Process
1. CLIENT CONSULTATION
An onsite consultation is required to assess the site situation, building vernacular, soil conditions, existing flora and existing hard landscaping structures. All garden users need to be present to ensure that as the project design brief is developed, all their desires and needs for the space are accommodated.
Following the consultation a full written brief and design fee proposal is provided.
Contact me now to arrange a consultation and begin the process.
2. SITE SURVEY
Following a written acceptance of the brief and fee proposal, the design process will commence. This begins with a survey of the site. Uncomplicated sites surveys can be performed in-house. For larger and more complex situations we recommend specialist garden and landscape surveyors.
The survey provides dimensions, levels, soil type, existing flora, features, services, aspect and genius loci. It forms the basis of all the design drawings.
3. Concept Designs and Final Masterplan
The early development of the design will be formulated from the information gathered during the consultation, survey and site analysis. This design will be presented in a two-dimensional plan view arrangement and accompanied by 3D elevation or perspective illustrations, either hand drawn or in digital format.
These early development drawings are used to stimulate further discussions and development ideas if required. Once all parties are happy and excited by the design, the final scaled plan drawing is prepared (the masterplan).
4. Tender Documents, Construction and Project Management
To realise the design we can recommend highly reputable landscape contractors for the construction or clients can source their own. In each case a tender package, including detailed layout, scaled setting out drawings and construction details will be provide to support the quote process and ease construction.
Following the contractor appointment, a ‘project kick-off’ meeting is scheduled with client, contractor and myself to clearly communicate all aspects of the build. Regular visits are undertaken throughout, communicationing with client and contractor to ensure the smooth delivery of the project.
5. Planting Design, supply and Planting Supervision
During the hard-landscaping construction phase, work begins on the planting scheme. This is developed dependent on the conditions of the site, on-going maintenance requirements and client palette desires. A planting plan, schedule and cost are then provided.
All plants are sourced and selected from reputable specialist nurseries and delivery fully managed. In all cases we oversee the setting-out of plants and can undertake responsibility for physical planting or supervise the landscape contractors through this process.
6. Aftercare and Plant Maintenance
Periodic onsite consultancy sessions throughout the year can be provided, providing instruction on suitable plant care and pruning practices. Single visits and cost saving annual subscriptions providing four yearly visits are available.