The Design Process
Caroline frequently works with developers to secure ‘Outline Planning Permission’ for new builds, submitting plans to local planning authorities. Working from tree surveys and tree officer reports, she produces a design that satisfies their requirements. She can also orchestrate the implementation of the hard and soft landscaping features.
Caroline has collaborated with many Architects, working from their plans and surveys, and is often asked to design a garden for a house or extension that is not yet built.
Whether you require a garden that is all about plants or whether you require hard and soft landscaping, the design process can involve the following;
1. Initial Consultation
Our first meeting allows us to look at the garden and discuss your requirements as well as introduce the way I work. This is summarised into a brief for you to check, which becomes’ the basis for the design and quotation..
2. Site Survey/Analysis
A topographical survey of the existing garden is needed before any design work begins. This shows buildings within the site, comprehensive levels, boundaries, trees and existing features.
3. Concept Plan
This will help you visualise how the garden might look. Using the survey, site analysis and brief, a concept plan is prepared with an image board. This can be accompanied by perspective drawings, elevations and will show the type of materials and planting that could be used.
4. Setting Out Plans
These are scaled and dimensioned plans that landscape contractors can quote from and incorporate any amendments agreed after discussing the concept plan. Written information on materials, and processes are detailed in the ‘Scope of Works’. Construction drawings, detailing garden features, may be required and health and safety is considered.
5. Planting Plans & Schedule
Plants give atmosphere, colour and year round interest to a garden. Plants are chosen to suit the gardens soil and aspect and the ‘Planting Plan’ (showing location and spacing of plants) and ‘Planting Schedule’ (list of botanical plant names with quantities and sizes) are used for costing, ordering and setting out plants. I organise planting and can also help you with aftercare by writing up a Maintenance plan.
6. Project Monitoring
To ensure a satisfactory outcome I am able to offer the additional service of project monitoring.