Commonly asked questions
What is the Journey of a new landscape or garden?
The undertaking of a new garden is the first in a list of processes. Once you have instructed the designer to help you, it should become an exciting journey that reveals possibilities and occasionally limitations. You should feel ‘heard’ in the design process, budget and most importantly, how the garden will be maintained thereafter. It should adhere to your criteria but contain surprising and delightful elements that make it yours.
What is your style?
Simply, my style evolves from your style. So long as it conveys attentive detail, uses contrasting textures and materials and is an evocative happy place, that is where I position my style
How involved should I be in the process?
This is your garden, the more you are involved in the information gathering and design stages, the more it will become yours. During the build, it is best that we keep you informed of progress at each key stage.
How can I can gauge the quality of work?
Professional contractors are employed to work to best practise methods under accreditation, so you can be assured of the quality of the work. If needed, I monitor the project throughout and present certificates of approved work prior to each payment stage.
How can gardens be sustainable?
It is our responsibility as accredited designers of the landscape to promote methods and use materials that do not harm the environment so that natural resources are still available in the future. I am a great advocate of ecological processes and encourage my clients to think in a similar vein.
How can I be sure that the garden you create for me will last over time?
This can best be achieved with a comprehensive management plan. Whether you your self or your garden team are tasked with the responsibility, it is essential that a plan, however small, is agreed and put in place once the garden build is complete and discussed with you at the outset, to ensure the design complies with the available resources going forward. Nature has a way of rapidly taking over and for your garden to evolve on the right side of nature’s intention, planning ahead is crucial. Gardens will evolve and change as nature intended. With careful planning, I can help you manage this.
What are your qualifications and why are they important?
As a pre-registered member of SGD, I am continually assessed in all areas of design, construction layout, CDM (Construction Design Management). As a member, we are committed to CPD (Continued Professional Development) and for me, this is a blend of learning and collaborating with fellow members on many diverse projects. Garden visits, and art galleries are great also places for inspiration and resource As a Holder of RHS Certificate in horticulture, I can advise on best methods of garden maintenance including soil management, plant health and propagation, pruning, composting other eclogical garden methods including the managing of pests and diseases.