Full Garden Design
FULL GARDEN DESIGN
THE PROCESS
STAGE 1
INITIAL CONSULTATION & SURVEY
Every garden design project begins with a site visit to walk through your space, discuss your ideas, and understand how you'd like to use your garden. This is a chance to explore your style, practical needs, and overall vision, while also assessing the layout, levels, and existing features. After the visit, you'll receive a written proposal outlining the design process, fee structure, and a clear summary of your garden requirements, laying the groundwork for a well, considered, tailored design.​​
SURVEY
The next step is a topographical survey of your garden, which records all key features of the site-including levels, buildings, trees, and utilities. This survey is essential, as it forms the foundation of the design process. We can recommend a trusted, professional land surveyor to carry out the work if needed.​​​
STAGE 2
LAYOUT DESIGN
Following a detailed site analysis based on the survey, we begin shaping the overall design using the information gathered from your client brief. Key design elements are arranged conceptually to form the first stage of a cohesive, functional layout.
This initial design scheme is developed further and presented as a 2D plan, supported by 3D visuals and mood boards to help you fully visualise the space. These materials serve as a valuable discussion tool between designer and client, allowing us to refine ideas collaboratively before moving on to detailed design. Specific materials and design detail is not specified at this stage.
STAGE 3
MASTER PLAN
​This stage refines the agreed layout plan into a detailed, scaled Masterplan that defines spatial structure, proposed materials, and the placement of key features. This comprehensive plan provides the basis for the next phase.
STAGE 4
DETAIL DESIGN
Once the design is approved, it’s developed into a full package of working drawings and specifications. This includes a series of detailed construction drawings showing precise measurements and the design of all key elements—such as steps, terraces, pergolas, water features, drainage, irrigation, and lighting. A setting out plan and technical drawings, including lighting layouts and material specifications, are also produced. These documents are essential for ensuring the landscape contractor can build the garden accurately and to a high standard.​​​
(These documents are also structured to coordinate seamlessly with wider project teams, including architects and specialist consultants, where required on new builds or planning-led schemes.)
STAGE 5
PROJECT COSTING
Once the design and technical drawings are complete, a package is prepared and issued to selected landscape contractor/contractors for quoting. We work with a trusted network of fully insured professionals who deliver high-quality workmanship, or you’re welcome to appoint a contractor of your choice. This stage allows the design to be accurately costed and planned for construction. If you wish, we can provide ongoing site visits throughout the build to monitor progress, respond to any on-site changes, and ensure the garden is delivered in line with the design and to the highest standard.
STAGE 6
PLANTING PLANS
Soil samples are taken from various areas of the garden. This ensures the right plants are selected for the site. Aspect and light conditions are also considered. Detailed planting plans are produced, showing plant names, quantities and spacing. We have links with specialists nurseries which ensures we are able to source a wide selection of plants. A schedule of plants is produced and sent to the relevant nurseries. The plants are placed and planted according to the plan. Plant maintenance schedules can be produced to secure the longevity of the plants.
STYLING
​We can also advise, source and supply pots, planters, furniture, sculpture, lighting and other styling elements. It is these final touches which elevate the design to another level.
GUIDING YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS
Creating a well designed garden is a journey, and not one to take alone. We guide you through each stage, from the first ideas to the construction and final plan planting, collaborating with skilled professionals to ensure your garden is built and finished to the highest of standards.​​​
