Sarah Harston Garden Design can help you with every step of the garden design process.

• Step 1 - Explore the purpose of the garden - Sarah will conduct a consultation about what the garden will be used for and who will use it.  The list is endless; but you might be looking for one or more of the following things:
  • seating and dining areas;
  • a space for entertaining friends and family;
  • an uplifting garden view from a window;
  • a place for relaxation and contemplation;
  • space for children to play;
  • barbecue, fire pit or garden kitchen areas;
  • productive areas for fruit and/or vegetables;
  • a wildlife friendly garden;
  • particular requirements for people who are disabled or suffering from ill health;
  • a more welcoming driveway;
  • a communal garden for employees or the general public; and/or
  • a whole re-imagination of your outdoor space.
• Step 2 - Site appraisal and survey - this includes:
  • taking measurements of the garden so that accurate plans can be drawn up;
  • observing the characteristics of the site; such as how the sun moves relative to the plot and soil type; and
  • assessing existing features (trees, plants, buildings, etc) and considering if/how they are to be included in the new design.

• Step 3 - Concept designs -  the client is then presented with several concept designs along with mood boards (photos of potential plants and features) for discussion.
• Step 4 - Final design - once the concept has been agreed, the final design is drawn up.
• Step 5 - Detailed plans - detailed plans may be needed to accompany the final design. For example:
  • ground work plans showing the location and dimensions of paths, steps, walls, etc;
  • specifications for arches, pergolas, garden buildings, materials, ponds, etc
  • plant lists; and
  • planting plans showing the location of individual plants in each area of the garden.
• Step 6 - Garden build - please see the Garden Project Management page