Process

How long does the design process take?

There are many factors that determine the length of time it takes to create a garden design. It is important to contact me as soon as you decide that you want to change your garden in whatever way that might be. You may not even be sure how exactly your garden might be improved, but these details can all be discussed in a consultation. As soon as a dialogue is opened then we can decide together how to address the issues faced by your garden and how to achieve that dream space!

Once a consultation has taken place, I will give you an estimate as to when I can start work on your design, and will give regular updates on progress to give an expectation of when designs will be delivered. Obviously, the more complex a design, the longer it takes. This is not always determined by the size of the garden - often tight, urban sites are more complex than sprawling country gardens.

As an approximate guide, a client might receive a draft proposal design within two weeks, and a full concept plan within four weeks.

How should I prepare for the designer’s visit?

I ask all my clients to do a little preparation homework prior to my consultation visit. This might take the form of a questionnaire, but really I just want you to begin the process of thinking what you really want from your garden, how you want it to perform, how will it be used, what will it look like. In some ways my role is to facilitate your ability to describe your dream garden and then to make it happen. Without the dream, it is more difficult to bring it about!

Do I need to undertake the full design process or can I choose which steps I use your service for?

I would always advise to undertake the full design process if the whole garden is to be redesigned. This ensures the garden will be built to the exact specifications stipulated in the plan.

However, there are circumstances where only some stages may be required. Primarily, a client may just need a planting plan for a new border, or for a planting plan to replant a tired area of an existing garden. This is the most common exception.

In some cases, a client may request only a concept plan, the plan showing a scale model of how the garden in question could be designed. The client may get their garden built based upon this plan, however, a note in caution. This plan shows no detail of dimensions, how the built elements are constructed and what materials are used. Essentially, the landscaper would be using guess work, or creating the garden in their own image, the risk of which is shared between client and landscaper.