The Ideal Gardens Project Process

sample garden design photographs

Initial visit

This first meeting is not chargeable, it is designed to discuss client requirements only and how they can best be addressed. The range of services offered will be outlined together with approximate charges for any given option. After ascertaining the scope of work required follow up meetings will be scheduled as appropriate.

Commission for garden design only

The first of three meetings is to discuss all the various elements to be incorporated into the design together with any particular style of garden preferred, and finally the budget that is to be set aside for the scheme. To assist in the decision making, a portfolio of previous projects is shown that often helps a client to visualise the design principles that are being suggested. A design fee is then agreed.

A detailed site survey is then undertaken to confirm all dimensions, levels and positions of any existing features that are to remain.

At the second meeting, at least two, but often three design options are presented to give the client an appreciation of the different styles/themes that would suit their garden. By the end of this meeting a conclusion is usually reached on the format of the final design prior to the final design being presented.

The last meeting is where the final design is presented with a copy for use as a working document.

Design and build

The design process as above is followed, then, once all of the specification for materials has been agreed, a written quotation is submitted together with start and finish dates of the work. Finally, depending on the value of the scheme, stage payments will be outlined and agreed.

Individual landscaping projects

All landscaping work is priced following a site survey to ascertain details of work to be undertaken. A full description of materials to be used is given as well as dimensions of areas of work to be undertaken. Typical examples of landscaping projects would be; block paving front drives, new patios, pergolas and ponds, as well as garden walls and lawns.

Plant sourcing and planting

Plants are sourced from a variety of specialist plant wholesale nurseries with the majority being in pots. However, bare root plants are obtainable during autumn/winter if the need dictates (for hedging, etc). Perennials are usually planted in groups of three or five, as are smaller shrubs. Larger shrubs and smaller trees are planted as the backbone of borders with specimen trees being planted and staked as appropriate.