The Garden Design Process
Initial meeting
We may have previously chatted on the phone or over email, this initial meeting is a chance for us to meet in person and discuss your requirements for a garden design. Usually taking 1-2 hours, we’ll chat about your site, the architecture it surrounds and the aspirations you have for your new garden. Exciting!
I’ll then summarise all of the points we’ve discussed in a design brief and send it back to you for approval, along with a breakdown of the design process and fee proposal document.
Site survey
It is important for us both to understand what is happening in the garden currently. As well as conducting my own photographic site analysis to get an understanding of the space, in the large majority of gardens a topographic survey will need to be commissioned to capture things like existing services and utilities, level changes and building data.
Outline design
Taking into account the things we have discussed and my own research into the environmental factors involved, the concept design is created.
Comprising of a plan (top-down) view, a number 3D views from within the space, a mood board and various material and planting palettes, the concept presentation will be presented to you in person. This is a chance for us to discuss the layout, potential planting schemes, lighting choices and materiality of the proposal.
Start of the detailed design: Masterplan
Once the outline design is agreed, any adjustments can be made and a masterplan document created to scale.
Detailed design & specification
In order to cost and build the garden, landscape professionals will need technical drawings showing design intent and where each element of the garden is going in relation to the rest of the plot. This includes specifications, scope of works, setting out plans, paving plans, construction drawings as well as lighting proposals.
The devil is in the detail!
Planting design
Planting design is a big part of the overall scheme. We tailor all of our planting designs to your style as well as the geographic factors in your garden such as aspect, sun levels, soil conditions and wind levels.
Tendering
The construction package is created and can be communicated to a nominated contractor or number of potential contractors in order to obtain accurate quotes and timescales for the landscaping build.
Build and project management
My job as the designer is to work with the landscaper to ensure the build goes smoothly and retains all of the design nuances that make your space bespoke. I pride myself on excellent communication.
I like to select many of the trees, shrubs and plants myself to ensure quality of planting goes into the garden. I also oversee the positioning and planting where possible to ensure the detail is retained.
Garden Maintenance and aftercare
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a “no maintenance” garden and all gardens (especially newly planted ones) need some loving care to ensure they establish, develop and mature.
We will discuss the ongoing care of your new garden and if a third-party maintenance contractor may be needed in the future. If you prefer to maintain the garden yourself, I can produce a maintenance plan to help you.