I believe it is important to approach garden design methodically and carefully, to ensure a successful scheme. To achieve this for your garden, I will tailor the design process shown below, as some stages are not required for all garden projects.
Stage 1 . Initial Consultation
This involves a visit to meet you and your garden. The aim is to establish the type of garden, or part of your garden that you want me to design; and to throw ideas at each other. I will then send you a brief of the design concept, and a quotation for the design fees. At this point, if acceptable, you just need to confirm in writing with a deposit.
Stage 2 . Site Survey
We will firstly need to survey the site to establish soil types, drainage and existing vegetation. We then measure the site and take level readings.
Stage 3 . Sketch Designs
This entails the first ideas of how your garden could look, as well as proposed materials and plants to be used. The second stage payment will be made at the end of this presentation.
Stage 4 . Final Garden Design
This is a combination of sketch designs which have been adjusted according to feedback given by you from the stage 3 presentation. Section(s) through the site and overlays showing the construction and planting strategies may also be required according to the site and design type. My plans are all hand-drawn and I will colour them if you wish to preserve or frame the plan. The third stage payment will be made at the end of this presentation.
Stage 5 . Planting Plans
This will be a complete set of drawings showing exactly which plants we will use, where they will go and how many are required. The stage payment will be made at the end of this presentation.
Optional Stages
Stage 6 . Construction Drawings
These are detailed drawings of all the construction elements in the design (eg walls, buildings, pergolas, terraces, water features) drawn to scale showing the contractor exactly what is required. The stage payment will be made at the end of this presentation.
Stage 7 . Project Management
This is a design and build package which involves the completion of the construction and planting in accordance with the drawings in stages 5 and 6. I then oversee the project to make sure the contractors achieve an acceptable finish. I can tailor the management to your individual requirements
Stage 8 . Maintenance Plan
This will be a complete listing of all the plants in your design with an annual maintenance requirement. This easy-to-use document explains when and what to feed the plants, and when and how to prune. I can also recommend contractors who can provide regular maintenance.