“The key to good garden design is capturing the spirit of the place and enhancing it.”
GARDEN DESIGN & PROCESS
Creating a garden is a journey that begins with meeting the client and taking the time to understand your unique lifestyle, needs and goals. This information allows me to create a design that perfectly reflects your vision. Through the design journey, I maintain open and consistent communication, keeping you updated on the progress and seeking your input at every step if necessary. Once the design is finalised, I work with trusted landscapers who bring the design to life, making sure that the project is built to your specification. I am dedicated to providing a seamless experience and my commitment extends to site inspections during construction to ensure a successful realisation of your dream garden.
INITIAL CONSULTATION
To begin the design process, I will conduct a site visit and initial consultation to gain a clear understanding of your desires and requirements for the garden, as well as to evaluate the existing space. The top priority is to ensure that I fully comprehend your vision for the garden including your unique requirements and preferences. After this, I will provide you with a written brief that includes the fee structure, design process, and a detailed summary of your purposes for the area.
Following that, I proceed with a comprehensive topographical survey of the site (either done by me or a specialist company - depending on size of the garden), accurately documenting the site's layout, including levels and utilities. This survey provides a detailed understanding of the terrain, enabling me to design with accuracy and consideration for existing features.
CONCEPT DESIGN AND DRAWINGS
Once the design brief has been agreed, I will proceed to create and present a design concept plan for you. This plan will provide a visual representation of the proposed layout, accompanied by supporting mood boards that showcase materials, plant selections, and decorative elements and also includes a design description explaining design choices and to offer insight into how the design plan addresses your specific requirements. The presentation includes sketches and CGI images which provide a clear visualization of the proposed concepts, allowing you to better understand how different elements will come together in your garden. They will enhance your understanding and help you visualize the design in a more tangible and realistic manner.
Once the concept design has been agreed I will produce a planting plan or list, lighting plan, dimension/ layout drawings, and any development drawings (Pergola, Outdoor kitchens etc.) that contractors can use to cost the work.
I can also help source and supply styling elements like pots, planters, furniture, water features, sculptures and other.
BUILD AND CONSTRUCTION
Once you have approved the design , I can recommend trusted landscaping companies that can provide you with a comprehensive estimate for the necessary work that will need to be carried out.
I can provide close supervision of the building process and offer project management services to ensure that the project is built according to the plans. Coordinating with contractors and overseeing the implementation of your design can be one of the most challenging aspects of the process. Communication between clients and contractors often involves navigating shifting timelines, evolving processes, and unforeseen challenges that require careful management to keep the project on track and fully accountable. As part of my project management service, I will handle all contractor communications, working directly with them throughout the garden build until the final sign-off. I will arrange regular update meetings with you and conduct frequent site visits to carry out quality control inspections, ensuring every aspect of the design is executed to the highest standard. From start to finish, I will be in constant contact with you, ensuring a smooth transformation process. Through regular updates and meetings, you’ll witness your garden design come to life reflecting your unique preferences and vision. The plants will be sourced specially from specialist nurseries to ensure the plants/ trees are healthy and of high quality.
The project management will be charged for in addition to the design fees.
Feel free to email me at design@lillyjoanrichardson.com if you would like me to send you a guide outlining my design fees and project management services.
THE KEY ELEMENTS OF A BEAUTIFUL AND FUNCTIONAL GARDEN!
DESIGN HARMONY: A well-designed garden achieves a harmonious balance between different elements such as plants, hard landscaping features, and structures. The design should flow naturally and create a sense of unity and coherence.
FUNCTIONALITY: A successful garden is functional and caters to the needs and preferences of the garden owner. It should provide practical spaces for activities like relaxing, entertaining, gardening, or playing.
PLANT SELECTION: Choosing the right plants for the garden is crucial. A beautiful garden includes a well-curated selection of plants that thrive in the local climate, considering factors like sunlight, soil type, and water availability. The plants should complement each other and create an appealing visual composition.
SEASONAL INTEREST: A successful garden offers year-round interest and beauty. This can be achieved by incorporating a mix of plants that provide color, texture, and fragrance throughout different seasons. From blooming flowers in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn, a variety of seasonal elements adds charm to the garden.
PERSONAL TOUCH: A spectacular garden reflects the personality and preferences of the garden owner. It incorporates elements, themes, or features that hold personal meaning and create a unique and enjoyable outdoor space.
AESTHETIC APPEAL: A well-designed garden captivates with its visual appeal. It creates a pleasing atmosphere through careful selection of colors, textures, forms, and spatial arrangements. The design should evoke positive emotions and a sense of beauty.
ENJOYMENT AND CONNECTION: Ultimately, a successful garden is a place that brings joy, relaxation, and a sense of connection to nature. It provides a space for rejuvenation, recreation, and moments of tranquility, allowing the garden owner and visitors to fully enjoy and appreciate its beauty.
