOP 80%
SKETCHUP 85%
HAND GRAPHICS 80%
AUTOCAD 70%
WORDPRESS 75%

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

PLANNING 100%
COMMUNICATION 85%
TEAM PLAYER 95%
COMMITMENT 100%
LEADERSHIP 90%

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.

LANDSCAPE CONSULTATION

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

GRAPHIC DESIGN

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.

Brandon T., Columbus, Georgia

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.

Nicholas P., Madison, Mississippi

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.

Alex C., Columbus, Georgia

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.

Fred M., Columbus, Georgia

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!

Anne D., Columbus, Georgia

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I know, a lot of my services can start to overlap and can cause confusion sometimes.  Landscape Architecture is a vast field with many possibility, so please use the CONTACT FORM below to tell me a little more about your project.   Please provide as much detail about your project as you can.  I can better assist you and point you to the right direction with better details.

I tend to get the most inquiries about “the word that must not be spoken”, the BUDGET!  Everyone has a budget, whether it is $1,000 or $100,000.  A general idea can go a long way in me better assisting you.

To get an idea of how much your Landscape Design will cost please visit FindMyLotSize.  Once at the site, please type in your address and allow the website to take you to your property.  Once at the map, please zoom into your property.  While holding shift, begin outlining your property.  Once you have completed the outline, on the left side of the page a rough estimate of your property size is generated.  This should provide you would an idea of how much your Landscape Design will cost.

*Please note, I round up to the nearest 1/4 acre.  For example, 0.38 Acre = 1/2 Acre Package.

Landscape Consultation:  3-5 Business Days

Landscape Design: 10-14 Business Days*

Graphic Design: 10-14 Business Days

*Please note that these services can drastically range in complexity resulting in times that differ than the above stated times.  Landscape Architecture is a very seasonal business.  With that said, during the Spring and Summer months I often times get backed up with work.  To alleviate any concerns, I will discuss a timeline with you during our Initial Consultation and layout the best case scenario for when you will receive your final product.

If you still require assistance after the 2 hours my hourly rate applies which is $85.00 / hour.

All design packages include a digital copy.  I will provide a Dropbox link to your files that is available for download for 30 days.

Time and experience in the field of Landscape Architecture has aided me in generating the pricing guidelines in the “Services” section of this website.  While I strive to stick to the pricing set forth on this website, please know, every project is different and some projects may require more time than allotted to achieve your desired results.  In the rare cases this does happen, I will discuss why I believe this to be true and all of the options moving forward.  You, the client, will understand in complete detail what services are being rendered before any work begins if it deviates from the pricing provided on this website.

While I do everything in my power to select plants that will grow in your location, I offer NO guarantee on your vegetation.   My Landscape Architecture background aids me in selecting “The Right Plant for the Right Place”.  This thought process requires me to think about color ,size, height, spread, bloom time and hardiness zone.  I have lived in the South my entire life and I understand weather patterns as well as heat, rain, drought, insects and diseases associated with our crazy climate.  I strive to select hardy, well established plants from reputable growers that have a long track record of production high quality plants.

Typically I allow 1 month (3o days) to submit all revisions.  All revisions must be submitted at the same time.

I currently accept payment through Cash App, Venmo, Zelle, check and cash.

I currently use Cash App, Venmo and Zelle to handle all of my payments.  I do not have access nor do I store any of your personal information.

At this time I do NOT offer payment plans.

$200.00 is due upon completion of the Initial Consultation walkthrough.  Depending on your service the remainder of your bill will be due before your items are released to you.

Your Landscape Design and all associated plans, estimates, reports, sketches, etc. are all property of John Renfroe until your balance is paid in full.  All Landscape Designs include a commitment of half the projects cost to begin work.  This fee does NOT constitute any claim to work related to your project until your balance is paid in full.  After the Final Design Package is presented, John Renfroe will retain the documents until your balance is paid in full.  Once payment is complete your Design Package will be delivered to you.  At this time all documents and plans are released to you to use as you see fit to complete your project.

Failure to make final payment after 6 months or 180 days will result in your debt being filed with the Columbus Georgia Magistrate Court (Small Claims Court).  You, the Client, are responsible for final payment, all fees associated with small claims court and 10% interested accrued monthly on the final invoice amount.

As a professional I respect your time and I do not take that lightly.  I will do everything in my capability to not miss our scheduled meeting and expect the same courtesy in return.  I understand emergencies happen, if that happens please alert me as soon as possible of a necessary cancellation so we can reschedule your appointment.

My current service areas are Columbus, Georgia, Smiths Station, Alabama and Phenix City, Alabama.  I am happy to drive to any location but my hourly rate will apply to drive time, to and from, your site.  My hourly rate is $85.00 / hour.

A complete list of all services I provide are as follows:

Landscape
• 3D Models
• Annual Bed Design
• Annual Planter Arrangements
• Contract Audit & Update Consultation
• Drainage Design
• Fertilizer & Maintenance Schedules
• Hand Rendered Master Plan
• Hardscape Design
• Landscape Site Plan Details
• Lighting Design
• Patio Styling Consultation
• Perspectives
• Plant & Bed Layout Consultation
• Planting Plans
• Rain Garden Design
• Raised Vegetable Gardens
• Sections & Elevations
• Trimming & Pruning Consultation
Arborist
• Tree Appraisal Report
• Tree Consultation
• Tree Health Report
• Tree Inventory Report
• Tree Protection Plan
Graphic Design
• Brochures
• Business Cards
• Flyers
• Infographics
• Letterhead
• Logos
• Newsletters
• Pamphlets
• Portfolios
• Postcard/Mailers
• PowerPoint Presentations
• Resumes
• Vinyl Decals
• Wayfinding Maps
• Websites

References are available upon request.  Please submit your inquiry through the Contact Form and I happy to provide a list of satisfied clients I have worked with in the past.

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.

CONTACT FORM