Tim Mackley provides a professional design service to deliver a garden that meets your needs, tastes and budget, through a collaborative step by step process. The typical design process is as follows:

Initial Consultation

A meeting to discuss the brief and view the garden. Following this consultation you will be sent a fee proposal detailing the design fees. Once accepted by you, work on the design will commence.

Site Survey & Analysis

A comprehensive survey of the existing garden to record measurements, levels, features, boundaries, access, good and bad views, plants, trees, aspect and soil analysis. Using this information a scale survey plan is produced from which the design is worked on.

Outline Proposals / Concept Plan

You will be presented with a concept plan showing the proposed layout including features, materials, trees and style of planting. This may be supplemented with 3D imagery, elevations, cross sections, a mood board and material samples to help you visualise the garden. The concept plan is open to discussion and any changes can be agreed at this stage.

 Master Plan

The final master plan incorporates any agreed changes to illustrate the overall garden layout, structures, hard landscaping, type of materials, changes in level, trees and areas of planting (but not individual plants).

Design Detail and Specifications

A scope of works document, dimensioned setting out plans and, if required, construction drawings are produced to enable landscapers to accurately quote for and build the garden.

Planting Plan & Plant Schedule

The planting plan shows the names and position of all the plants in the garden, accompanied by a plant schedule that lists all the plant sizes and quantities to order.  All plant selection takes into account each plant’s aesthetic qualities (texture, form, colour, seasons of interest and eventual size) as well as their horticultural requirements (site conditions, soil type and maintenance).

Tendering & Construction (Hard Landscaping)

Reputable landscape contractors will be invited to tender for the build of your garden based on the drawings and documents supplied. Tim Mackley can guide you through this process and nominate landscapers. Alternatively, you may prefer to appoint your own contractor.

Project Monitoring

If required, Tim Mackley offers a project monitoring service with regular site inspections to oversee the build of the garden.

Plant Supply and Planting

Tim Mackley can source and supply plants and provides a planting service to complete your garden. This includes soil preparation and improvement to help ensure plants establish well and thrive.

Maintenance Schedules and After Care

To help you look after your new garden, maintenance schedules with advice on plant care can be provided. Tim Mackley also offers a seasonal after care service, to check on progress as the garden matures and, if necessary, make any changes.