The landscaping process
Each part of the process is divided into individual stages – the client is not obliged to move on from one stage to another – we are happy to design for you to build with your own contractors. Similarly we can project manage or construct a design you have from another source. We are a flexible company and can tailor our methods to suit the client. Our fees for each stage are based on the work required and the size or aspect of the site.
STAGE1 – The Design
Consultation
One of our designers will visit you to understand fully your thoughts, requirements and budgets. We will investigate your site, analyse its best (and worst) features and crystallize the ideas that
result. We will look at the period and history of the property, the surrounding landscape and the topography of the whole area to ensure that your new garden will not just survive but thrive.
We use a tried and tested questionnaire and image bank to help you through this stage and armed with this we can begin the design process together. You might have a concept or mood board of your own to aid this – a selection of images, words or anything that best represents your wishes but we pride ourselves in recognizing the clients fundamental needs and incorporating these into the brief. It is a good idea to have decided on your budget at this stage, saving time later on in the design process. Once commissioned we will exchange letters to confirm our instructions and the design process will begin.
Survey
We will undertake a full site analysis and survey of the garden or, for larger spaces, commission surveyors on your behalf. We take into account the soil conditions, aspect and slope of the
site as well as existing vegetation. We measure accurately anything of relevance. In addition we photograph comprehensively the whole garden to aid us back in the studio. We usually draw up this
survey on site by hand so that any anomalies can be investigated immediately.
The Design
From the initial consultation and taking into account the site survey we produce preliminary sketches of possible design solutions. Following further consultations with the client a preferred
design is agreed. This design is developed , moulded and fashioned into a workable draft masterplan and we present this to the client for approval before the final masterplan is produced.
We provide one colour copy and two black and white copies of the design at a suitable scale, usually 1:50. Our design fee is payable on delivery of the masterplan. Whilst every garden is unique a guide price for a small garden starts at £500 and an average size garden would start at £700. These figures are a guide only.
STAGE 2 – The Build
Our teams of professional landscapers take our designs and, overseen by our project manager, construct the garden to the highest quality – every time. They understand our drawings and will make
sure that curved paths curve correctly, walls and paving are built to the desired pattern, height and finish. They will ensure that the site is cleared and tidied not just at the end but throughout
the project.
Because our designers are practical, approachable and above all unpretentious the build is smooth and, should problems arise, we can refine and adjust the design on site without compromising the integrity of the plan.
We demand that all health and safety requirements are met, we keep the client informed at all times and we ensure that the client is completely satisfied with the work before we leave the site.
STAGE 3 – Planting
Our plant expert works with the designer from concept to completion and can produce planting proposals that wholly integrate with our design intentions. We will take into consideration style, colour, interest and most importantly client favourites. Planting plans can be from just a small border to complete landscape appraisals and will include planting lists, locations and sizes.
We can source all the required plants using our buying power to demand not just the keenest prices but also the very best quality. Our largest planting commission was a 25 acre Cambridgeshire estate. We planted over 14,000 trees to diffuse the wind.
