Garden Design
The garden design process
My aim as a garden designer is to help you get the most out of your outdoor space however big or small. Key to the design process is fully understanding how you use and hope to use the space. And I will bring to those aims a broader perspective on what is possible. Plants are central to the design process and have a huge impact on the feel and atmosphere of the space. My plant knowledge enables me to not only match the planting design to the feel of the garden, but also to ensure that the right plant is used in the right place. Which is key to the long term success of any garden.
Initial meeting
I will visit you for an informal discussion about what you hope to achieve, to provide you with some more information about my work and to outline the process. Following this meeting I will put together an initial fee proposal letter.
Design brief
I will arrange to meet you and visit your garden to explore in depth what it is you are hoping to achieve through the garden design process. If you already have ideas I can help to formulate them into a cohesive plan. But equally if you are looking for inspiration and innovative ideas let me guide you.
Survey and site analysis
A detailed survey of the garden will need to be undertaken, either by me or a specialist surveyor depending on the size of the garden. I will also carry out in depth analysis of the site looking at everything from sun and shade, soil type to how overlooked you are by neighbours.
Outline proposal - sketch plan / concept design
I will put together an outline plan of the design ideas incorporating the brief which we have discussed. This may include a number of drawings to help you visualise the intentions of the design.
Following your feedback this will be amended to form the layout plan, a more detailed drawing showing the different materials, hard and soft landscaping, a sense of the planting and any key new features. Once the design is finalised a cost estimate can be made.
Detailed design and construction package
This work includes the production of detailed layout plans identifying the soft and hard landscaping, materials, dimensions and detailed planting plans. This will provide all the information that your landscaper needs to build the garden.
Tender process
If you already have a landscaper in mind or would like recommendations you are now in a position to proceed. Alternatively in order to obtain the most competitive pricing a tender process can be undertaken. I will draw up a shortlist of contractors and put together a detailed specification for them to price. I will then compare and analyse the tenders and advise you on the outcome.
Project monitoring / contract administration
To take the stress out of the build process I can fulfil a liaison role between you and then contractor, ensuring that the work is completed as planned and helping to deal with any unforeseen issues.
Plant sourcing and planting
I offer a full plant sourcing service to help ensure that your garden gets off to the best possible start with healthy good quality plants.
Maintenance
Knowing how to look after your newly designed garden is key to ensuring that you gain the most enjoyment from it. I can provide a detailed maintenance plan to help you or your gardener to keep the garden in top condition.
Cost
The cost of a garden design will vary hugely depending both on the size of the garden and the complexity and nature of the design. For example a design incorporating gravel paths and no level changes will work out considerably lower cost than one incorporating a large paved terrace, steps, raised beds and retaining walls due to the cost of labour and materials.
Most garden designs will start from around £20,000 for a small garden with my design fees working out usually as 10-15% of the costs.
When hiring a garden designer it is essential to be honest about your budget from the start as that will enable the designer to produce realistic designs. Or if the budget will not stretch to a full redesign we can advise on what is achievable.
If your budget is more limited it is not impossible to redesign your garden, but it may need to be planned as a design which can be created over several stages or with you undertaking some of the work. Alternatively consider my planting design and garden advice services because even without changing the layout of your garden the feel and look of the space can be considerably improved by introducing new plants.
And by ensuring that you plant the right plants in the right place with the help of a bespoke planting design you may even save money in the long run.
Benefits of employing an independent garden designer
The main benefit of employing an independent garden designer is that we will spend time getting to know what you need and want in your garden and developing a strong design to deliver that. As a result your garden will be unique, and tailored to your needs.
The design process is collaborative as I am able to combine my knowledge of design and plants with strong presentation skills so that we can develop the perfect design and you can see it before any work has started.
In addition by being independent my only aim is to deliver the best garden for you, with no incentive to recommend certain products or plants.