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The first thing that will happen will be a short introductory call, where we will talk about what you want from your space, your timelines and what type of aesthetic or style you’re looking for. This is to make sure we’re a good fit before committing to the process.
If all parties are happy to proceed, you will receive a fee proposal for the design process after which we will book an on-site consultation ahead of design work commencing
My approach is to create outdoor spaces with strong architectural form and natural planting, making room for both people and the natural environment to thrive. The process is rooted in a considered response to the character, qualities and potential of each site, letting it guide my thinking so that what emerges feels inevitable, not imposed
Step one: Design consultation and survey.
The garden design process is a wholly collaborative activity. Our first job is the design consultation to understand what you want and need from your garden, and also to understand the unique way that you use and live in this space. A detailed analysis of the garden will also be conducted, and we strongly recommend having a full topographical survey of the garden.
Stage two: Concept design
After our initial discussions and site survey, I’ll develop a concept design to explore different layout possibilities. This will be supported by mood boards to help convey the overall atmosphere and design direction. At this stage, the focus is on broad spatial arrangement rather than finer details.
Stage three: Developed design
Once we’ve agreed on a concept, I’ll refine it into a masterplan. This will develop the layout into a fully considered design, incorporating material choices, spatial relationships, and a planting palette that reflects the intended character of the space. Additional imagery will be developed to help bring the vision to life.
Stage four: Detail phase
With the masterplan finalised, I’ll produce technical drawings, including construction details, lighting plans where appropriate, and setting-out plans. A detailed planting plan will also be created, specifying plant species, quantities, and exact placements to assist with costing and ordering.
Stage five: Once the design work is complete, the project can be put out to tender for contractor quotes. I can recommend trusted contractors, or you’re welcome to source your own. During the build, I can visit the site to check progress and monitor build quality
Each phase of the process (see What is the Process) takes anywhere between two and six weeks, depending on the scope and complexity of the project. Much of this depends on receiving prompt and considered feedback from you as the client, which allows us to move forward collaboratively and keep the project on track
Yes! In fact this is fairly common for garden designers and architects to work together to achieve something remarkable. The sooner we’re brought into this process, the smoother and easier it becomes, ensuring that practical elements can be addressed from the outset
Every garden is different, so rather than working from a price list, we start by talking about what you're hoping to achieve and what you'd like to invest. From there, the design fee reflects the size, scope and complexity of the site and brief, and is confirmed once we've met and assessed the space.
Landscaping costs follow the same logic, they depend on the same factors and can only be accurately estimated once the design is in place. Knowing your budget upfront helps us shape a design that's genuinely achievable, rather than something that needs to be scaled back later.
Yes, this is completely normal, especially for larger or more complex projects. If you’re considering phasing the build for financial reasons, we can work together to look at cost engineering to make sure that we achieve the right outcome for your budget. Crucially, this process has to work for you and so does the build phase.