There are several stages to the full garden design process but you can choose which parts of the service you require depending on what your needs are.
Initial Consultation
During this visit Touch of Green will listen to all of your requirements and hopes for your outside space. This will involve discussions about use, function, style preferences for the garden, and issues such as screening that need to be addressed. We will look to establish what your goals are in terms of timescales and budget for the project.
Written Brief & Quote
Following on from the initial meeting we will provide you with a written design brief that includes a summary of what your design goals are along with an estimate for the services you wish us to provide. The design fee will be dependent on a range of factors including the size, location and complexity of the site but prices for the site survey and the outline design service start around £500. If you have existing survey information available for your garden this figure will be lower.
Site Survey & Analysis
This involves taking detailed and accurate measurements of your garden, noting changes in levels, identifying problem areas or existing features and views that may need to be hidden or enhanced. It will also involve establishing restrictions due to soil type, orientation of the garden and weather conditions. We will take photos and measurements of the garden. If the site is very large and complex we will arrange for this to be carried out by a qualified surveyor.
Presentation Drawings – Outline Design
Touch of Green prepares a set of presentation drawings incorporating the outline design of the plan. This will include a scaled sketch plan detailing all hard and soft landscaping features, perspective drawings and a colour mood board with a range of images of features, finishes and planting.
Construction Drawings
Once everyone is happy with the design, we can prepare any necessary detailed construction drawings and specifications including setting out plans, and specifications for materials on which the landscape contractor can base their quotations.
Detailed Planting Plans
Detailed planting plans show the exact placement of plants (trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs), numbers required and spacing to achieve the desired look and feel of the scheme. Critically, we take into consideration the aspect of the beds, soil type and local climate, budget, and level of maintenance required so the garden looks at its best throughout the year with the time or resource you can dedicate to it. A planting schedule will be included that summarizes the exact plants and numbers that need to be purchased along with expected cost.
Garden Construction
Many people like to use their local knowledge and employ their own landscaper or contractor to carry out the construction of their new garden. You may however prefer us to help you source appropriate contractors and suppliers, whichever you decide we will be happy to help you. We can provide a project management role overseeing the installation of the scheme, ensuring the scheme is delivered to the highest standard. We charge an hourly rate for this service. The number of hours necessary this role are agreed in advance of the installation commencing in order for you to have a clear understanding of expected costs.
Additional Services
For some schemes it is necessary that planning applications will need to be submitted. For example, for the construction of garages, brick walls, repositioning of gates, or other garden structures may require a planning application to be submitted to a local authority before construction can commence. When this is the case, Touch of Green will be able to complete this task on your behalf ensuring all necessary drawings and information are submitted in order for the application to be valid.
Similarly, for some schemes it may be necessary to remove an existing tree that you do not wish to be part of redesigned garden. Some tree’s have a Tree Preservation Order on them or if you live in a Conservation Area many trees are automatically protected. In either situation, an application will need to be submitted in order for the tree to be felled. Touch of Green can complete the necessary forms on your behalf if you need us to.
