DESIGN PROCESS

Consultation

The design process starts with a site visit and initial consultation. The priority for this meeting is to understand your goals for the garden, your budget, as well as getting a feel for the existing space. After our first meeting, a design contract is sent to you which outlines the fee structure, design process, and a summary of our discussion.

Concept Design

The next step is a survey of the site. This involves site analysis and general inventory of existing site features which may include drainage, paving, existing structures and plantings. Based on the comprehensive survey comes a formulation of design concepts, creation of scaled ground plans and sketches defining the general concept of landscape design for the property. A mood board is created to support the concept and help with visualization.

The Concept Plan will cover basic information including layout and suggested materials for planted areas, paving, steps, walls and fences. At this stage, the focus is very much on the layout, rather than specific details.

Developed Design

After the concept plan has been approved and agreed to, its time to develop the design through a set of drawings for an overall masterplan. Specific materials will be selected for the hardscape and built structures, as well as specifics for water features, a plant list and garden furniture, pots, planters and window boxes. An outdoor lighting specialist will be brought in to produce lighting plans based on all of these details.

Form to Function

A set of drawings is sent to contractors to quote. AHGD works with a range of trusted contractors who are reliable, professional and have a high level of attention to detail. Once the build is underway, there are regular site visits to monitor progress, respond to changes and ensure the project is built according to the plans. Annabelle will personally set out plants when it is time for planting. And once the installation is complete, a list of landscape maintenance contractors are shared as a resource for you as well. This is not required but highly recommended.

If a full garden design plan is not what you’re looking for and you merely need some advice with your garden, Annabelle offers consultations.

Maybe you need help with a section of the garden, plant selection or gearing up for an event or party.

Consultations are based on an hourly rate with a three hour minimum at $125 per hour.

This includes an in person meeting at the site, followed by notes emailed in a document with pictures or other supporting information.