The Garden Design Process

Stage 1 -  Initial Consultation

An initial meeting is arranged to meet up, discuss your requirements and for us to view the garden.  This meeting is followed by a consultation visit and this forms the basis of a design brief which the garden design is based upon. 

Stage 2 - Survey and Site Analysis

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

Stage 3 - Outline Design Plan

• The outline plan is based on the survey and the design brief.  It sets out the proposals for the garden, including areas of hard landscaping and planting. The plan is 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.

• Stage 4 -  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.

Stage 5 - 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.

• Project monitoring - We can obtain quotations from contractors on your behalf, if you would like the project managed.   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).

Stage 6 -  Planting Plans

We can provide planting plans that are drawn to scale and detail 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.

• Planting Plan 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.

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

Stage 7 -  Aftercare and Advice

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

For a small fee 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.

Historical restoration

Historical garden restoration projects are welcome.

Choosing a Garden Designer

We are independent with no links or interests in any landscaping supplier, landscaping company, plant supplier or nursery.  This ensures that the design of your garden is implemented without being restricted to using a particular landscape material or a limited planting palette.  You also have the freedom to choose who will build your garden for you or we can assist you by suggesting tried and tested contractors.  We can also oversee construction of the garden.