The Full Design Process

Stage 1: Initial Consultation and Brief

 We will arrange an initial meeting with the client on-site to ensure we fully understand the space; exploring and understanding their vision for the garden and how it will connect and sit within its wider surroundings. Based on this consultation we will then put together a fee proposal and a mood board that will consist of a selection of images that reflect the initial concept ideas for your new garden. 

 Stage 2: Site Survey and Analysis

 Once the fee has been approved and the deposit has been paid, a second site visit will be made. This a foundational information-gathering stage of the garden design process. James will undertake a detailed analysis of the current garden and the commissioning of a topographic survey of the site if required.

 Stage 3: Outline Garden Design Plans

Informed by the client brief and our site analysis, we get to work on the garden design ideas for the new garden. This results in an outline design proposal, presented in the form of a plan of the garden, illustrations and example images and material palettes, all helping you visualise how your new garden will look.

Stage 4: Landscape Masterplan  

Once you're happy with the outline design proposal, we produce a final landscape masterplan drawing, which captures the agreed layout design of your new garden.

 Stage 5: Detailed Design and Specification

We then work to detail all aspects of the design, including hard landscape elements (construction drawings, specifications for paving, steps, walling, seating, water features, etc.), alongside all soft landscaping details (planting plans, specifications, plant schedules, tree selection, etc.). This step may include close coordination with other professionals involved in the project (architects, engineers, etc.) and planning applications, as needed.

 Stage 6: Sourcing a Landscape Contractor

We can recommend suitably high-quality professional landscape contractors from our network to undertake the garden build. We will help coordinate the quotation process on your behalf, either with a single, preferred contractor or via a restricted tender process in which two or three recommended contractors are invited to quote for the garden build.

 Stage 7: Garden Build and Planting

 As soon as the costings have been approved we will be able to schedule the works and create a bespoke project timeline for your scheme. With a professional landscape contractor in place, we will inspect the garden build on your behalf, helping ensure the garden is built as per our design and to the highest quality standards.  Plants are sourced from specialist nurseries and growers to ensure strong healthy specimens.

 Stage 8: Styling

We can source and supply pots, planters, furniture, sculpture and other styling element to finish your garden ready for you to enjoy.

Stage 9: Post-Completion and After-Care

Gardens are living spaces open to the elements and to seasonal change and all gardens require some maintenance. During the project, we will communicate the key maintenance requirements for the new garden and advise clients on how to keep their garden looking beautiful for many years to come. 

Annual Garden Revisit

Keep your garden looking it's best with an annual check-up. We will review how planting has established, make seasonal recommendations and suggest any improvements to keep your garden thriving

A Guide to Fees

Every garden is unique and so is every design. We believe in clear, honest pricing that reflects the time, creativity and care that goes into bring your garden to life. 

As a guide...

Full Garden Design Service:

£1,500-£3,500 for small to average sized suburban gardens (approx. 50-200 sqm)

£3,500-£7,000 for larger gardens (200-500 sqm) or more complex sites

£7,000+ for large, high-end or very detailed gardens (country plots, multiple zones, terraces, swimming pools, lighting designs or detailed construction drawings)

Project Management Service: (optional), typically 10-15% of the final build cost, depending on the size and complexity of your garden.

Annual Garden Revisit: £250-£500 depending on the size of the garden. Includes site visit, written notes and optional plant suggestions.

All fees are agreed in advance, with no hidden costs - so you know exactly what to expect.