FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions - How much will my Dream Landscaping cost?
1. What services does Syracuse Lightscapes provide?
Syracuse Lightscapes specializes in custom outdoor living environments, landscape design, and architectural lighting.
Our services include:
Landscape design and full project management
Outdoor lighting and control systems
Hardscapes: patios, walkways, retaining walls, and driveways
Masonry: natural stone and cultured stone installations
Pool design and complete backyard resort construction
Outdoor kitchens, bars, and fire features
Custom pergolas, pavilions, and covered outdoor structures
Irrigation, drainage, and grading
Landscape planting and low-maintenance installations
Permeable paving and concrete driveways
Seasonal service and lighting maintenance
We create turnkey outdoor environments that are functional, luxurious, and tailored to your lifestyle.
2. How does your design and build process work?
We follow a structured design–build approach to ensure precision, creativity, and accountability:
Initial Consultation & Site Visit – We discuss your goals, vision, budget, and site conditions.
Concept & Design Development – Our team prepares detailed plans and 3D renderings.
Budget Proposal & Revisions – We provide a transparent cost breakdown with materials, labor, taxes, and markups clearly shown.
Permitting & Scheduling – We handle all municipal coordination, permits, and engineering if needed.
Construction & Installation – Our certified, in-house crews execute every detail with care and craftsmanship.
Final Walkthrough & Warranty – We inspect every element and offer ongoing service plans for lighting and seasonal maintenance.
3. How much do outdoor projects cost?
Every project is custom-built, but here’s a realistic range of what our clients typically invest with Syracuse Lightscapes:
Design & Planning
2D Concept Design : No Charge
3D Concept Design : $500 – $3,500+
Full Landscape Master Plan with Engineering: $3,000 – $10,000
Lighting Systems
Architectural & Landscape Lighting Packages: $4,000 – $25,000
Driveway, Path, and Tree Lighting: $3,000 – $15,000+
Smart Control & Zoning System add on: $1,000 – $5,000
Hardscapes & Masonry
Paver or Natural Stone Patios: $20,000 – $150,000
Walkways & Front Entrance Hardscape: $5,000 – $50,000
Segmental Retaining Walls: $40-80 / Facial Square Foot.
Boulder Retaining Walls: $40-70 / Facial Square Foot
Wood Burning Firepit $4,000 – $7,000
Gas Firepit $7,000 – $14,000
Outdoor Fireplaces $7,000 – $25,000
Seat wall with 2 Pillars - $7,000-12,000.00
Stone Mailbox Pillar with Light - $8,000-12,000.00
Outdoor Kitchens & Structures
Custom Outdoor Kitchen Island / Structure: $10,000 – $25,000
Pergolas, Pavilions & Covered Structures: $15,000 – $80,000
Bar Seating/ Stone Counters $4,000-8,000.00
Appliances: $5,000 – $20,000
Pools, Water Features & Resort Builds
Liner In-ground Pool $40,000 - $90,000
Fiberglass In-ground Pool $50,000 - $110,000
Gunite In-ground Pool $100,000 - $220,000
Complete Extensive Poolscape (pool paving with cantilever coping, lighting, fencing, plantings, walls): $150,000 – $500,000
Moderate Poolscape (pool paving, coping, fencing, minimal plantings): $75,000 – $125,000
Built in Waterslides with Boulder Steps and Rock Retaining Walls $30,000 – $60,000
Rock Waterfalls: $15,000 – $30,000
Swim-Up Bars: $50,000 – $80,000
Spas, Bubblers, and Laminar Jets: $5,000 – $25,000
Pondless Waterfalls or Fountains: $6,000 – $30,000
Pool Houses: $60,000 – $300,000
Pool Sheds: $30,000 – $60,000
Irrigation, Drainage & Grading
Downspout tie ins to underground and typical surface drains: $3,000 - $6,000
Complete Lawn Irrigation System: $5,000 – $20,000
Foundation or Surface Drainage: $3,000 – $25,000
Full Site Regrading & Excavation: $3,000 – $30,000
Maintenance & Service Work
Spring & Fall Cleanups: $75/Man Hour
Lighting Maintenance & Re-Aiming: $250 – $2,500 annually
Irrigation System Start-Up/Winterization: $250 – $800 annually
Seasonal Planting or Mulching Packages: $75/Man Hour plus Materials
Snow & Ice Management (for select clients): No Longer Offered
Construction / Carpentry Rate : $95/Man Hour
Note: Final estimates vary based on site conditions, access, and customization level.
4. How long do projects take?
Project duration depends on size, complexity, and permitting:
Design Phase: 2–6 weeks
Permitting & Scheduling: 2–4 weeks
Construction:
Small lighting or patio projects: 2–4 weeks
Medium outdoor living spaces: 4–8 weeks
Large-scale poolscapes or full properties: 3–6 months
We prioritize quality, sequencing, and weather protection — ensuring long-lasting results rather than rushed work.
5. How far are you usually booked out?
Our schedule varies by season:
Design consultations are typically available within 2–4 weeks.
Construction start dates are typically booked 8–16 weeks out, depending on project size and time of year.
To reserve your place in our upcoming seasons build schedule, we recommend starting the design process in late fall or winter.
6. Do you handle permits and engineering?
Yes — we manage all necessary permits, stamped drawings, grading plans, and inspections.
We work with licensed engineers and code officials to ensure your project meets all municipal and structural requirements.
7. What makes Syracuse Lightscapes different?
Certified Professionals: Our team includes ISA Certified Arborists, ICPI, NCMA, Belgard Authorized, and Techo-Pro Certified installers.
Unmatched Experience: Our crews bring hundreds of years of combined experience across landscape construction, masonry, lighting, and design.
Complex Projects Expertise: We excel in waterfront builds, pool environments, steep grades, and high-end custom details.
Turnkey Execution: Everything from design to final lighting aim is handled by our in-house experts, not subcontractors.
Award-Winning Designs: Our creative, durable work enhances property value and lifestyle for years to come.
8. Do you offer maintenance and service plans?
Yes, we offer custom maintenance programs to protect your investment year-round:
Lighting adjustments, cleaning, and bulb replacement
Irrigation inspection and seasonal adjustments
Patio, wall, and masonry cleaning or sealing
Seasonal planting and bed maintenance
Snow removal and off-season checks - Snow plowing no longer offered
Our goal is to keep your property looking as stunning as the day it was completed.
9. How do I get started?
Getting started is easy:
Call or email our office to schedule an on-site consultation.
We’ll discuss your vision, budget, and timeline.
Our design team will guide you through the process from concept to completion.
📍 5948 Butternut Drive, East Syracuse, NY 13057
📞 315-751-0540
✉️ contact@syracuselightscapes.com