How Long Does It Take to Design a New Garden?

How long does it take to design a garden? What’s the process? Where do we start? These are common and completely understandable questions we receive regularly when potential clients reach out, looking to engage us in the transformation of their outdoor spaces.

The answer, as with many aspects of garden design, is that it depends. The size of the project, the location, existing site conditions, planning restrictions, and the

complexity of the design all influence the timeframe. However, looking back at past projects, we can provide a general idea of how long you should expect the process to take, helping to set realistic expectations.

Even after more than 20 years in the industry, I am still sometimes surprised at just how long it can take from the first conversation to the moment a garden is ready to be enjoyed. Unlike decorating an interior space, where changes can be made relatively quickly, gardens require time, patience, and careful planning to ensure the best possible results.

The Garden Design Process – Step by Step

1. Initial Consultation (2-4 weeks)

The journey begins with an initial consultation, where we discuss your aspirations,

needs, and budget. This phase involves a site visit to assess the space, understand existing features, and take measurements. It’s also an opportunity to talk about style preferences, how you plan to use the garden, and any specific elements you’d like included. Depending on schedules and availability, this initial stage can take a few weeks to complete.

2. Concept Design (6-12 weeks)

Once we have all the necessary information, we begin the exciting process of

concept development. This includes:

● Producing initial sketches and mood boards.

● Developing a layout plan that captures the overall vision.

● Exploring material choices, plant palettes, and special features.

● Reviewing the design with you and incorporating feedback.

This phase typically takes between 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity of

the design and how quickly feedback is provided.

3. Detailed Design and Technical Drawings (8-16 weeks)

After finalizing the concept, we move on to detailed design development. This stage involves:

● Producing scaled drawings and construction details.

● Selecting and sourcing materials.

● Finalizing the planting plans, ensuring the right plants are chosen for your site

conditions.

● Coordinating with other professionals, such as lighting designers or structural

engineers, if necessary.

Depending on the intricacy of the project, this phase can take another 8 to 16

weeks.

4. Planning Permissions (Varies – 3-12 months)

If planning permission is required, this can introduce significant delays. Working within conservation areas, listed properties, or areas with specific restrictions means applications must be submitted to the local planning authority. The approval process alone can take anywhere from 8 weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the application and any objections raised.

5. Finding the Right Landscape Contractor (4-12 weeks)

Choosing the right contractor to bring your garden to life is crucial. Some of the best landscapers have long lead times, so it’s important to start the search early.

We help by:

● Recommending trusted contractors.

● Obtaining quotes and overseeing the tender process.

● Arranging contracts and schedules.

This phase can take 4 to 12 weeks, depending on contractor availability and the

complexity of the build.

6. Construction and Installation (12-26 weeks or more)

Once the contractor is engaged, the physical transformation begins. This stage

involves:

● Demolition and clearance

● Hard landscaping (patios, paths, walls, water features, etc.).

● Soil preparation and drainage work.

● Installing lighting and irrigation.

● Planting and other ‘soft’ landscaping work

For a small garden, construction can take 3-4 months, while larger or more intricate projects can take 6 months or much more.

7. Planting and Final Touches (4-8 weeks)

The final stage is where the garden truly comes to life. Planting can be seasonally

dependent, with certain species needing to be installed at optimal times of the

year. Other finishing details, such as outdoor furniture, sculptures, and styling, are also completed at this stage.

The Full Timeline – A Realistic Expectation

So, how long should you expect the entire process to take? Here’s a rough guide:

● Smaller gardens (e.g., urban courtyards, terrace gardens): 6-9 months.

● Medium gardens (e.g., suburban gardens, larger family spaces): 9-12 months.

● Large gardens (e.g., estate gardens, complex landscapes): 12-18 months or

more.

For those needing planning permission or working within specialist constraints, the timeline could extend even further. Our guide on how garden designers handle planning permission and building regulations explains these timelines further.

Why It’s Worth the Wait

Many clients are surprised at how long the process can take, but the best gardens are those that have been carefully thought through. Rushing a garden project often leads to costly mistakes and missed opportunities. Time allows for creative exploration, material sourcing, and thoughtful problem-solving.

Moreover, a garden is a living, evolving space. While the design and build might take a year, the planting will continue to establish and flourish over time, creating a space that improves with age. We like to build strong relationships with our clients and continue to help them develop their landscape or garden over the years ahead.

Start Today – Don’t Wait!

If you’re considering a garden transformation, the best advice is to start as early as possible. Even if you’re not ready to break ground immediately, beginning the design process allows you to make informed decisions, secure the best professionals, and ensure a seamless journey from concept to completion.

Contact us today to explore our garden design services and begin planning your dream garden—because the sooner we begin, the sooner you’ll be enjoying your beautifully designed outdoor space!