DESIGN PROCESS
Alex’s designs are an interplay between strong, clean lines and generous, rich and naturalistic planting.
The design process is a collaborative and phased approach. Throughout the process Alex will remain in contact with you and update you on progress with regular meetings before and after each stage.
CONSULTATION
The design process starts with a site visit and initial consultation. The priority here is to obtain a thorough understanding of your aspirations and needs for the garden, as well as getting a feel for the existing space. This will be followed with a written brief and quotation.
SURVEY
Once commissioned, the next step is a full survey of the garden, which captures both the layout of the site as well as all levels and utilities. Depending on the size and structure of your garden, this
survey will be carried out by Alex or by a professional topographical surveyor.
CONCEPT DESIGN
Following the survey, an initial design scheme is then presented for discussion and further development. This will show the general layout of the garden, e.g. entertaining areas, lawns, planted zones etc. It will also include a mood-board of images. At this stage, the focus is very much on the layout, rather than specific details.
DEVELOPED
MASTER PLAN
TENDERING
PLANTING PLANS
Once a design concept has been chosen a final master plan will be developed, with sufficient detail to physically realise the project.
All levels, materials, lighting (if requested) are specified for construction. Details on features such as pergolas and water features will also be included, if part of the scheme.
All drawings are hand drawn and colour rendered. These final drawings provide sufficient detail from which the project may be budgeted.
Perspective and Construction drawings may also be provided at this stage for an extra fee.
The tender package is then put together and sent to contractors to quote. We work with a range of trusted contractors who can bring the designs to life, or you are welcome to use a contractor of your
choosing.
Once the build is underway, we offer the option for regular site visits to monitor progress, respond to changes and ensure the project is built according to the plans.
The level of regularity is up to you - it can be as little as a site visit at the beginning and end of build, to weekly meetings.
Plants are at the heart of each of my designs, so the planting design starts at a very early stage along with the rest of the landscape design.
The planting plans show the locations of all the proposed plants, along with a plant schedule listing exact names, sizes and quantities used for costing, ordering and setting out plants. A mood-board of
all plants is included.
Alex works with a selection of specialist trade plant nurseries to source the best possible plant specimens. All plants will be set out on site by Alex and she can undertake the planting, or a third party may be employed.
MAINTENANCE PLANS
Gardens are organic and Alex will visit at least twice a year to assess how well the plants have settled in and carry out a review of the garden.
The garden will need regular maintenance and we can provide a maintenance plan if required. This
allows clients to undertake the general care of the plants, either themselves or by a third party. This will be priced separately and will include guidance on tasks to carry out through the year to maximise the success of your new garden.