Most garden design projects take between six and twelve weeks, although every project is different and the timescale will depend on the size of the garden, the complexity of the brief and how quickly decisions are made. (I would certainly allow longer if the design is part of a larger house building project, and/or there are planning authorities involved).
Good garden design is a collaborative process rather than something that’s produced overnight. After our initial consultation, I’ll carry out a site survey and begin developing ideas that respond to your garden, your home and, most importantly, the way you want to use the space.
As the design develops, we’ll review the proposals together, discuss any refinements and make decisions about materials, planting and key features. Once the overall design has been agreed, I’ll prepare the detailed (technical) drawings and specifications, and the planting plans needed for the landscaping stage.
I always encourage clients to allow plenty of time for this part of the project. The design phase lays the foundations for everything that follows, and taking the time to get it right not only helps to ensure the finished garden is both beautiful and practical; it minimises the risk of stressful (and potentially costly) problems surprising you later down the line.
When it comes to design and build, it really does depend on how large and how complex the garden is. Some gardens can be completed in a few weeks, others will take many months, (perhaps with intentional breaks in the schedule, to give you a rest).
Typically, a medium-sized garden from the start of design (brief), to handing over the garden trowel, will take 6-9 months, or longer.
