Creating a new garden or improving parts of an existing garden is exciting, but can also be a little daunting. Where do you start?
I have a collaborative approach, by which I try to understand your needs and aspirations, whilst bringing you fresh ideas and taking into account what the site conditions will allow.
It is important to get the design right, and I love working through options to make sure that we find the best solutions for your garden.
The design process can be used to re-design part or whole gardens, whether private or public spaces.
Typically, this is what would happen for the creation of a new garden:
- An initial consultation meeting with you to discuss your requirements and preferences, and possible budget. This initial meeting aims to define your project, reviews the feasibility of your ideas and allows you to learn about the design process. I will offer some basic design & budgeting advice. After the meeting, a written proposal will be sent to you describing the scope and fee for a full design. This initial consultation is charged and usually lasts about one hour.
Once you give me the go ahead for the planning stage, the next steps are as follows:
- A survey of the garden: measuring up the space, checking the soil, aspects…etc. Depending on the size of the site and its complexities, a topographical survey may have to be undertaken by a professional surveyor, whilst I will also survey other elements of the space.
- Production of one or more scaled plans, sketches and photo images of suggested materials and features for discussion. The plans will show options for the layout of hardscape, planting, and other structures (e.g pergolas, built in seating…etc).
- The masterplan includes specific details of all the materials, finishes and bespoke items required to bring the final design to life.
- A setting out plan will also be produced on the basis of the masterplan so that a contractor can prepare an estimate for the hard landscaping, set out the work and build from.
- Some sites have complex or challenging topography, such as difficult levels, an intricate design, or bespoke structures and features, for which detailed construction drawings may be required. I work alongside other professionals (e.g. structural engineers, joiners or electricians…etc) where construction drawings or specifications are required.
- Planting plans are scaled drawings specifying the type of plant, position and quantity required, as well as including a plant list indicating the recommended container or plant size, in order to give the borders the best possible start.
The design fee depends on the size of the site, its complexities, the client’s brief and the level of detailed drawings required.
If you are unsure about whether you would benefit from an initial consultation or would like to discuss budgets or initial ideas, I am happy to have a discussion over the phone at no cost. Feel free to give me a call for a quick chat on 07790 631 078.
If a full design plan is not the way forward for you and your garden, but you would like some garden advice, I can provide consultancy support.