CREATIVE DESIGN. HORTICULTURAL EXPERTISE.
“Stark Strand have completely transformed my city garden which is now such a beautiful space. Sam's extensive plant knowledge and Laura's eye for design are amazing.”
– Deirdre, Norwich
Sam (left) & Laura (right) Photography: Charlotte Gray Photography
We understand that no two gardens, or clients, are the same.
Based in Norfolk, we work across Norfolk and Suffolk, London and further afield. Whether you're starting from scratch, reworking an existing space, or simply looking to refresh your planting, we take time to listen, learn, and develop a design that reflects how you want your garden to feel and function. Our approach is personal and tailored, with an emphasis on creating spaces that are beautiful, enduring, and in tune with their surroundings.
Laura brings 17 years of experience in the design industries, previously working as Head of Design at the renowned diamond jeweller Jessica McCormack. An award-winning jewellery designer, her background gives her a highly refined eye for detail, strong creative direction, and a deep appreciation for materials and technical process — all of which now shape her garden design work.
Sam has over 25 years of hands-on horticultural experience. Her career began at The Savill Garden and has included work with Crocus.co.uk, the National Trust, and as part of the planting team for the Talitha Arts Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2023. She completed an RHS Level 2 qualification through a heritage horticulture traineeship, later working at the historic Holkham Hall. Her extensive plant knowledge and practical insight underpin every planting scheme we create.
We approach every project with care, clarity, and collaboration — whether we’re designing an entire garden or reworking a border. If you feel we might be the right fit for your garden, we’d love to hear from you.
AWARDS & HIGHLIGHTS
RHS Sandringham Flower Show 2026: Commissioned by the RHS to create a feature garden for the inaugural RHS Sandringham Flower Show
Chelsea in Bloom 2025 for Jessica McCormack: Gold award
RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2025: Gold Medal & Best City Pocket Planting
Chelsea in Bloom 2025 for Jessica McCormack: Best Floral Display
Our design services
Full Service Garden Design
Every project begins with an on-site consultation, where we take the time to walk the garden with you, understand your needs and aspirations, and discuss how you’d like to use the space. Following the visit, we prepare a written brief alongside a tailored fee estimate, giving you a clear sense of the scope and potential costs before design work begins. Learn more >
Border Design
Planting brings your garden to life, adding seasonal interest, structure, texture and atmosphere. If you don’t require a full garden design, our planting design service is ideal for refreshing existing borders or reimagining part of your garden. We work with you to develop a thoughtful planting scheme, carefully selecting plants to create the colour, character and feeling you want from your garden, with interest throughout the seasons.
Design Consultancy
Our design consultancy service is ideal if you do not require a full garden design but are looking for professional guidance and fresh ideas. This 90-minute in-person visit, conducted by Sam and Laura, is available for gardens within approximately 1 hour of Norwich and is tailored to your specific needs.