DESIGN PROCESS
DESIGN
CONSULTATION
Developer
To get a thorough understanding of what you would like to achieve, we will discuss your project in detail to generate ideas for design, taking into consideration the desired look, feel, and function.
It is essential that as much information as possible is gathered to generate a good understanding of your preferences for style, colour, hard landscaping materials, plants and any features you might wish to include.
This meeting usually takes around 2 hours, by which time we will have established a good idea of what you would like to achieve from the new design.
This meeting is followed up by an outline of our discussion, a listed brief and a breakdown of the costs.
SURVEY & ANALYSIS
Developer
A well-conducted site survey and analysis are vital to create accurate design plans and prevent unnecessary expenditure and design changes in the future.
Exact measurements are taken along with level changes, access points, height of the windows and doors. Notes are made on the aspect of the garden and pictures taken of views from different areas of the house and garden and soil samples are collected to ensure the most suitable plants are selected.
Here we will also identify potential opportunities along with any limitations of your space to achieve the ideal design.
DESIGN CONCEPTS AND PRESENTATION PLAN
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Developer
The initial concept stage is all about establishing the overall look of the project, how your proposed garden works; how the area flows, and how it sits in relation with the house and its surroundings.
Sketches and ideas form the starting point for conversations in the next meeting.
Using the information gathered from the consultation and site analysis, sketches are produced to illustrate a vision for the garden design. These form the starting point for the next meeting. Timescales and budget are also discussed.
The next stage is to design the Presentation Plan. This is a scaled drawing of your proposed garden design. The overall layout of your new garden is shown, with areas of hard landscaping, pathways, steps, retaining walls, water features and structures. Soft landscaping and structural planting is also shown bringing the garden to life and helping you to visualise the proposed design.
WORKINGS DRAWINGS
At this stage, a set of drawings is produced. These include a series of plans, including layout plans and setting- out plans.
Additionally, designs for construction details such as water features, fences, walls and steps. These help the landscaper quote and implement the design accurately.
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The Setting Out Drawing shows the exact measurements of the hard landscaping and how it relates to the house. Retaining walls, steps, special features and level changes are shown, as are construction methods, materials and measurements.
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Construction drawings are necessary if there is an unusual feature such as a bespoke pergola, retaining walls or water element.
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A specification document helps to ensure quality. Details are given about the site and any constraints, materials and how they should be used, finishes and design details, planting and soil improvements.
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When your garden design is drawn up and agreed, the next stage is to find a reputable landscaper to quote for your project. We are able to assist in this process. Copies of the drawings and documents will be sent out and will provide prospective contractors with the necessary information to enable them to quote accurately for the build.
PLANTING PLAN
Developer
Plants are more than just a finishing touch to a garden; they are an integral part of the design and are carefully chosen to harmonise with the character of the landscape and to emphasise the structure.
Particular consideration and positioning help to create a design where the mapped out plants will grow together harmoniously, filling their own space and forming a well-balanced composition​ over time.
The plants are selected for their colour, texture, seasonal interest and their suitability for the soil and surroundings so that when they are planted, they will flourish and thrive.
Diversity in the plan creates a visually engaging scheme as well as attracts wildlife, so plants with varying leaf shapes, textures, stem colours and autumn colours, berries, seed heads and flower colour are used.
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Most clients ask for new planting beds to compliment their new garden. However, some propose that their existing beds undergo a little revitalisation.
Whatever your requirements, we can create a planting plan to illustrate precisely how your beds will be arranged, as well as offer a full plant supply and planting service.
OTHER SERVICES
Developer
Project monitoring - this ensures the smooth running of the project once the building process is underway. Regular meetings and written updates help keep everyone on track and informed, co-ordinating contractors and other tradesmen to make sure that building work progresses to plan, minimising delays, resolving any unforeseen issues, and controlling costs.
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Garden restoration - It may be that you are happy with the structure of your garden but would like to update your planting. I collaborate with a team of people who help me with restoration and maintenance.
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Plant supply and planting - my team and I can supply and plant the plants and ensure that the finishing touches are in place.
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Aftercare schedule - month by month detailed schedule for the maintenance of your plants.
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Regular site visits - to keep the garden looking fresh, up to date and healthy.
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Application for planning - preparation of drawings and reports for local authorities.
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Sundry purchases - containers and pots, furniture, summerhouses etc.
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Lighting - lighting schemes and liaisons with lighting specialists.