Garden Design in Surrey and Sussex

The garden design process begins with understanding how you want to use your space, followed by a site visit to assess layout, soil, aspect and existing features. From there, a tailored design is created, often including layout plans, planting schemes and material suggestions. Once the design is approved, it can be implemented as a full design and build project or handed over for installation.

We offer a flexible, client-led approach, not a one-size-fits-all package. Some clients come to us wanting the full works: concept to completion, project monitoring and long-term aftercare. Others simply need a masterplan to take forward with their own contractors. Both are perfectly valid and we’re happy to accommodate either, or anything in between. What matters to us is that you feel confident and supported, whatever your level of involvement. We’ll guide you through the options, explain the pros and cons, and help you decide what works best for your project, your timeline, and your budget. Because yes, we design gardens but more importantly, we build lasting relationships. And that begins with listening.

Timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, but good gardens don’t happen overnight. On average: The design phase takes around 3–6 months, including site survey, concept development, revisions, and technical detailing. The build phase can take 4–16 weeks or more, depending on scope, season, and contractor availability. Planning ahead is crucial, particularly if you’re aiming for a specific deadline.

A garden designer focuses on the creative and technical planning of the space, including layout, planting and materials. A landscaper typically carries out the physical build. Some studios combine both, but they often employ junior designers with the aim of them doing the construction. This can limit your choice and opportunities.

Yes. Existing trees, planting, structures and features are assessed during the design process and incorporated wherever possible. Retaining mature planting or character features often adds depth and maturity to a new garden design.

Every garden, no matter how small or expansive, works best when designed as a cohesive whole. A piecemeal approach may seem like a shortcut, but it often leads to compromises in layout, flow and overall impact. That’s why we begin every p roject with a masterplan, a complete vision that ensures all the elements work in harmony, even if they’re implemented in stages. Of course, time and budget constraints are real. Phasing a garden build is a sensible, often necessary choice. But by designing with the entire space in mind from the outset, we future-proof your investment. You avoid costly rework and each phase slots seamlessly into the next when you’re ready. So yes, we can start with a section, but we will make sure it’s part of something greater.

Garden design costs vary depending on garden size, complexity and the level of detail required. Professional design is an investment in long-term usability, aesthetics and property value. Following an initial consultation, a clear proposal is provided outlining scope and costs.

Landscaping is a highly skilled and sought after profession, and the cost implications of this labour are so often misjudged. A skilled landscaper comes at an expense, much like a good builder, carpenter, plumber or electrician might. By way of comparison, a respectable design studio produces the same amount of detailed work as an architect. In our honest opinion, buy cheap buy twice. If you design, plan and build your garden properly with skilled professionals, quality materials and use a “right plant, right place” mentality you are well on your way for a long-lasting, quality, outdoor space.

Design services are tailored to each project, but clear pricing is provided upfront following consultation. This ensures clients understand what is included and can plan budgets confidently.

Great design isn’t about size, it’s about vision. We don’t measure the worth of a garden by square footage. Some of our most rewarding projects have been small, characterful spaces where every inch matters. From colourful contemporary courtyards to bijoux urban plots, we approach each one with the same care, creativity, and rigour as we would a sprawling country estate. In fact, smaller gardens often demand more ingenuity. With less room to hide mistakes and every feature pulling double duty, good design becomes essential, not optional. And the result? A space that feels bigger, functions better, and reflects your lifestyle beautifully.

Techniques such as layered planting, changes in level, reflective surfaces and clear sightlines help create the illusion of space. A cohesive design also avoids clutter, allowing the garden to feel calm and balanced.

Yes. Sloping gardens offer great opportunities for terraces, raised beds and defined zones. Careful planning ensures practical access, drainage and strong visual flow throughout the space.

Yes, and we consider it essential. A garden isn’t finished the day it’s planted. It needs care, attention, and understanding to grow into its full potential. That’s why we offer a tailored aftercare service, delivered by our in-house maintenance team. We’re not a mow-and-go outfit, we offer horticulturally-led care that’s in tune with your planting style and seasonal requirements. This includes border maintenance, pruning, soil improvement, pest and disease management, and long-term plant development. Whether it’s regular visits or seasonal refreshes, we’ll help ensure your garden doesn’t just survive, it thrives.