Frequently Asked Questions
In this section we aim to answer some of the questions we get asked about garden design projects on a regular basis. If you have any questions that we haven’t answered in these points below - don’t hesitate to get in touch! It’s important for us to have a good working relationship with our clients - which is why we aim to have clear communication from day one.
Why do I need a design?
In short, in the same way an architect configures a house to perform as its best - a garden designer makes sure every element is considered. You simply don’t get this any other way.
How much does a garden design project cost?
This really depends on the project. If it helps to know, we tend to work with budgets between £30k - £250k as an average. Materials and labour costs can be variable (especially in current global circumstances), but the cost of clearance is also something to consider.
Do you work on commission?
Occasionally, it is the landscaper’s choice to pay us a small fee at the end of a project in return for the referral. However, this is not something we demand and is not a consideration when we recommend a contractor.
What’s your turnaround? How long does a garden project take?
Excellent question! We usually estimate around 4 - 6 weeks turnaround for Stage 1, and another 4-6 weeks for Stage 2. Thereafter, it all depends on what time of year you are having your garden done, landscaper availability and all sorts of other variables.
We try our best to give you realistic expectations from the outset. Having a beautiful garden is not something to be rushed. As a general rule: allow yourself a year for the project to feel like it’s nearing completion. This is sometimes a lot quicker (and sometimes slower!). It all depends on the scope and scale of your project.
The studio is based in Norfolk, but do you travel?
Yes! We consider ourselves fairly flexible when it comes to location. Our ‘patch’ tends to cover the area from London and through Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex and up to Norfolk. However, for the right project, we are happy to travel. After an initial site visit, most of stages 1, 2 and 3 can be completed remotely. Our plant nurseries deliver nationwide and we will aim to source contractors local to you for the build.
Do you supply the plants?
Yes. We use a number of specialist nurseries and growers.
What size plants do you use?
This depends on the project. In most cases we supply younger specimens which will grow to maturity in the following 1 - 3 years. The maturity of a plant has a big impact on price. This is why we tend to use younger plants as the client still gets the impact in the first year, but they also get more for their money.
Can you give me a ‘no maintenance’ garden?
No. It doesn't exist (sorry!). Even a concrete carpark needs some level of maintenance in its life time.
Whatever level of involvement you would like in keeping your garden happy, even the lowest maintenance garden will need a gardener. This can be you, or a qualified professional.
During stage 4, we will draw up a comprehensive plan for all of the plants that are going into your garden. This gives you information on what jobs will need doing and when. Whether you are already green-fingered, looking to ‘convert’ to gardening or even hoping to simply hand the maintenance plan to someone else, we can cater for all levels of gardening confidence.