Design
We believe that good design is the key to getting the most from your garden. A successful garden needs to combine functionality with aesthetics. It has to have a rhythm and to flow seamlessly into its surroundings, to create a space that sits comfortably in the landscape, and that you can sit comfortably in!
Be it large or small, a well-designed garden will maximise the space you have, implement techniques which utilise the whole area, and show it to its best advantage. It can pack a lot in, whilst at the same time creating a comfortable and relaxed space.
We talk extensively with clients to discover their requirements, and also to understand them and their situation. This enables us to know what they want and need from a garden and how they plan to use it.
1. Client Brief
The client brief is the first step in the process of designing a garden, and arguably the most important.
We will come and talk with you in your garden so that we can see the space under consideration, and then send a brief overview of what we have discussed. This will not contain design ideas at this stage, but simply forms the basis for the whole design process.
2. Survey & Site Analysis
The purpose is to acquire an accurate survey of the topography of the property and its landscape, together with an shade, ground conditions and microclimates within the site. Details such as views from the windows, materials and plants which can be reused, and the location of services are recorded. The wider environment is also assessed including local architectural styles, habitats and native plants.
This provides us with a complete understanding of the project for the design stages.
3. Outline Plan
This plan is in colour with various illustrations and sketches. It forms our design proposal based on the brief. Most importantly it shows the layout, relationship between hard landscape and planted areas, and routes around the garden. It is accurate and includes indications of materials and planting styles.
During our discussions about this plan we can help you make decisions on construction details such as paving and other materials which will be included in the next phase, the Hard Landscape Plan.
4. Hard Landscaping Plan
This plan includes precise dimensions, levels and construction details to enable the garden to be created as designed. Bespoke items such as pergolas, seats or other features are detailed and the technical speci cation is drawn up to include standards of workmanship, sourcing of materials, and legal issues.
These documents form the package which enables landscape contractors to submit detailed costings for the work.
5. Planting Plan
Meticulous planting plans are drawn up for each area of your garden, together with a plant schedule which can be used as a basis for pricing and ordering.
Care is taken to select plants to create the style you require and which are appropriate for the conditions in the various areas of your garden. Planting schemes can include both ornamental and productive plants for traditional borders, vegetable gardens, orchards, meadows, water gardens or hedges.
6. Build
We work with experienced and reliable landscape contractors to implement the design. They are committed to the highest standards of workmanship and professional conduct.
Our project management includes handling the competitive tender process, analysing and negotiating with the contractors, and monitoring their work from start to completion.
This ensures that the garden design is realised on the ground according to the plans you have approved, within your budget and timetable.
7. Maintenance
We can help you maintain your garden once it is completed for your maximum enjoyment. We offer various levels of service, depending on your requirements. This may vary from several full days every week for very busy clients with large and complex gardens to a seasonal “blitz” for those clients who prefer to carry out some gardening themselves.
We ensure that the garden develops and matures under expert care so that you can simply enjoy the results.
