The Garden Design Process

Initial Consultation

We arrange to meet up to view your garden, to discuss your requirements and budget. This meeting usually takes about an hour and forms the basis of a design brief. A quotation of my fees will be sent to you.

Survey and Site Analysis

Following the initial consultation a survey will be undertaken of the proposed site/garden.  A site inventory of existing planting may be taken along with soil samples. We will usually undertake the survey but for larger projects and projects with complex changes in levels, a Land Surveyor will be commissioned.

Outline Design Plan

• The outline plan is based on our discussions, the survey and the design brief.  It sets out the proposals for the garden, including areas of hard landscaping and planting. The plan is hand drawn to scale and coloured.  It will be discussed with you and any agreed minor amendments would be made at this stage. For larger projects a Master Plan can be provided where work can be undertaken in phases over a number of years, if required.

• Final Garden Layout Plan

After finalising the outline plan the garden layout plan is drawn up. This shows the position of all of the main features of the garden and details of how the garden is to be set out and constructed. It may be accompanied by a written report and forms the basis for the contractor to build the garden from.

Construction of the Garden

We can arrange for contractors to build your garden for you by suggesting well established, tried and tested professional landscape contractors.   Alternatively, you may wish to manage the garden build yourself.

• Project monitoring - We can obtain quotations from contractors on your behalf, if you would like the project monitored.   For an agreed fee, additional visits can be made to the site on a regular basis during construction.  This can help to ensure that work is being carried out in accordance with the design.

Construction Drawings - can be provided if required and necessary.  These are separate detailed drawings of special structures within the garden (i.e. brick walls, pergolas, terraces and water features).

Planting Plans

After construction of the garden we will  provide planting plans, again drawn to scale, detailing the botanical name of each plant, their positions, spacing for planting and quantities required.   A planting schedule listing in order the sizes and number of plants required can also be provided. This schedule assists with the ordering and supply of planting.

Plant Supply and Planting - plants are sourced from reputable nurseries and supplied on your behalf.  We oversee delivery, set out the plants on site and arrange for them to be planted.

• Planting Plans Only - we can provide you with a planting plan only service if you require plans for borders but do not necessarily require the garden redesigned as a whole.  A postal service is also available.  Please call for further details.
  

Aftercare and Advice

Maintenance schedules can also be provided which simply remind you when various tasks are required to be undertaken in the garden. 

On going advice can be given for the long term maintenance and upkeep of the garden as it matures.  Annual follow up visits can also be arranged.   We can also recommend contractors to maintain your garden for you.