Good design is the foundation of any project, but great design is not just a pretty picture.  It is a combination of a lot of invisible things.  A great design fits the customers needs, is functional to the end user, realistic to install, within an agreed upon budget, uses attainable plants and finishes and most of all is loved and cherished by the client.  Clients often ask what is my design style?  I say, every design is different and should be neatly tailored to each homeowner.  Ultimately, when the job is done, the client is the one there to live and breathe it.  A  job well done is one where the client is ecstatic about their new landscape because it was neatly tailored just for them.