So you’ve done your brainstorming, its now time to head outside and do a site analysis. This includes a thorough walk through of the yard and taking notes of everything that needs to be removed, or needs to stay, as well as taking measurements and photos of the yard as it is.
I am going to assume you have a site plan that shows the position of the buildings and the dimensions of the property boundaries. If not your first step should be to contact your local government office and get a copy of it. Some local governments have this information on their websites. I would recommend contacting them to find out. This will save you hours of painstaking work measuring off and positioning the buildings.
Once you have a list complete of everything that will be removed you will need to flag the larger plants and trees with a strip of colourful stretchy tape or string.
Now take triangulated measurements of the trees and plants that will remain. To do this find two stationary consistent points in the landscape (The corners of the house or an outbuilding, if it is to stay in the plan, or possibly a fence post along the property boundary) and measure from these points to the tree or shrub.
On another sheet paper, could be graph paper, but is not necessary, roughly sketch out the property. Mark all areas that are in shade, partial shade and in full sun. Using a compass, establish where North is, and lastly draw lines in the direction of any slopes in the land. If it is a significant elevation change I would recommend taking a measurement of the height as well.
Just a note: This will take more than one person to complete. Get the family involved and give them ownership of the new landscape.