"Design is the process of expending considerable time, thought & energy into making something that looks & feels effortless"
- Christopher Anton
Design process
Every client & garden is unique. Which is why Rachel's design process is tailored and adaptable, depending on your needs & requirements. For clients requiring a complete design service, the following stages typically apply.
If you would like to discuss your particular requirements, please get in touch - we'd love to hear from you!
1. Consultation
The design process begins with a consultation meeting & site visit. This is an opportunity for me to get to know you and to gain a detailed understanding of your requirements & aspirations for your outdoor space. I will follow up this meeting with a written brief & design fee proposal.
2. Survey
Following acceptance of the brief & fee proposal, a site survey will be commissioned. For small gardens I am able to carry this out; for larger gardens or gardens with additional complexities (eg level changes), a professional topographical survey will be needed.
The survey, together with other site analysis (eg soil sampling & a general assessment of the condition of the site) provide valuable information required for the design of your garden.
3. Concept design
I will then present to you a concept design (occasionally referred to as an outline design). This usually comprises a 2D plan (a bird's eye view) along with other 3D visuals and moodboards, in order to illustrate my design for your space.
At this stage the process is very much concerned with the layout & primary functions of the space although initial ideas on materials, planting, and any other special features are often discussed.
4. Detailed design
After the concept design has been agreed, we move into the detailed design stage. This will typically involve decisions on materials, technical drawings & specification documents, and in some cases consultation with specialists, such as structural engineers.
5. Planting design
A very enjoyable part of the process! Deciding on the planting palette and how the plants will be set out in your garden. Alongside detailed planting plans, a full plant schedule including quantities & sizes is produced.
I am also happy to source & supply the trees & plants required in order to bring the design to life.
6. Construction
I will be happy to recommend experienced professional landscape contractors who can build your garden according to my design. Of course, if you wish, you are also free to take the information I have produced for you to a landscape contractor of your choice. I also offer the option of regular site inspections to monitor the progress of the build.
7. Aftercare
The final but all important stage! Often overlooked, it is important to consider at the outset how the garden will be maintained after construction is complete and the garden has been planted up.
A zero maintenance garden doesn't exist - your garden is a growing, living thing. Although careful choices can be made during the design process to avoid a high maintenance result, your garden will require care after it is built.
I can supply aftercare instructions to aid the establishment & ongoing maintenance of your garden and am happy to discuss the needs of your garden with you and/or your gardener.
If you’re not ready to take the plunge and commission a full garden design, or that’s not exactly what you’re looking for, I also offer a standalone consultancy service, or a planting design service.
Please contact me if you would like to discuss your requirements in more detail and I will be happy to provide a quote.
If you would like to discuss your garden project, please get in touch.