As part of an effort to improve water drainage on a small property (as part of the Front Yard Initiative in New Orleans), we requested several bids from landscape contractors. We were very clear about trying to keep the project simple, possibly removing excess concrete and replacing with a few water-friendly plants and some gravel. We consulted with several contractors, most of whom were helpful and honest about what we could accomplish within our budget.
Matthew Ponsetti agreed to look at the property and come up with a plan. He indicated he charged a fee for this consultation, which would be applied to the project. After a site visit, he submitted a plan that was way over our stated budget, and complete overkill for the project. It did not fit our needs, nor was it appropriate for the neighborhood. After a request to modify the design, he simply eliminated a few plants, with a minimal price adjustment.
We figured he really didn't want the job, and was accustomed to much more sophisticated design work than our project would afford him. But that didn't prevent him from billing us $275 for a design we didn't ask for, and that did not fit our needs or budget. Other contractors were more helpful and honest about how we could approach our project.
In sum, I only recommend contacting him if you have a large budget and a need for an elaborate design, and don't mind paying a fee for a design that may be useless. I gave him two stars because he actually did come to the property for a site visit, and I realize his time is worth something. I cannot comment on the quality of his work.
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