Our Process
Every garden we design begins with a conversation. We take the time to understand your space, your needs, and how you’d like to use it. Timothy works closely with each client to ensure that every stage—from the initial consultation to the final design—is carefully planned and tailored to the individual requirements of the site and brief.
Below, we outline the key stages of the garden design process, providing a clear overview of how we develop and deliver thoughtful, site-specific solutions.
Initial Discussion.
An opportunity for question and answer usually by telephone to talk about the project in mind. Alternatively, over a cup of tea, you are welcome to come and join us in our studio.
The First Site Meeting.
This allows me to see the character of a site, and of equal importance, you can meet me and see further examples of our work. Together see and feel the landscape, I will therefore have a better understanding of your proposals and thoughts for the garden. We agree what has to be achieved and can relate this to a scale of design fees, setting a schedule for the design process. At this time, I also begin to analyse the garden, thinking how to interpret the ideas, appraising old photographs and plans.
Survey.
We will survey all or part of a landscape. Sometimes we appoint a survey company. Sometimes we do this ourselves because it is a great opportunity to absorb the finer details, those hidden views, sheltered spots and pictures that perhaps have not been considered before. We measure and record the site so that a scale drawing can be plotted back in the studio.
Design.
This often begins with analysis and assessment of the existing qualities. We look at options, discuss and have a sense of place, consider orientation, topography, the existing features and all the practical issues. With the above in mind, allocate space, preparing rough sketch plans over the scale survey, thinking about structure and style; and at this point, it is often good to talk through the rough sketches. From here, these initial thoughts and ideas develop into a master plan, through developing the proposals and client feedback.
Planting and Detail.
We then decide how to furnish the spaces laid out in the master plan. In many examples plants finally set the mood for a space. How we use them has a huge impact on how we feel about the garden. The detail drawings and cross sections show practical construction of a feature and the relationship in level and elevation from one area to another. Lighting, plumbing, drainage are all examples of detail plans.
Scope of Works, Planning, and Implementation.
This is usually for larger projects. A description of the works, planning applications and selection of contractors are all part of the service we offer. We are pleased to monitor the site work to completion. As part of this service, we also source plants, materials and commission bespoke items.
The Finished Garden.
A pleasure to all. As the garden grows, we regularly take calls from clients about aftercare, and offer spring and autumn “review” visits. We are also pleased to discuss furniture, pots and soft furnishings.
