The design process

It has been said that landscape design is the most comprehensive of the arts requiring the eye of an artist, the heart of a poet and the mind of a scientist. 

The design process certainly must encompass aesthetics, utility and practicality, and a concern for ecology and sustainability. 

The designer must be concerned with the needs and preferences of the client as well as the potential and the problems that the site presents – every garden design is unique.

The design process is always iterative between the client, the site and the designer. Design develops from an understanding of what you want, what you like, and what you have.

What do you want?
  • What kinds of spaces do you want?
  • Do you want vegetable gardens? Fruit trees? Children’s play space? A place for outdoor dining and entertaining?
  • Do you want more shade? More sun? Shelter from the wind?
  • Do you want screening from the neighbours? Or connections to the neighbours?

What do you like?
  • What kinds of plants and gardens do you like? Roses and flowering perennials? Hedges? Natives? Sub-tropicals?
  • What colours do you like?
  • Do you like lots of colour? Or a more subdued, subtle look?
  • Do you like to actively work in the garden?

What do you have?
  • How big is your site? How is it oriented to the sun and the prevailing wind?
  • What is your neighbourhood like? What is the age and style of your house?
  • Where are the services such as water pipes and electricity cables on your site?
  • Are there features and plants that you want to keep?


You don’t have to know the answers to all these questions before you start working with a designer. The discussions you have with me and the ideas I present will help you to clarify what you would like.

The design process results in a plan, or set of plans, that either directs the contractor in the implementation of your garden, or provides you with a blueprint for progressive implementation over time. Whichever way you choose to proceed, having a good landscape plan that you are confident in and committed to will save you money in the longer term, and add value to your property.

We all know when we are in a well designed space – we respond with feelings of pleasure, or comfort; relaxation, or excitement. The landscape designer’s job is to ensure that the strategies, elements and devices that go into making an outdoor space so pleasurable are incorporated into your unique garden design.

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