Service:
Nicholas Phillips Designs will oversee your garden project from inception to completion.
I design all aspects of the garden, including garden buildings and planning permission applications where required. Once design work is complete, I will organise and oversee the construction using trusted contractors.
Below, you will find a detailed guide outlining the ten phases of work required to deliver an entire garden design and build, complete with time-scale estimates.
Phase 1: Introduction
Introductory phone call
1st site visit
Timing 1-5 days
We will begin with a phone call to discuss your initial questions and to arrange the site visit.
During the 1st site visit, I will get a good understanding of your aspirations for the garden and a feel for the existing space. Then I will showcase a design project and explain the design process.
Following this, a written brief is sent to you, which outlines the fee structure, design process, and a comprehensive brief summarising your ambitions for the garden.
Phase 2: CONsultation
Topographical Survey
2nd Site Visit
Presentation of Brief
Initial Ideas
Timing: 2-3 weeks
Phase 2 is a good opportunity to refine the brief together once we have a clear topographical plan to consult detailing the features and utilities. This will be conducted by a third party for accuracy, prior to our meeting.
We will discuss inspiration images, compiled after the first visit, and then we will sketch some early plans or moments in real time and walk these ideas out in the space. I will take further images and videos of the existing garden before commencing design.
Following this second visit, I will refine the initial brief and send it back to you for your approval. Once approved, this will form the instructions for our design work moving forwards.
Phase 3: CONCEPT DESIGN
Sketch plan
Associated Mood-board
Draft costings
1st Design presentation and feedback meeting
Revisions
Timing 2-4 weeks
The concept design phase is largely focused on spatial organisation. Using a 2D plan and mood-board as a guide and 3D sketches where necessary, I will demonstrate the flow of spaces and location of all the key features you desire. This document is a draft and will often contain options for your decision. Initial costings will be made based on industry data that correlate to the quality we are aiming for.
Phase 4: DEVELOPED DESIGN
Concept Plan
Refined Mood-boards
3D Visuals
2nd Design presentation and feedback meeting
Updated costings
Options and Revisions
Timing: 2-4 Weeks
Produced after the concept design has been agreed, these drawings develop the chosen concept layout into an overall masterplan. Material palettes, spatial arrangements and locations, as well as a planting palette with general character of the planting will be proposed. 3D imagery is developed further to give a real sense of space.
Phase 5: Planting Design
Planting plans by layer (bulb, perennial, shrub, etc.)
Mood-board of plants by season.
Timings: 1-2 weeks
Having presented an initial planting palette in the previous phase, a comprehensive set of planting plans will be drawn up. These planting plans show the locations of all the proposed plants, along with a plant schedule listing exact names, sizes and quantities used for costing, ordering and setting out plants. A mood-board of all plants is included so that you get a feel for the look we are aiming to achieve. A maintenance schedule for these plants is supplied as part of Phase 9.
Phase 6: Detail Design
Master plan
Surfaces & Quantities Plan
Construction and hard landscaping details
Product & material specification
Irrigation & Drainage plan
Features & Furniture plan
Lighting Design
Design presentation and feedback meeting
Final project costings & revisions
Timing: 2-4 Weeks
The master plan is a finalised annotated 2D overview of the entire site, allowing for phasing of the project, if needed. Once confirmed, we proceed to generate a comprehensive set of detailed plans, drawings, and elevations. These documents will include the planting plans and everything from lighting layouts to construction details. A setting out plan ensures precise construction alignment, and a materials table correlates all material quantities to the plan.
Soft landscaping and construction details guide contractors through foundations to material interactions and construction methods. A product and material specification for each element in your space, is also produced.
The plans extend to an irrigation layout covering tap locations, ducting beneath hard landscaping, and soaker hose lines. Drainage plans address paved areas, slot drains and permeable paving. A boundary and edging plan highlights new treatments and defines edges. The lighting design integrates 2D planning and 3D visualisations, strategically placing fixtures for an enhanced outdoor experience. A features and furniture plan details planters, sculptures, fires, and more, summarised in a table for cost discussion.
I will arrange a third presentation meeting for detailed discussions. Accurate final costs provide a clear project overview. A third round of revisions and value engineering, if required, ensure alignment with your budget before proceeding.
Design Completion
For the majority of my clients I typically move on to my further recommend services below, a quote can be provided for these at this stage.
Phase 7: Landscaping
Introduction to the best-suited contractor for your project
Onsite meeting
Monitoring of landscaper final costings
Project works schedule
Product and material order schedule
Plant sourcing and supply
Plant setting out
Timing: Our landscaping contractors typically work on a 3-4 month schedule from a completed design
Your completed design is ready for my recommended contractors to plan your landscaping. You may appoint a landscaper of your choosing if you so wish, otherwise, I match you with the best-suited landscaper based on location, schedule, garden size, and design complexity. Your concept and developed design are shared with the chosen landscaper for familiarisation before a formal introduction.
All recommended landscapers are vetted and are typically members of landscaping governing bodies and the best in the business. An onsite meeting is arranged for parties to discuss project details, potential start dates, and for you to get to know the contractor. Specialists such as pool companies, garden building suppliers, and engineers are introduced if needed.
Final costs from the main landscaper and specialist trades are reviewed, ensuring transparency. I work on a project works schedule to ensure completion within a reasonable timeframe. I collaborate with top growers and nurseries in the UK and Europe, sourcing specified tree and plant species at wholesale prices. Delivery to the site is coordinated when landscaping contractors are ready, ensuring a seamless process with healthy plants.
I will personally set out the plants when the build is complete.
Phase 8: Project Monitoring
Project monitoring service
Scheduled site meetings and inspections
Meeting notes and reports
During your project monitoring I actively oversee the project until completion. Scheduled site meetings and inspections, usually at fortnightly, align with the contractor's work schedule and key project stages. This proactive approach ensures I can promptly address any questions, resolve issues, and adapt plans if unforeseen challenges arise. Serving as a neutral intermediary, I provide feedback to both you and the contractor to ensure the garden is constructed true to the design, facilitating a smooth project execution.
You are welcome to join us on-site during these visits, and I'll coordinate a convenient time for all parties to address any questions or concerns. It's important to note that, for immediate construction queries, the contractor will be your daily contact.
Phase 9: Maintenance Schedule and Contractor
Maintenance schedule
Introduction to recommended maintenance contractor (if required)
Once the landscaping is underway I shift my focus to ensuring the long-term plan of your garden and your investment. I develop a detailed maintenance schedule outlining tasks for each week, month, and season. This comprehensive plan covers all aspects, from tending to new perennials and hedges to lawn care, alleviating the stress of maintaining your garden year-round.
If you opt for professional maintenance assistance, I will introduce you to our recommended maintenance contractors. My curated list includes vetted professionals, ranging from general gardeners to tree surgeons. By coordinating the maintenance schedule and connecting you with a reliable contractor, we provide peace of mind that your investment will be well-cared for in the years to come.
Phase 10: Handover
Final review of finished garden
Snagging list and report
Sign off of project
In the concluding step, I conduct a final review of your finished garden before the landscapers apply the finishing touches. During this site visit, I ensure that every aspect has been executed to the highest standards.
Following this, I collaborate with the contractors to create a snagging list: a compilation of items that require completion before the final sign-off. This meticulous process ensures that any outstanding details are addressed comprehensively.
Upon satisfaction from all parties involved, the project is officially signed off, and your garden is handed over to you, ready to be enjoyed.
*All timings are dependent on the complexity and size of your project alongside any required revisions.
For your peace of mind, I offer a full round of revisions at each design stage, on top of the initial options I present. I want your input and feedback every step of the way to ensure our design is just right for you.
Start the Process: If you would like to begin your garden transformation today, please enquire below. I would be delighted to hear from you.
