Landscape design is an artful and scientific practice of designing outdoor spaces. It involves the use of various elements such as natural resources, plants, stones and hardscapes in order to create aesthetically pleasing designs that are both functional and sustainable. Landscaping is a process of creating or improving upon existing landscapes with the intention of enhancing its beauty or utility, while also preserving its ecological integrity. Landscape architecture is a professional field within landscape design that focuses on planning and designing larger scale projects such as parks, gardens, residential areas and other public spaces. Landscape planning encompasses the entire process from start to finish including site analysis, development plans, cost estimates and implementation schedules. A landscape contractor typically completes the installation of any landscaping project according to specifications provided by a landscape architect or designer.