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Step 1

Say Hello

Introduction


A good place to start is to have a friendly chat over a cuppa to discuss initial ideas and begin the process of creating your garden.

© Jo Sheldrake Tina Phillpotts (2)_edite

Step 2

Site Visit
 

An initial consultation

(a video link for clients who live remotely)

  • ​​​Explore ideas and establish the vision for  your outdoor space.

  • Check the soil condition

  • Take notes of existing features

  • Take some photos of the site

  • Check the access 

  • Discuss budgets

My Process
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Step 3

Site Analysis and Survey
 

Site Inventory and Analysis: Key components such as the house, location, sheds, garages, patios, fences, walls, sun and shade patterns, utilities, existing trees and plants, surrounding landscapes and soil are noted.

 

This information is then evaluated and recommendations are proposed as to what should be changed, moved or replaced. For example, if a tree needs removing to open up a view.

Survey: A survey of your site needs to be carried out either by myself or a professional surveyor to create a map of the garden. Measurements of your garden are used to create an accurate scaled drawing.

Soil test: The soil is also tested for its PH level.

​Please note the survey will incur a cost.

 

Step 4
Make a start on a concept design

 

Once the design brief and measurements are finalised, I can begin the process creating a concept design in the form of a functional scale drawing will be presented to you for your approval.

This will be a good time to consider and discuss any revisions before finalizing the colors, textures and materials.

Design Process (1).jpg
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Step 5
Concept Design with Key Structural Plants

This gives you an idea of the proposed layout of the garden including key structural trees and shrubs. This is a good time to revise the plan with any new ideas and changes. 

The plan may be modified a couple of times. Any additional revisions will be subject to an extra cost.

Step 6
Design showcasing hard landscaping

A rendered drawing provides a clear overhead view of the layout and color scheme, focusing on essential features and building blocks. It highlights key elements like fencing, pathways, paving, seating, raised beds and pergolas, giving you a strong sense of the overall design. 

Garden Designers in Harpenden

Garden Designers in London

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Step 7
Master Plan 

The master plan is a detailed final drawing which includes the plant list, an elevation drawing and an axonometric diagram if required. It will be presented along with any necessary separate detailed construction drawings.

These plans serve as an essential guide for designers and landscapers to work from during the build of a garden. They provide a framework that ensures all elements, from patios to planting, are integrated in a practical and aesthetically pleasing manner before and during construction.

  By following this plan, costly errors can be avoided and landscapers can prepare accurate quotes, ensuring that the build and planting proceed smoothly.

This plan will be presented either in person or via email for your convenience.

Garden Consultation in Harpenden

Step 8
Complete Drawing  (optional)
A rendered 3D drawing of your garden design offers you a visualisation and understanding of the design  before construction begins. It enables you to see how the vertical elements like plants, trees and structures such as garden rooms or pergolas will look.

Serenity Garden Final Rendered Version M

Serenity Show Garden by Jo Sheldrake Garden design 2025

 Planting, Design and Development Service

If you do not require a complete redesign, I offer bespoke planting plans for any landscape large or small. 

Contact
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