Design Process
Initial consultation
The purpose of this first meeting is to get familiar with a client and the site to be designed.
We listen to the client’s needs and requirements; we then offer general suggestions and explain in detail the design process from a concept to completion. As every site and client is different, only after the initial consultation we are able to estimate the design fees. We do not charge for Initial consultation within the Greater London area.
Site Survey and Analysis
After the initial meeting we come back to do a site survey and analysis. A thorough survey is carried out and all factors important for a design are evaluated. This usually includes site measuring, soil, light, wind and temperature investigation and how the site is connected to the wider environment and possible benefits or disturbances from that. We may look into site's and surroundings history, geology, geography and ecology. For large and topographically complicated sites a professional surveyor may be used.
Design Brief
Before the start of a conceptual stage we try to find out more about client's requirements, needs and lifestyle. A short interview is carried out with a help from garden design checklist. After we gather and analyse all the information, the design brief is outlined.
Design Concept
This is an essential part of a creative process. Certain information and inspirations from the site, or elsewhere when appropriate, get modified and interpreted usually carrying over a certain general theme. Artistic freedom is allowed at this stage to bring out fresh ideas. Process of creative thinking and expression using inspiration and information from the site or related sources assures that not every garden looks the same along with providing a strong design integrity. Design concept is presented as an introduction to a sketch proposal presentation. In a simpler version, mood board with inspirational imagery and themes is used.
Sketch Proposal, Draft design
It's a first drawing presented to a client. Sketch proposal is based on design brief and implemented with design concept. Offering general layout ideas, main garden elements, basic materials and style of planting. Upon a request more than 1 sketch proposals can be produced. Sketch proposal and concept/mood board get presented to a client in person and it is the most important stage in confirming a design from the clients side. After a discussion amendments follow if needed.
Masterplan
When the sketch proposal is presented, discussed and confirmed or amended it gets detailed and transformed into a Masterplan. All the garden/landscape elements get defined and main materials such as paving are selected. Trees and style of planting are selected. Masterplan is an essential tool for a visualisation of the project and a working tool for garden contractors. Masterplan along with lighting and planting plans are usually presented in person, alternatively can be sent by email or post and discussed over a phone.
Planting Plan
Gives additional information and another layer to a Masterplan. Plants positions are allocated and species with amounts specified. As planting is one of the most important elements of any garden and always get lots of attention we make sure that client understands a general planting idea and all species proposed. Selection of plants is usually carried out in a close collaboration with a client. Planting schemes such as cottage style of planting are often used upon clients request. Planting plan complements the masterplan and usually gets presented at the same time.
Lighting Plan
Lighting brings another dimension to any garden and provides different garden experience in the evenings. Various techniques and types are used for garden illumination such as up-lighting of plants and other elements, recessed lighting in paving or decking, wall lighting, border lighting, strip lighting, security lighting, patio lighting, shadow lighting, wash lighting, step and path lighting, driveway lighting, water lighting. Low energy consumption lighting always has a priority. We usually recommend lighting schemes for urban areas, however for environmental reasons we are cautious and minimal when using lights in suburban areas and countryside. Planting plan complements a master plan and is usually presented at the same time.
Hard landscaping plans
Produced when large and complicated hard landscaping areas designed. Otherwise such schemes presented on a Masterplan.
3D visualisation and cross-section
For a better visualisation how the project will look when completed, produced upon request.
Cross section drawings required when dealing with difficult levels and deep excavations.
Construction drawings
An essential instruction when building complex bespoke garden elements.
Construction costs estimate
When all the drawings completed and design fully agreed, a project goes in to costing. We use reliable local landscaping companies that will produce quotation for free and is part of the design package.
Design documents
For large and complex projects, additional project specification is produced.
Although we maintain a list and we collaborate with reliable local contractors, upon a request a tender documentation can be produced and send out to potential bidders.
Garden build Monitoring or Management
Once the project goes into build we monitor the process and are present on site on regular basis. Making sure that everything goes according to design and no compromises are made. Regular quality control check is in place. Usually we do weekly site meeting between a client, construction manager and designer.
Alternatively we manage a project ourselves, employing main contractor and various subcontractors for specialised works.
After care
Management and maintenance techniques are outlined when project completed. Quality maintenance service is recommended and further assistance provided for a garden to mature in its potential.
Standard Garden Design services pack
We offer complete and comprehensive garden design services as per above, however the below package is the standard and most commonly used:
- Initial consultation
- Site survey and Analysis
- Design brief
- Concept board
- Sketch proposal /s
- Masterplan
- Lighting plan
- Planting Plan
- Quotation for construction
- Construction monitoring
