Our garden design process
Every garden we create begins with a conversation. We start with an initial call or video meeting — a chance to get to know each other, discuss your ideas, and make sure we’re the right fit. Good garden design is a collaborative process, and it’s just as important that you feel confident in us as it is that we understand your vision.
If you decide to take the project further, we arrange a site visit to experience your site first-hand. This ensures we begin with a clear understanding of the site and your aspirations.
Consultation
During the initial consultation and site visit, we explore your lifestyle, how you want to use and enjoy the garden, and the qualities you hope the space will express. We essentially draw up a wish list tailored to you and your space, whilst taking note of the opportunities and constraints that exist.
We follow up with a written client brief outlining the design process, fees, and a summary of your goals, ensuring everyone is aligned from the outset.
Concept design
Developed design
Once a concept is agreed, we refine it into a comprehensive masterplan. This includes material suggestions, spatial arrangements, and a preliminary planting palette that conveys character and mood.
We enhance the visuals using 3D imagery and, where appropriate, hand-drawn sketches, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the evolving design.
Technical design
With the masterplan approved, we produce the technical drawings required for construction.
These include setting out plans, levels, cross-sections, lighting locations and any structural details needed, where necessary working with a structural engineer, ensuring the design is both beautiful and buildable.
Planting plans
The planting plans show the location of every plant, with a schedule detailing species, sizes, and quantities for ordering, costing, and installation.
A curated plant strategy document illustrates the intended look and atmosphere, and we provide a management plan to help your garden thrive for years to come.
Tender documents & site visits
We prepare a complete tender package for trusted contractors to execute the design, or you may choose your own.
During construction, we offer tailored site oversight — from key milestone visits to regular meetings — ensuring the project is built according to plan.
Finally, we supervise the planting so every element is positioned perfectly, completing the transformation of your garden.
Beyond design – landscape management and ongoing care
Our support continues beyond the build. We provide landscape management plans and can help source gardeners or maintenance teams, ensuring your garden develops beautifully and is enjoyed for many years.
This is the final step in a thoughtful, bespoke process that begins with design and lasts a lifetime.
We like to stay in touch and can be available to offer advice on the ongoing development of your garden as it matures through the years to come.
From initial consultation and site analysis to detailed design, planting plans, overseeing construction and maintenance plans, we provide a complete, client-focused service.
Every project is tailored to the garden type, scale, and your objectives, ensuring a garden that is beautiful, resilient, and stands the test of time.
"We knew practically nothing about garden design when we first approached Joe and his team, who were amazing from the start. We said that the gardens we most liked were the Alhambra in Granada, Jim Thompson's garden in Bangkok and a traditional English country garden. Joe's team really listen to what you say and work incredibly hard to ensure that the end result reflects those discussions. Somehow the feel of all three of those diverse gardens in a very constrained and difficult site were incorporated... and the garden we have is a wonder - and we feel very lucky to be surrounded by it".
Residential 'Urban Terrace' client
FAQs
We offer full garden design services as well as project management. We create detailed designs and then oversee the implementation, working closely with trusted contractors to ensure the project is delivered to the highest standard. Contact us with any further questions you may have.
How long does the typical design process take?
For a relatively small garden, the full process — from initial consultation through to completed construction — typically takes a minimum of six months. Timelines can vary depending on the complexity of the design, site conditions, and whether planning permission or other approvals are needed. We’ll provide a more detailed schedule once we’ve discussed your project in depth. We currently have a 6 month waiting list before we can even start the process, so if you’re considering having your garden designed please get in contact soon.
Can you design for specific styles?
We don't follow a fixed style, as we believe in designing gardens that truly reflect the spirit of the place and complement the surrounding architecture. Whether you're looking for a modern, traditional, wildlife-friendly, or low-maintenance garden, we tailor each design to suit your unique preferences and the characteristics of your space.
Do you work with existing gardens or new projects?
We work with both. Some clients are happy with the overall layout of their garden but want a fresh planting scheme or an update to specific areas. We can redesign sections of an existing garden, develop new areas, or refresh and enhance what’s already there to better suit your needs and style.