The design process is unique to each project and may take many possible paths. Hannah will listen to your aims for the garden and working with you to establish a bespoke brief for the project. From the first meeting to the final construction of the garden Hannah will take a personal approach to closely guide you through each stage of the project. The typical design process is described here:
Brief
- All projects begin with a consultation visit this usually takes approximately one to two hours during which time I will listen to your requirements for the garden to establish a brief for the design.
- The site will be viewed, comprehensive notes taken and sketches made, spending time on site with the client enables me to get a sense of the place.
- After this meeting a unique proposal letter will be written which includes the design brief based upon the details of our meeting. With a full breakdown and explanation of the design process and what the costs will be. Upon acceptance of this letter the design process will begin.
Shape Divider - Style arrow
Site Survey
- For each project a site survey is essential to record accurate measurements of the property and its boundaries and dimensions of existing level changes. The site survey will accurately locate positions of existing trees, shrubs, and the position of utilities to enable a scale drawing to be produced.
- A site analysis will record the soil type and condition, and the aspect of the garden for a report outlining specific problems and possible solutions will be written. A thorough photographic record is also taken of the existing garden and surroundings. For complex and large gardens a professional surveyor maybe be required for a more comprehensive survey, the fees do not include the cost of the survey but I am happy to arrange this service on your behalf.
Shape Divider - Style arrow
Concept Plan
- I then make a presentation of the proposed design. This is the Concept Plan drawn up to outline the proposal of the new design. The conceptual proposal is informed by your brief and technical information about the space, from the site survey and analysis, presented in the form of a 2D plan, 3D sketches and mood board depending on the scale of your project. This is the first tangible visualisation of your garden, at this stage the plan is flexible and as the layout is discussed we may make several changes.
Shape Divider - Style arrow
Detailed Design
- A Detailed Layout Plan is then produced, making changes and revisions from our discussion of the concept plan, drawn to scale with a detailed layout complete with levels. These drawings will include sufficient detail to build and plant the landscape.
- My design process draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape of the garden looking at the context of the setting to inform my design, playing on sensory experience with natural forms and textures of plants. Whilst eloquently exploring the possibilities of stone, wood and metal to anchor the design with bold contemporary structure.
Shape Divider - Style arrow
Planting Plan
- I design detailed planting plans and specifications. The Planting Plan forms a fundamental part of the Detailed Design package, however I do realise you may wish to be closely involved in the planting design. So whether you know a little or a lot about plants I will work with you to establish a brief, colour scheme, seasonal interest and planting style. I will produce a mood board to begin the design process and from this I design a layout plan, each plant is given its Latin name. The planting plan shows each plant and tree at its ultimate spread, as the garden will be when it matures.
- The planting scheme will be meticulously designed to suit the conditions of your garden that the site survey and analysis will present. I endeavour to select plants that are fitted to their environment, looking at your soil conditions, aspect and environmental factors. There is an option of a maintenance schedule which will help your to make the most of your planting as it develops over time.
Shape Divider - Style arrow
Tender and Construction
- At the tender stage if requested, I am able to provide a set of detailed construction drawings to contractors tendering to do the work. This will enable landscape contractors to prepare the cost estimate. Each scheme will go out to two or three reputable landscape contractors with whom I have worked previously. Following a site visit they provide an itemised quotation which I will analyse and then produce written tender report.
- I am able work with your chosen contractor to realise the design proposal. If you wish I can manage the construction phase, liaising with the contractors and monitoring the progress of the project. Alternatively, some projects are carried without my assistance to manage and monitor the construction phase.
Shape Divider - Style arrow
Completion and Aftercare
- Once the project is complete and snagging details are reviewed and signed off, initial and after care advice is available for an agreed period of time. If requested I can produce a care plan for your garden advising on how to look after your plants and a yearly maintenance schedule.