Studying The Site. The piece of land you live on is generally referred to as the site. Ideally the selection of the site, placement and design of the house and the landscape development should all be done at the same time. Selecting a site without having some idea of the type of house and landscape development you want would be difficult.

Go back to the base plan of the yard design you prepared in step one. Look closely at the problems and opportunities of your particular site. Tape a piece of tracing paper over the plot and prepare a rough sketch:

• Indicate major views from the inside looking out as
  well as the view on the site itself. Determine whether
  they are good or bad (for example: a direct view of
  the neighbor's trash or an open field of wildflowers).

• Show exposure to summer breezes as well as winter
  winds. Also, indicate where you need shade.

• Indicate drainage patterns and slope of the land.
  Also, note any problems such as areas where water
  stands or needs to be redirected.

• Note the soil type and approximate depth, and have
  your soil tested. (For further information on soil
  testing procedures, contact your county Extension
  office.)

• Remove your tracing paper rough sketch and record
  this information as neatly as possible on your yard design base plan.

Now Let's draw a diagram.....