The Design Process

We offer a comprehensive design service from an initial consultation right through the evolution of the design and detailing to the completion of the project and advice on aftercare.

We pride ourselves on meticulous attention to detail, responding to your brief and delivering a well communicated, considered scheme which is highly individual and unique to your requirements.

Design Consultation and Brief

The initial consultation with the client on site enables us to get a sense of the place and the functional and aesthetic needs that the garden should fulfil for the clients. A written design brief forms the basis of the design development.

As part of the process we identify opportunities along with any potential constraints or planning requirements that need to be addressed to achieve the ideal design.  A realistic timescale for the project is also considered.

Survey

We start with a full topographical survey to provide an accurate map of your site with levels, buildings, trees and services all plotted on the drawing. Sometimes we can do this ourselves but usually is commissioned to landscape surveyors. We then produce a site analysis which along with site photos, inform our design development. 

Design Concept

The initial concept designs are then developed along with illustrations and material mood boards to illustrate our ideas. At this stage we present our design concept and ideas which, with feedback, are refined to develop the final agreed master plan.

Detailed Design (Production Design)

This includes detailed construction drawings, specifications and schedules required by contractors to cost and build the garden.

We ensure the careful selection and sourcing of materials, plants, water features, lighting, furniture, container and sculptures, as we appreciate how much they add to the new garden’s personality and unique sense of place. These drawings also enable all parties tendering for the works to cost accurately on a like for like basis against the detailed documentation we provide. A fixed fee is supplied for these works before work commences.

Planting Design

Whilst key structural plants and all trees are indicated on the master plan, the detailed planting plans are usually developed nearer the time of the garden build. The detailed planting plans are presented with mood boards to give a feel for the plants and combinations and colours. We can also talk through a maintenance schedule to ensure you, or your gardener, are confident in looking after your garden for years to come. 

Tendering

We can either recommend a contractor, or you may want to do the work yourself or use your own contractor.  Either way we will work hard to ensure the project is delivered to the highest standards working in a flexible, practical and efficient way.

We work with the very best landscape and specialist contractors to achieve the highest building standards and a high quality finish. On your instruction we can invite the most appropriate contractors to tender.  Once the quotes are received we coordinate all the prices and produce a tender report, so you have all the details needed to appoint the contractor of your choice.

Construction and Installation

At this stage, the garden landscaping begins, and the garden design becomes a reality. We can provide a full or partial project monitoring service to act as your professional advisor and ensure the best quality workmanship throughout. This takes the stress away from you as the client and allows us to be responsive to any changes caused by the site or changes that you the client may wish.