How we work

.01

Consultation

At the initial on-site consultation Claire will explore the space, its challenges and potential. Discuss and understand your desires for the garden. Budget will be discussed please see below for more information. A thorough client brief will be drawn from this visit.

.02

Site Survey

A site survey of your garden will be conducted. Measuring and photographing to record in detail existing features, trees and buildings, levels & soil as well as analysing character and atmosphere. For larger gardens a land surveyor may be required.

.03

Concept Plan

The concept plan is developed and presented to you. CAD generated drawings for clarity including perspectives, material samples as well as plans and elevations. This stage is the most opportune to ensure all elements of the design are on brief and make any changes if necessary.

.04

Masterplan

Once the concept plan has been approved a set of detailed drawings are produced from which the landscape contractor can accurately use to quote and build the garden. Setting out plans, elevations, construction drawings and specification, along with planting & lighting plans are drawn-up. Planning applications can also be submitted.

.05

Build

We have a strong relationship with preferred contractors due to their high standard of workmanship and experience. The build is monitored with timely on-site visits to ensure the garden is built to the specification. We advise against using trades other than landscape contractors to build your garden. They can be unfamiliar with landscape construction practices and this can lead to poor construction and issues further down the line.

.06

Aftercare

On-going care of your garden is crucial in the establishment of planting and to maintain the appearance for years to come. We provide guidance and tips and can also recommend garden maintenance services.

The design studio

The design studio is located on Bristol harbour, tucked beside Banksy’s Girl with a Pierced Eardrum. This is where the untapped potential of a your garden is realised. Once the site survey is translated into CAD, the process begins with pen and paper, before moving back into 3D modelling software to provide you with a realistic depiction of the proposed garden.

Our style is driven by a holistic approach – whereby plants and materials work in harmony, are carefully balanced and considered. Mood and atmosphere is critical in creating enticing spaces. Studying the movement of light through a garden allows us to manipulate shadow and silhouette to create spaces you want to lose yourself in.

Our gardens often include lots of texture, through use of clay, timber, metal and natural stone as well as muted colour palettes. Take timber for instance. Claire’s father was a forester and would make his own furniture, her uncle ran a saw mill.

It’s in her genes to love woodlands and she enjoys designing with timber elements – hazel hurdles, cedar and larch screens, oak pergolas to name but a few.

studio of bristol garden designer
bristol garden design workspace
garden design material samples

our ethos

Bespoke & characterful design

Designing enriching, elevated spaces that are custom for you the individual custodian and tailored to the site conditions. Delivering gardens of substance and style.

Biodiversity & sustainability

Implementing planting schemes that encourage biodiversity. Design decisions that consider and help reduce the environmental impact of construction.

Charitable support

We are a member of the Woodland Trust, supporting their work across the UK in protection and regeneration of woodland, heathland, moorland and grassland habitats.