Garden Design

Beautiful, individual gardens designed around their setting, the people who use them and the way they grow and develop over time

Every design project begins with understanding the site. A successful garden should respond to its topography, soil, aspect and surroundings, retaining existing features and established planting wherever possible. By working with rather than against the features of a plot, outcomes are both beautiful and resilient and enhance the natural aspects of the site.

My outline designs are developed by hand, allowing ideas to evolve through drawing and observation. This process brings together structure, planting and materials to create a garden that thrives and feels entirely at home in its setting.

The aim is not simply to create a garden that looks good on paper but one that works in practice and becomes better as it matures.

A considered approach

Every project is different but the design process usually follows a clear progression from understanding the garden and what you want from it, through to a considered and practical design.

The design process

01 Consultation & survey

An initial meeting on site to discuss the garden, how you use it and what you would like to achieve. Once instructed, I carry out a full site survey to assess its character and existing features, and complete a detailed plant stock survey.

03 Detailed design & planting plans

Once the outline design and style have been agreed, the scheme is developed in greater detail, bringing together materials, key planting and the practical elements needed to create a coherent and buildable garden. Detailed planting plans are produced from the final design along with stock lists, seasonality charts and maintenance schedules.

02 Concept design

The overall structure of the garden begins to take shape, exploring layout, circulation, views and the relationship between different areas. Initial ideas are developed into an outline design for discussion.

04 Bringing the garden to life

With many years of landscape construction experience and a network of trusted contractors, I can continue to work with you as the garden is developed, ensuring the details and intent of the design are carried through successfully. My extensive experience in plant sourcing and setting out also helps to ensure the new planting is carefully positioned according to plan and properly established from the outset, allowing it to develop and mature beautifully over time.

For details of garden design fees, see the Pricing page.

I remain on hand to continue to develop and care for the garden as it establishes and matures, ensuring the original ideas and intentions are carried through over time.

Beyond the design

Find out more about my Development & Maintenance services