How I work
I like to make things as straightforward and easy to understand as possible and over the years have developed a simple and stress-free process to manage projects:
Consultation & Quote
↓
Design & Planning
↓
Construction & Planting
While I find this approach works for most projects, I regularly complete Design & Plan only projects for clients, with the construction and planting being undertaken by third parties.
If this would work best for you, don't hesitate to get in touch!
1. Consultation & Quote
The first step is a free on-site consultation with you the client. This is a chance for us to meet and discuss any ideas you might have for your space and begin to get an idea of what might be possible.
The consultation is usually reasonably unstructured and casual. By getting an idea of the types of activities you'd like to use your space for, any existing features and plants you'd like to keep, and the position and sunlight orientation of your property, we can start to develop a plan.
After this consultation you can expect an initial quote establishing an expected cost for the project. This can be fine-tuned as the project progresses and is often itemised into a number of stages, making it easier to plan, budget and potentially refine as you spend time with your new garden.
2. Design & Planning
Once this initial quote has been discussed and fine-tuned as necessary, I begin the design and planning stage.
This might include further site visits to help understand specific details of your property, for example, drainage and exact measurements of existing structures.
These are then used to prepare a CAD site plan which will form a blueprint for the project and will include the major elements of the project, such as paving, structures and a planting map.
For many clients that already have a preferred builder or landscaper (or if I am booked out and a job needs to happen quickly) my involvement in the project may end at the design and planning stage.
This works well on larger projects (as I tend to specialise in the construction of smaller, more contained projects), especially those with a tight deadline.
3. Construction & Planting
This is always the clients' and my favourite phrase of the process.
Clients are often surprised how quickly a space they may have lived with for years can be completely transformed over a relatively short period of time.
As a detailed planting map and schedule is part of the project plan, clients usually prefer to have the plants supplied and to do the planting themselves. When feasible, this is a great way to connect with your new garden and understand your plants and their upkeep.
I pride myself on my attention to detail and impeccable service, making sure projects run on time and on budget to ensure you fall in love with your new garden.