Design Process and fees for private gardens

Initial Meeting with Designer
At the outset of the project we meet to discuss the scope of the project and for me to gain a proper understanding of your needs. Together we look at the unique features of the plot, the style and period of your property, and the local surroundings. We discuss what your garden will be used for and by whom. Following this meeting you will receive a breakdown of fees for the design of your garden, in writing. On receipt of your instruction and acceptance, I proceed to the next stage

Site Survey -
The next stage is to prepare a fully detailed land survey, which includes the position of the property, boundaries, trees and all of the other existing elements that are to be retained. If your garden is large we instruct a qualified surveyor to carry out this task. A full site analysis is carried out to assess soil, aspect, climate, exposure and soil samples are taken if needed. A video recording or photographic record is taken of the garden to assist in the preparation of the design.

Scale plan of survey –
A scale plan drawing showing the exact position of all the survey data is completed before any concept designs are prepared. I will also write a contact report which is sent to you to ensure that I have correctly interpreted your requirements.

Concept Design –
Using the information from our meetings and the scale plan, an outline concept design for the garden is presented to you, in person, in sketch form. It gives a clear indication of how the garden space will be laid out and utilised. A general indication of the style of planting will be given. We take time at this stage to listen to your reactions to the design and note any particular concerns or preferences. Some modifications may need to be made to the plan before a detailed design can be worked up.

Detailed Design –
Following your approval of the concept design, allowing for modifications should they be necessary, I work up a detailed and accurate scale drawing of your new garden. This drawing is presented for your final approval before proceeding to the planting design stage. The detailed design can be used as a basis for obtaining quotes from landscapers.

Planting Plan –
We will discuss your preferences for planting style, colour schemes, and any likes and dislikes. Taking into account site conditions and your preferences, a detailed planting plan and plant schedules are prepared.

Optional additional services

Some customers like the added reassurance of detailed construction drawings and specifications, and with a large or complex project this can be advisable

Construction Drawings (optional) – Detailed construction drawings are prepared for all of the hard landscape elements, e.g. steps, walls, pergolas and ponds, etc.

Specifications (optional) – I prepare, in addition to the design and construction drawings, written specifications and scopes of work, to enable landscape contractors to submit itemised quotations, on a like-for-like basis, for the building and planting of your garden.

Building the Garden

I do not carry out physical implementation of the garden design but work in a similar way to architects. All of the drawings and documentation are typically submitted to at least three reputable landscape contractors. They then visit you and your garden and provide their itemised quotations. I can also supervise the construction of your garden. However this service is not covered by our design fee and is calculated separately.

Design Fees

Fees for designing a garden start at £350 for a small garden. To discuss your requirements in detail and to obtain an estimate of costs please contact Sharon Farnham. Please see Contact Us page for how to get in touch.