What is involved in the master plan step of landscape design?

The master plan step of landscape design is crucial as it involves the refinement of the preliminary design. During this phase, designers take the foundational ideas developed earlier and enhance them based on further analysis, feedback, and additional considerations such as site conditions, client needs, and aesthetic preferences. This stage is essential for creating a comprehensive and coherent layout that effectively integrates various elements like plant selection, hardscapes, and functionality.

By focusing on refining the preliminary design, the master plan ensures that all aspects of the landscape work harmoniously together, considering not just beauty but also practicality, sustainability, and maintenance. The process may include adjusting plant selections, re-evaluating space allocation, and making sure that the plan aligns with budget constraints to create a viable and realistic plan moving forward.

The other options do not adequately represent what the master plan entails. Immediate execution of the design skips critical planning steps, while removal of all existing plants does not reflect the design refinement process. Finalizing the budget alone lacks the comprehensive approach needed in the master planning stage, which is about developing and solidifying the overall design vision rather than just financial considerations.