Landscape Renovation vs. Landscaping from Scratch – What’s the Difference?

Jul 04, 2025

Whether you're planning to refresh an existing yard or designing one from the ground up, it’s important to understand the key differences between landscape renovation and landscaping from scratch. Both approaches can enhance the beauty, functionality, and value of your outdoor space, but the process, planning, and investment involved can vary greatly.

In this blog, we’ll explore the main differences between these two services and help you decide which is the right choice for your property. Plus, if you're looking for landscape & design services in Lakeland New Jersey, or professional New Jersey landscaping experts, we’ll share insights on what to expect from the pros.

What Is Landscape Renovation?

Landscape renovation refers to updating, improving, or modifying an existing landscape. This doesn’t involve starting from scratch, but rather working with the current layout and elements—like patios, lawns, garden beds, or walkways—to enhance or modernize the space.

Common goals of landscape renovation include:

Replacing overgrown or outdated plants
Fixing drainage or irrigation issues
Installing new lighting, seating, or garden features
Updating the layout for better flow or accessibility
Refreshing hardscape areas like patios or retaining walls

Landscape renovation is ideal when the basic structure of your yard is functional, but you want a fresh look or improved usability. It's typically faster and more budget-friendly than a full rebuild.

What Is Landscaping from Scratch?

Landscaping from scratch means designing and building an entirely new outdoor space, often starting with bare soil. This is usually necessary for:

New home builds with no prior landscaping
Properties that have undergone major construction or demolition
Yards are in such poor condition that renovation isn't practical

This process typically involves:

Grading and preparing the land
Designing a complete landscape layout
Installing irrigation systems, drainage, and lighting
Planting trees, shrubs, turf, and other greenery
Building patios, pathways, fences, and other hardscape elements

Landscaping from scratch gives you complete creative freedom to shape the yard exactly how you envision it—but it also requires a larger time and budget commitment.

Key Differences Between Landscape Renovation and Landscaping from Scratch

Landscape Renovation:

1. Works with the existing landscape structure.

2. Generally more affordable than starting from scratch.

3. Typically completed in a shorter timeframe (days to a few weeks).

4. Limited design flexibility based on current layout and features.

5. Ideal for homeowners looking to refresh or upgrade their current yard.

Landscaping from Scratch:

1. Involves designing and building a brand-new outdoor space.

2. Requires more investment in terms of time, budget, and labor.

3. Offers complete design freedom and customization.

4. Often takes several weeks to months to complete.

5. Best suited for new home builds or yards in poor condition.

Why Location Matters: Landscaping in Lakeland New Jersey

Whether you choose to renovate or build from scratch, working with local professionals is crucial—especially in regions like Lakeland New Jersey where climate, soil, and seasonal changes must be factored into the design.

Experienced New Jersey landscaping companies understand local plant varieties, zoning laws, and drainage concerns. They’ll help you create a sustainable and visually appealing landscape that thrives year-round.

How Landscape & Design Services Can Help

Professional landscape & design services provide the expertise and tools to bring your vision to life—no matter the scope of your project. They can:

1. Evaluate your current landscape’s condition

2. Recommend whether renovation or full landscaping is better

3. Create detailed designs and renderings

4. Source high-quality materials and plants

5. Handle all installation and maintenance tasks

Whether you're upgrading a small backyard or designing a large property from the ground up, a trusted team makes all the difference.

Conclusion: Which One Do You Need?

If your existing yard has good bones and you're looking to refresh its appearance, landscape renovation is likely your best bet. If you're starting with a blank canvas or need a major overhaul, then landscaping from scratch will give you more control and long-term results.

No matter your choice, investing in quality landscape & design services in Lakeland New Jersey ensures your outdoor space is not only beautiful—but also functional, durable, and tailored to your lifestyle.