Can you walk us through your creative process, from concept to completion?
The initial step involves gathering some preliminary information about the garden via phone or email. This includes details such as the size of the space, the type of service the client requires and their desired timeframe.
Following this, we arrange a site visit to discuss the project in broad terms, allowing us to assess the scope and scale of the design. We then provide a quote for the design process, which typically includes a scaled layout plan, a proposed plant selection and an estimated timeline.
Once the client accepts the proposal, we conduct a more detailed site visit, taking a more precise assesment of the site and addressing any further questions that may have arisen. At this stage, we may also create an initial ideas board to ensure alignment between our vision and the client’s expectations.
Next, we develop a first draft of the design and present it to the client for feedback. This is where we discuss preferences and make any necessary adjustments. To aid in decision-making, we also provide a plant guide outlining the proposed plant selections and their respective colour palettes. Clients are welcome to request as many revisions as necessary to ensure they are completely satisfied with the final design.
Once the design is finalised, we deliver a comprehensive plan along with a detailed plant guide and a final quote for the supply and installation of the garden. Installation can be carried out either in full or in phases, depending on the client’s preference. We are also happy to collaborate with the client’s preferred builders or landscapers, should they wish to involve their own contractors.
What are the most important factors to consider when planning a garden?
By the time most clients approach us, they usually have a general idea of how they wish to use their garden and the level of maintenance they are willing to undertake. This provides us with a strong foundation for planning key elements such as outdoor entertainment areas, home offices, or children’s play spaces.
From there, we take into consideration the garden’s size, shape, orientation in relation to the sun and shade, as well as soil conditions. It is essential that the design is both practical and enjoyable for the client, ensuring that every aspect aligns with their needs and lifestyle.
We have encountered situations where individuals have had garden designs created but found them unsuitable or unappealing. This highlights the importance of collaboration—while clients may not always be well-versed in horticulture, they typically have a clear sense of what they like. Maintaining open and transparent communication throughout the process is crucial in delivering a design that they truly love.
Budget transparency is another key factor. We ensure that costings are communicated clearly from the outset, with no hidden fees. Our goal is to create designs that are both beautiful and achievable within the client’s budget.
How do you choose plants for a garden?
Plant selection is based on several considerations, including soil type, sun and shade availability and the level of maintenance required. Our design aesthetic often incorporates a muted colour palette with an emphasis on greens and whites. We focus on combining textures and ensuring structural interest throughout the year.
What are your favorite plants to work with, and why?
We particularly enjoy incorporating topiary elements into our designs, such as Taxus topiary in various shapes and sizes, which add a striking structural component to any garden. Additionally, we are passionate about jungle-style planting, featuring exotic large-leaved plants, unique shapes, and evergreen woodland ferns.
Furthermore, we make a concerted effort to include pollinator-friendly plants, which not only enhance biodiversity but also contribute to a vibrant and ecologically beneficial outdoor space.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a garden designer?
We embrace challenges, as they often push us to find creative solutions. One of the most significant logistical difficulties we encounter is the transportation and placement of large plants and trees, particularly when access is restricted. However, we always find a way to navigate these obstacles successfully.
How do you deal with difficult site conditions, such as poor soil or limited space?
Poor soil can typically be improved through the introduction of high-quality soil enhancers. In cases of waterlogged soil, additional drainage solutions may be necessary, while excessively dry soils can benefit from irrigation systems—all of which we can implement as part of our service.
Regardless of the garden’s size, we take pride in crafting designs that maximise the available space. Smaller gardens present a unique opportunity to create something truly special, and we enjoy the challenge of making even compact areas feel spacious and inviting.
What advice would you give to someone looking to redesign their garden?
The best first step is to consult with multiple designers to gain insight into their different styles, approaches, timelines and pricing structures. Each designer will bring a unique perspective and it is important to find one whose vision aligns with your own.
Can you share a particularly memorable or challenging project you have worked on?
We are currently working on a complete garden redesign that has been both exciting and complex. The project has required us to collaborate closely with other trades due to simultaneous house renovations. This has involved coordinating logistics, integrating building plans and keeping up communication between everyone involved on things such as irrigation and electrical to avoid any damage or accidents and to ensure a seamless execution.
How do you ensure clients receive good value for money?
When investing in a garden design, it is important to understand exactly what is included in the cost. We always provide a detailed breakdown of expenses and schedules to ensure complete transparency.
One of the ways we help clients maximise their budget is by sourcing the majority of our large plants and trees directly from Italy. This allows us to eliminate intermediary suppliers and offer more established plants at a lower cost than those available from UK-based sources.
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