Perguntas frequentes
What parts of the UK do you cover for garden design projects?
I'm based in Central England near Banbury (Oxfordshire), Stratford-upon-Avon (Warwickshire) and Stow-on-the-Wold (Gloucestershire) and cover the greater Cotswolds area, as well as the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire and Worcestershire.
I'm also happy to discuss projects elsewhere in the UK and overseas.
COVID-19 and social distancing: How does this affect garden design?
The coronavirus pandemic has made many of us realise the health and wellbeing benefits of gardens. A personalised, carefully-considered garden design can help you make the most of your outdoor space. The design is produced remotely, while the construction and planting is all outside, minimising any risk to clients. During our meetings, we can look at your garden while maintaining the recommended social distancing. Plans, artistic impressions and 3D models of your proposed garden can be sent to you electronically. We can then discuss them by phone, video call or whichever method you feel comfortable with. A surveyor, if needed, will only need access to your garden and no contact with clients. Similarly, landscape contractors will be working exclusively outside and keeping their distance.
Why should I hire a garden designer?
A well-designed garden will make the most of your outdoor space and improve your quality of life, whether you want to create somewhere to relax, inspire children to connect with nature, or provide a haven for pollinating insects and other wildlife. A professional garden design can also add value to your home.
I'm a perfectionist and will give your garden design the attention to detail and individual flair it deserves. I also have a life-long passion for gardens and plants, while my background as a zoologist and award-winning travel writer and photographer can add an extra dimension to your garden design. Trained by leading garden designers, Robin Templar-Williams and Moira Farnham, I obtained a distinction from the renowned Garden Design School based at the University of Bristol Botanic Gardens.
How can I save money on garden design?
Do you need a garden designer for the whole project? If you only have a small budget, I can help you work on part of your garden. Depending on its size, a new planting plan for a border might only take a day or two. If you would like to employ me for a day’s consultancy, I'll critically assess your garden, take into account what you want to achieve with it and suggest appropriate styles, plants and materials. You’ll get some useful sketches and a plant list – although please bear in mind that these won’t be in enough detail to be used by a landscaper.
How much will my garden design cost?
It's difficult to give a general figure since every garden is so different in terms of size, complexity and the range of features required by the owner. That's why I offer a free, no-obligation site visit to start with. It gives me the opportunity to view your garden and discuss your requirements, time frame and budget. Following this initial meeting, I'll send you a detailed quote. You may also find this blog useful.