DESIGN PROCESS

Site Survey and Analysis

 A topographical survey and site analysis are necessary to produce a scaled plan of your garden and to record in detail all the relevant information to consider in the design. 

The survey and site analysis consist of:

• Measuring the site, boundaries, building(s), access points, windows and existing ground levels.

• Plotting existing features, trees, hard landscaping, planting, manholes, drains, etc.

• Analysing the soil types by digging test holes and testing the pH levels

• Assessing the existing drainage

• Noting aspect, setting, microclimates, views, sun, shade and wind patterns

• Taking additional photos for future reference when drafting

This data will then be drawn up to scale, in software (We use Vectorworks), producing a base plan.

(This fee would be lower depending on the amount of information you can supply I.e., pre-existing scale plans, site surveys, boundary deeds, map of underground services, etc.)

Conceptual Plan

After the production of a scale base plan, we can begin to design the site. Here we will produce a conceptual plan that attempts to satisfy your brief. This will be an outline that includes proposed features and their location. This will not include final planting or material details but will be annotated with concept board-style images to help communicate our ideas. I like to present diverse options at this stage to prevent the design from being restrictive too early in the process.

I propose that we hold a meeting to present the concept in person. This is a highly creative, collaborative process and the presentation is a two-way discussion between designers and clients. Ultimately, this is a chance to ensure that we are thinking along the same lines.

From this point, after discussion, we can begin to narrow down the concept to one plan that achieves everything that you desire. We will then send you the final concept plan, making amendments as necessary before drafting a ‘Masterplan’ (if necessary).

The Masterplan

Once you are happy with the concept work, I will develop it into a 2D masterplan. This goes into greater detail and is digitally produced to scale. It shows all hard and soft landscaping elements of the design, with clear annotations to describe what is being represented.

Designing on a computer allows me to work closely and share files quickly with yourselves and other professionals such as architects, landscapers, specialists, and planners who may be involved in the project. It also allows any amendments to be made efficiently.

Even though it is not essential, we can help you visualise the design of your new garden via 3D landscape models, perspective views and/or walkthrough animations of your future garden.

It is possible, and to be expected, that further amendments and tweaks will be made to this plan to ensure that the final design achieves what you desire.

I would also advise that we arrange a meeting in which the proposed design can be marked out in situ with pegs, string, and temporary spray paint. This will further allow you to visualise and truly ‘feel’ the design, potentially highlighting any issues that were not present before committing to the next stage.

Construction Details

Once the Masterplan is approved it may be necessary to produce additional documentation for contractors. These might include:

• Electrical / Lighting plans

• Irrigation plans

• Construction drawings (e.g. for custom-built garden structures or features)

• ‘Setting Out’ drawings (To ensure that the design is set out and built exactly as planned)

• Sourcing or commissioning any planters, sculptures, water features or outdoor furniture that you may desire.

These documents will allow us to provide potential contractors with the information needed to provide accurate quotations.