What are the benefits of using a designer?
Designers put the Client’s needs and preferences at the centre of the design so the finished garden will be just what you want! We consider everything from your personal style and how and when you will use the garden, down to the practical considerations of maintainability and cost.
Designers usually support the project through to completion of the build, and can find the right contractors to complete the works. We’re Association of Project Management qualified, so offer project management to take the stress out for the Clients too.
How much does design and build of a garden cost?
The cost is dictated by the size of the garden and scope of the work, but there are a few guidelines:
- a small garden with simple landscaping (no planning permissions or complex construction) would typically cost £6000-£10,000
- medium sized garden with new patio or decking, large borders could be £20,000 – £40,000
- extensive groundworks and construction (like terracing or major retaining walls, pools) will cause the costs to increase significantly
- a clear budget from the outset is vital – the designer can then find creative solutions to deliver the best design for the Client within agreed amount. Reuse of materials and relocation of plants for example could save thousands.
What does the design process look like?
We start with a consultation to capture all the Clients’ needs and wants for their new space, followed by the site survey. The design is then developed and presented to the Clients as a Concept, before the detailed Working Plans are produced for Contractors to quote against. The process in outlined further in our design pages.
How do you ensure gardens are kind to the environment?
We don’t like to throw anything away – if we can reuse or pass on materials and plants we will! There will however be some waste so we ensure ensure we send hard materials for recycling, and plant waste goes for composting.
Designs minimise use of concrete, and comply with SuDS standards so water falling on the site is dissipated slowly. We select planting that doesn’t need irrigation systems, and minimise light pollution, selecting solar solutions where possible. It’s very important that our gardens contain different habitats and offer long pollen seasons and we never use plastic turf! We’ve got more info on our environmental ethos here.
wildplacesgardens.co.uk 