The design process

Once the design fee has been agreed, the first stage of the project is to propose a layout plan setting, out the spatial arrangement of the garden. Detailed planting schemes at this early stage are not given, though planting styles may well be relevant. At this point the detail of the layout plan will depend on how advanced your brief is.

The plan will usually be accompanied by a document, illustrating the concept behind the design with photo references. These photographic references provide a useful and easy to understand guide as to how your garden might look.

This is then either presented in person or posted, often with samples of some of the materials that can be used. Subject to your thoughts, the design can be firmed up, refined or modified.

Once agreed, a detailed costing can be prepared. This will be broken down into different elements, so that the project can be phased in. It will take into account the seasons, your budget and other requirements. Advice can then be given as to the proposed chronology regarding the implementation of the design.

Once the plan has been approved, detailed constructional drawings and setting out drawings can be prepared, if required. These are charged for at a pre agreed hourly rate. Not all gardens require these further drawings.

After the layout plan has been prepared and agreed, planting plans are usually supplied. The planting plan, which will be to scale, comes with a schedule of all the plants. It will also include their suggested quantities, planting sizes and months of interest. It will be accompanied by some photo references and a costing for the supply and planting of the beds. The illustrated planting plan is generally presented in person.