WHAT I OFFER
I offer bespoke design packages for each client. My flexible approach means clients can tailor the design package according to their individual needs, whether that is a complete garden transformation or simply some bespoke planting plans to revamp your existing space. ​
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You can opt for the full package of all the stages below, or specific elements, on discussion.
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Costs vary according to the project size and complexity but for an idea of pricing, planting plans are based on my hourly rate (£60/h) whereas a Concept Design for a full garden design starts at around £1,125.
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STAGE 1 - THE DESIGN PROCESS
INITIAL CONSULTATION
Our initial meeting on site allows us to discuss the scope for the project, discuss what you want from your garden and helps me to understand your taste and preferences.
Within 4 weeks I will draw up a Design Brief Proposal which is sent to you for your approval, along with a detailed breakdown of the process and design fee.
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SITE SURVEY & ANALYSIS
A site survey is required to fully assess your outdoor space. This is usually done by myself, but on more complex sites I will organise a survey by a land surveyor to ensure that your outdoor space is accurately assessed from the outset.
OUTLINE DESIGN
You are presented with a preliminary design, which includes a scaled plan view concept plan, mood boards, planting suggestions, 3D perspective views and section elevations, where required. We go through these together to give you a real understanding of your new garden from different angles showing proposed materials, textures and the 'mood' of the space, as well as initial planting ideas.
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At this stage I can adjust and amend the design as you wish, always bearing in mind the budget.
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STAGE 2 - IT'S ALL IN THE DETAIL
DETAILED DRAWINGS
Once the outline design is approved a detailed master plan is drawn to scale, showing dimensions, different height levels, materials etc. Separate construction drawings and cross-section details are produced, if required. I also draw up a detailed build specification document, which allows landscapers to accurately quote for, and build, the design.
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If planning permission is required the application can be submitted at this stage.
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PLANTING PLANS
Planting plans can be stand-alone items or as part of a complete garden design.
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After discussion with you the client about your desire for the 'mood' of the planting, I create a series of planting designs for the project, usually starting with some painted 'sketches' that set the mood of the scheme. I then create a two-dimensional planting plan together with an illustrated planting schedule and mood board, listing the plants which will work in the different areas of your garden.
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Either you can source the plants yourself or you can engage me to do this. I source plants grown organically and local to each project, so they are already adapted to the specific climate of the place.
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CHOOSING CONTRACTORS
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The detailed tender documentation package allows you to get quotes from experienced landscape contractors, or I can manage the tender process for you, getting up to three contractors to quote for the work. We can then discuss the quotes together to select the best contractor for the job.
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I work closely with the contractors, holding regular site meetings to ensure the garden is built to plan and on schedule, resolving any issues as they arise.
STAGE 3 - PLANTING & AFTERCARE
BRINGING THE GARDEN TO LIFE
Once the landscaping is complete the really exciting stage begins: the planting, where a range of textures, colours, heights and forms are combined to give year-round interest, structure and bring life to your garden. Newly planted gardens will take two - three years to mature.
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I love selecting the plants from the nurseries, tagging trees and then planting everything in situ as part of the whole design process. However, you can opt to source and plant them yourself, if you wish.
GARDEN MAINTENANCE CHECKS
Gardens are living, changing things, which is what makes them such stimulating environments. As such, even low-maintenance gardens will need 'check-ups' or maintenance visits to ensure the plants are performing as expected, to deadhead finished flowers and/or cut back plants at the right times.
If you are unable to do this yourself, I am always happy to develop an ongoing maintenance routine for you. I love to visit gardens I have designed and will often bring along a few extra plants to pop in...