Our Garden Design Process
From the first consultation to the finished garden, our garden design process is designed to make your project clear, collaborative and enjoyable. A clear, two-stage process guides every project we take on across Lancashire — from Chorley and Preston to Southport, Manchester and beyond — so you always know what happens next, and why.
How Our Garden Design Process Works
Every garden is different, but our structured two-stage process keeps your project clear and manageable from the beginning. Stage One focuses on understanding your garden and developing the concept. Stage Two turns the approved concept into detailed plans and specifications ready for construction.
✓ 01. Consultation & Concept
✓ 02. Detailed Design & Build Specification
Stage one - concept stage
In the first stage of the process, we’ll develop a concept and designs for your garden.
Starting from our first meeting through to the finalising of the Concept Design, we'll develop your outdoor space through alterations and personal touches to bring your dream garden to life.
Initial Garden Design Consultation
A 60–90 minute conversation about your garden
Welcome to our initial consultation, where we can delve into the specifics of your garden, exploring your requirements, wishes, and needs.
The consultation is usually around 60-90 minutes, allowing us ample time to discuss and explore your current garden. During this time, I'll share my preliminary thoughts, which, at this stage, are in their early stages of development. These initial ideas will serve as a foundation for how i develop your outdoor space. I will then present you with a detailed design brief and quote for the design work that will be undertaken.
Site Survey & Garden Assessment
Getting an accurate read on your site
For smaller gardens, we conduct thorough surveys and site analyses to gather essential information.
However, for larger gardens or sites presenting significant challenges, we recommend commissioning a comprehensive topographical survey from a professional surveyor. This ensures precise data collection and analysis, enabling us to develop accurate and effective design solutions tailored to your specific landscape.
Garden Design Brief
Translating the conversation into a working brief
The duration of this meeting typically spans around 90 minutes, allowing us ample time to grasp the intricacies of your garden's size and complexity.
During this consultation, I'll share my preliminary thoughts, which, at this stage, are in their early stages of development. These initial ideas will serve as a foundation for our future design discussions. Following this understanding, I will elaborate on the tailored design process that aligns with your garden needs. I will then present you with a detailed design brief and quote for the design work that will be undertaken.
Concept design presentation
Seeing your garden before it exists
I will then present the proposed scheme in the form of 3d visual concept designs.
This comprehensive presentation includes a wide array of 3D perspective photorealistic visuals, along with a step-by-step guide through the design, highlighting elements and areas of interest giving you everything necessary to vividly depict the envisioned garden or landscape.
During this stage, adjustments can be made and costings discussed, before moving onto Stage Two drawings and finalizing the details of the design.
3d animation & VR (optional)
For intricate designs or tricky sites
If the design proves to be intricate, the site presents challenges, or if you struggle with visualizing your prospective new garden, we can create a 3D animation to help you.
Our 3D animations are created to offer a realistic representation of the proposed garden, making it easier for you to make informed decisions and envision the final outcome.
This service aims to enhance your understanding and satisfaction throughout the garden design process.
Stage 2: Detailed Garden Design & Build Specification
Once the concept design is approved, Stage Two develops the detailed drawings, specifications and information required to accurately quote and build the garden.
Master Plan & Technical Drawings
Precise drawings your contractor can quote from
As part of Stage Two, we will prepare the master plan, construction and scale drawings, along with set-out plans for the contractor. If required drainage, irrigation and lighting plans will also be designed at the is time.
We’ll also be producing a detailed specification of works for the contractor(s) to accurately quote off of which I will be happy to present to assess cost, quality, timing and location.
Garden Lighting Design
Extending your garden into the evening
Lighting is a key ingredient in extending the use of any garden or outdoor space
We work with leading suppliers in outdoor lighting and will use our knowledge and experience to create a lighting scheme that will enhance your outdoor space.
Through highlighting key features, level changes and area effect lighting, we’ll aim to create an ambience to your garden space that will make your outdoor space as enjoyable in the evening as it is in the day.
Materials & samples
Choosing materials that earn their place
An important part of the design process is the sourcing and choosing of the right materials for your project.
They’re often chosen to enhance the design, complement existing materials and above all must be functional and within budget.
As part of stage two, we will bring together and present both our preferred and alternative options of materials in the form of a mood board along with samples and cost comparisons between materials
Planting concept
A planting scheme built to last
We'll craft a sophisticated planting concept that seamlessly integrates with both the design and the existing landscape.
Our Plant Mood Board will showcase a selection of feature trees, various types of hedging, and a harmonious mix of perennials, grasses, and shrubs. Alongside this visual representation, we'll provide a comprehensive cost breakdown for your consideration. Upon confirmation, you'll receive a detailed plant schedule to guide you through the long-term maintenance of your borders, ensuring your garden remains vibrant and thriving for years to come.
Garden Construction & Project Implementation
Once the garden design is approved, We'll assist you in finding the right landscaper for your project by recommending a trusted contractor who is suited to your type of project.
Throughout the quoting process, we'll provide oversight and support, including value engineering if required, to ensure your project stays within budget without compromising quality. Once a landscaper is appointed, we can monitor the construction process on your behalf, ensuring that your garden is built to the exact specifications of the design, meeting our high standards of excellence.
What Is Included in Our Garden Design Service?
Initial consultation
Site survey
Design brief
Concept design
3D visualisation
Master plan
Construction drawings
Planting design
Lighting design
Material selections
Contractor specification
Project implementation support
Why Our Design Process Works
With over 20 years of experience and award-winning design expertise, we follow a proven process where every detail is carefully considered. We take the time to understand your lifestyle, your space and your vision to create beautiful, functional gardens designed to stand the test of time.
Why Homeowners Choose Our Process
Award-Winning Garden Designer
Bespoke & Personal Approach
Local Knowledge & Expertise
End-to-End Support
Common questions about our Garden Design process
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Design fees depend on the size and complexity of your garden. After the consultation and survey, you'll receive a detailed design brief and a fixed quote before any design work begins.
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Stage One, from consultation to signed-off concept, typically takes four to eight weeks. Stage Two, the build specification, usually runs a further four to six weeks, depending on scale.
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Yes — we regularly design for homeowners across Preston, Southport, Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside, Cumbria, Yorkshire and Derbyshire, travelling to site for every survey and consultation.
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Yes. We recommend trusted, vetted contractors suited to your project, support the quoting process, and can monitor construction on your behalf.
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Yes — every concept is presented as photorealistic 3D visuals, with a full 3D walkthrough animation available for complex projects.
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Our process has two main stages: concept design and detailed design/build specification. It begins with an initial consultation and survey, followed by concept development, 3D visualisation, technical drawings, planting and materials, and support through construction.
Chorley · Lancashire · North West
Ready to Start Your Garden Design?
Book your initial consultation and let's find out what your garden could become.