Garden designer FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the questions homeowners and landscapers commonly ask when first exploring garden design services.

Not always, but having a clear design before construction begins can make a significant difference to the outcome.

A well-considered design helps organise the layout of the garden, address practical issues such as levels or drainage, and give landscapers clear drawings to work from. This often leads to more accurate quotations and a smoother construction process.

Many homeowners choose to involve a garden designer early so that the project is properly planned before work begins.

Full garden design services are available for homeowners across Somerset and surrounding parts of Dorset and Devon.

We also provide single-element garden design and technical drawing services for landscapers and contractors across the UK.

If you are unsure whether your project is within our working area, feel free to get in touch.

Single element design focuses on designing one specific feature within a garden rather than redesigning the entire space.

This might include patios, decking area, driveways, retaining walls, pathways, pergolas or other garden features.

Many homeowners use this service when they want to improve part of their garden but still benefit from a clear, well-considered design before construction

Grounded Landscape Studio focuses on the design side of garden projects.

This means we produce layout drawings, design concepts and construction-ready information that landscapers can use to build the project.

Most clients already have a landscaper in mind or obtain quotations from local contractors once the design is complete.

Yes. In fact, many projects work best when the designer and landscaper collaborate.

A clear design allows landscapers to price the work more accurately and ensures everyone involved understands how the finished garden should look and function.

Single element design and drawing support can often be carried out remotely using photographs, measurements and site information provided by the client or contractor.

Full garden design projects require a site visit, so are typically undertaken within our local working area of Somerset & parts of neighbouring Devon & Dorset.

The information required depends on the type of project, but typically includes:

  • photographs of the garden
  • basic site measurements
  • an outline of how you would like to use the space
  • any inspiration or ideas you have collected

This allows us to begin developing a layout concept and understanding the practical considerations of the site.

If we are commissioned to do a garden design within our local area, we will gather much of this information ourselves in our site visit / consultation process. For single element designs available UK wide, we will discuss what information is required with prospective clients.

Timescales vary depending on the scale of the project and the level of detail required.

Smaller design tasks such as single element designs may be completed relatively quickly, while larger garden layout projects usually involve several stages of design development.

Timescales can be discussed once the scope of the project is understood, but generally fall into the 3-5 week category.

Absolutely. A practical understanding of landscaping costs forms an important part of the design process.

With more than 25 years of experience within the landscaping industry, designs are developed with realistic construction methods and budgets in mind wherever possible.

The cost of garden design depends on the size and complexity of the project and the level of detail required in the drawings.

Once we understand the scope of your project, we can explain the design options available and provide an outline of the associated design costs.

More information on costs are available on our Garden Design section of our website.

If you are considering a garden project and would like to explore design options, the best starting point is simply to get in touch.

We can discuss your ideas, explain how the design process works and help determine whether our services are the right fit for your project.

We also have a contact form shown below each design service on our Garden Design page that you can choose to use to submit your project details.