The first step is to arrange a visit so that I can view your garden, show you my portfolio, and discuss your detailed requirements including budget, in order to develop a design brief on which to base the overall concept and style of the garden.

I will take a full set of measurements, including levels, of the existing site (sometimes working with a specialist landscape surveyor), backed up by soil samples, photographs and copious notes. These are then drawn up to produce the site survey (the factual elements) and the site analysis (the more subjective elements) as accurate scale plans.

I arrive at an outline design, based on the design brief and site analysis, including ideas about planting, lighting and furniture. I prepare a set of presentation drawings for you, which include a scale sketch plan in colour, together with additional visuals to help you imagine the finished result.

When you are happy with the proposals, a detailed plan is drawn up highly accurately in CAD. This includes setting out plans, construction drawings and specifications on which the landscape contractor can base the quotation. In some cases this stage of the process will be quite straightforward but more often than not, and particularly if you want to put the landscape contract out to tender, this stage is crucial.

I can help you find and select a suitable contractor, and obtain quotations. Once construction is underway, I can visit the site regularly to ensure the project is running smoothly. This can include ensuring that any agreed amendments are clearly documented, and providing an independent opinion on interim valuations and completion.

Planting plans can be prepared as part of an overall redesign, or for an individual border to be replanted in an established garden. I source the plants from specialist nurseries, and produce a maintenance schedule, setting out notes on the future care and maintenance of all the plants provided.

Lighting not only extends your use of the garden, it introduces a whole new character. I can devise a lighting scheme for your garden, including recommending specific light fittings, and liaise with the electrician over installation.

I can source the finishing touches for your garden, from pots and planters to furniture and cushions. A bespoke feature may fall under the landscape contractor's remit, in which case I will draw up all the necessary details, or it may be a more specialist feature - a sculpture perhaps - in which case I can liaise with the artist or manufacturer on your behalf.

A garden is an organic evolving space, and needs some ongoing attention and care. I offer a bespoke one-to-one hands on training service in your own garden to help you learn how to keep your garden looking its best. Or I can help you review your garden periodically and arrange remedial or developmental work as required.