The key to successful design is first and foremost to understand the needs of the client. A good designer will also take in to account an almost inexhaustible array of other factors that will lead to the perfect landscape. No garden should be formulaic as every landscape exists in its own place and for the people who use it. This is fundamental to a successful design.

Firstly, a meeting to discuss your needs and wants and to look at what can be brought to your project. This meeting is without charge. This will encompass a walk round of the site and a look at the factors affecting your garden. 

The next stage is a fee proposal to set out exactly what is required and what will be provided in return. 

A measured survey will be required and this will be costed separately. 

The design will proceed through a number of stages, usually sketch designs, 3D garden perspectives, masterplan proposal, final masterplan and detailing of planting and features. On approval, the project can then move on to organising tender documentation for contractors and overall project management if required. A maintenance schedule for the garden is also usually provided to ensure the garden is correctly maintained.

The masterplan shown here includes the addition of and extensive in and out driveway, stream water feature, play lawn cut into a sloping garden and lush planting round a completely refurbished and extended house. The garden is in excess of 2 acres.