Clients wanted for Landscape Design and Contracting student capstone projects

Need a landscape designer to draw up a new xeriscape plan to replace your front lawn, or maybe you’re looking to create a backyard oasis? Colorado State University’s Landscape Design and Contracting program might be able to help. 

Students in the program are seeking clients in the CSU community and beyond to partner with them on projects for their capstone course. 

The design projects are geared to benefit both students and community members, said Landscape Design and Contracting Program Coordinator Chris Tragakes. 

Students gain real-world experience creating landscape plans using all previous coursework, and working with their professor, who will oversee and evaluate each project, Tragakes said. Students are well prepared to meet with clients to formulate plans that can be completed by the clients or by their landscape contractors. 

For several decades, the nationally recognized CSU Landscape Design and Contracting students have partnered with members of the community to complete designs of all scales, including small residential enhancements to large estates.


Project fees

Projects will be broken into two categories. Those expected to be 10,000 square feet or smaller will have a fee of $350. Those larger than 10,000 square feet will have a fee of $600. Fees for projects beyond this size will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 

All fees associated with the projects help students travel to the annual National Collegiate Landscape Competition, where they can meet with professionals in the field and secure internships or employment after graduation.


How can I contact students?

Projects must be completed by the end of finals week, May 12. Questions or interest in hiring students for work can be sent to Chris Tragakes (chris.tragakes@colostate.edu). 

For more information on the Landscape Design and Contracting Program, visit our Instagram page: @landscape_csu or LinkedIn page: Colorado State University Landscape Design and Contracting Program.