Why do I need a designer?
TV makeover programmes make it look easy, but a lot happens behind the scenes. A designer helps you look at your property in a holistic way, to create a more integrated garden using the right materials.
A garden design is an accurate map complete with instructions. You can hand the design to a competent contractor so they can give you a price and build you the scheme.
I just want a new terrace, do I need a new design?
It depends on the scale, complexity and ability of the builder. If it’s a straight replacement, the ground is flat and you know the materials, then you should be able to get quotes. If there are any doubts then a design will give you the protection from things going wrong.
What should I look for in a designer?
Try to find a designer with:
- flair to get you excited about your garden and how it could change.
- experience and understanding to know how gardens are built.
- good knowledge of plants.
- good problem-solving skills to find appropriate solutions.
- good coordination to fit your ideas to the site and budget.
- good listening skills to ensure they understand your needs.
Above all, you want a designer who communicates well, to explain the process, issues, technology and solutions both to you and the contractor.
How do I know I will like the Design?
You can get the best results by going through the process with a designer who listens to your concerns from the beginning and gives you feedback.
How will I know a design will fit my garden?
A successful scheme needs accurate site measurements; part of the cost of carrying out a scheme is the process of drawing up a map. Missing this stage can lead to disappointment, delays and possibly extra costs.
What insurances should a garden designer have?
As a basic minimum you should look for Public Liability and Professional Indemnity insurances. You can also look for designers who work to the Terms and Conditions of the Society of Garden Designers and the Institute of Horticulture.
Can I afford to have my garden designed?
Appropriate attention to the design stage of the process can ensure that expensive mistakes aren’t made later on. A good design will help you get the right costs from a contractor, or give you the information to constructing the garden yourself.
How much should I spend on my garden?
Gauging how much to spend is a personal matter. It can be as false an economy to spend too little as it can be to spend too much. You can treat it in the same way as the rest of your property, allocating a percentage of the value for any improvements. You can decide on your budget and I can advise on what is achievable within that budget.
When you want best value you need to compare like for like, and a good designer will help you get comparable quotes.
Have a look at my projects page for some idea.
veitchgardendesign.co.uk 