Blooming Good Gardens  Garden Design & Consultancy

Custom Design for Perfect Outdoor Living

The design process...

The next stage will usually be to carry out a survey to measure the site and existing features, including changes in levels. A site analysis will also be undertaken to establish services locations, drainage, light/shade, soil conditions, microclimate and exposure, good and bad views etc.  After this a concept plan is prepared showing the proposed hard and soft landscaping features, shapes and themes, and how they link together - giving a basis for discussion with you. 

 

 

Once any revisions to the concept plan have been agreed the detailed design can be worked up for the garden development, including materials specifications and construction drawings.  If required, Steve can prepare a tender document, help you evaluate quotes for construction from landscape contractors and  make review visits during the construction to ensure that the garden is being built in accordance with the design & specification.

 

3D Models, Images and Animations

As part of the concept and/or detailed design work, Steve can develop a computer model and produce 3D images of the design, to show you more clearly what your new garden would look like when completed. This model can be used to show the garden at different times of the day or year, to understand where sun or shade would appear, or to show the effects of a night time lighting design.  You can even take a “virtual” video tour around your new garden to see how the design works for you.

See here for more information.

As part of the design process, planting plans are optional - some people prefer to plant their new garden themselves.  However, a professional plan will take into account the garden’s aspect and microclimate, its soil conditions, and your preferences. It will also provide detailed information on suitable species for each area, and describe each plant, as well as give advice on future care.

Steve has considerable horticultural experience, and can also provide a consultancy service on re-planting borders or in planning more extensive planted areas, e.g. around commercial sites.  

 

Planting  Plans

Recent topics include:

 

· Knobbly veg.

· Making a bug hotel

· Japanese Garden, Van Nuys

· The Getty Centre Garden

· Designing a small garden

· Renderworks

· Concrete Jungle

· Birds in the garden

· Blashford Lakes

· Rain garden success

· Sport Relief

· iPhone apps

 

Steve’s initial consultation is free of charge. This enables him to meet you, see your property, and discuss general requirements and possibilities. It’s also a chance for you to look at his portfolio of previous work.  He likes to hear how you envisage using your garden, and what styles you like - e.g. traditional or modern, formal or natural.  This will help him to formulate design ideas.