My
work ranges from individual elements to full gardens and landscaping. I
can design and consult on projects anywhere, and I am happy to discuss
the level of my involvement, but I only construct and make gardens in
and around London.
First consultation
To
start with, I would recommend an initial consultation. We can discuss
your garden in general terms, and I can show you examples of work that
may be helpful. As long as it is in the London area, the first
consultation is free of charge, and you are under no obligation to
proceed should you choose not to.
Survey and briefing
If
you do choose to go ahead with my help, I would then return for a
meeting to discuss the work in more detail, and I would be getting
information from you - we would be creating a brief, and I would also be
taking any necessary information from the existing garden - a survey.
If you are not absolutely sure of what you want, don't be concerned - at
this stage we should discuss any elements required, layout, budget etc.
and I can advise on any aspect of the project. This consultation
meeting - the briefing and survey - is charged for, and I would normally
be able to confirm the cost beforehand. In some cases I would also be
able to tell you the cost of the first presentation at this time. In any
case, I will tell you the cost of the first presentation before I
proceed with any further work
Design, estimate and presentation
Work
would then begin on the design. In most cases I would be working on the
costs too, and they would be supplied with the drawings. If any points
or ideas come to mind during this time, I am happy to hear them, so that
the presented scheme includes all the right elements. If we have
discussed choices in the briefing, then I can present a number of
options. I usually prefer to present the drawings and costs in
person, as I am then able to discuss and explain any points immediately,
though I can also send the work if required.
Presentation will include plans, views, and any visuals which are helpful.
I am pleased to say,
that the first presentation usually contains a design that is favoured,
and any further design work is usually detailing. If any considerable
further drawing is requested, then it is charged on an hourly basis,
with a likely total cost given in advance.Upon
agreement of the design and costs, we can then schedule in the work.
Payment for the design work so far, is payable at this time, and before
any implementation is started.
Implementation - construction
I
work with a small team on medium sized projects, and I am on site most
of the time, so available to discuss details and progress in person. All
work is undertaken with the least possible intrusion on the household.
Where materials etc. have to be brought through the house, we always
ensure that protective material is used on floors and walls if
necessary.
Construction is carried out with care
and attention to detail
Implementation - soft landscaping
This
part of the work would normally be taken on towards the end of the
project. Normally I would present a detailed plant plan once the
constructions are completed, and we can see the shape of the garden.
Upon approval, the plants are sourced, supplied and planted, and if
included, the lawn area is prepared, and turf is laid.
Planting is usually done after construction
and a lawn usually last of all.
Payments
Details
of payments will be agreed at the design stages. Generally, a
proportion of the cost is paid on commencement of work, with staged
payments thereafter, depending on the size of the project, the balance
paid on completion.
Garden maintenance and aftercare
Although
I do not undertake routine maintenance, I would be happy to discuss
seasonal visits to assess the garden and do any work necessary to keep
the garden in the best condition.