Our design process
Every garden we create begins with a conversation. At Stark Strand Garden Design, we take a collaborative and tailored approach, taking the time to listen carefully to your ideas, understand how you want to use your space, and work with you to shape a garden that feels truly personal.Our design process is structured into clear stages, offering a framework to help guide your project from concept to completion. Each garden is unique, and we adapt our approach to suit the scale, budget, and level of involvement that’s right for you.
Consultation
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.
Planting Design
Planting is a vital part of how a garden feels and functions throughout the seasons. Once the garden layout is finalised, we develop a detailed planting design tailored to your site conditions, maintenance preferences, and aesthetic style. This includes a scaled planting plan, a visual plant list to help you imagine the overall look and palette, and a plant schedule with quantities and specifications to support sourcing and implementation.
Concept
Before we begin the concept design, a topographical survey of the site is required. We then develop a set of drawings and visuals to communicate the overall feel and layout of the garden. This may include a scaled concept plan, mood boards, and initial material and planting suggestions. We'll present the concept in person and walk you through the thinking behind it, welcoming your feedback so we can refine the vision together.
Project Monitoring
During the build phase, we offer project monitoring to help ensure the design is delivered in line with the original vision. This may include site visits, reviewing progress, and responding to design-related queries as they arise. While we do not provide full project management, our involvement helps maintain design integrity and allows us to offer guidance throughout the build. We are on hand to support you during this stage and to liaise with the contractor as needed.
Detailed design
With the concept agreed, we progress to the detailed design stage. Here, the design is finalised and developed into a fully resolved scheme. This stage typically includes a masterplan, construction drawings, setting-out plans, and specifications for materials and finishes as necessary. The level of detail is tailored to the needs of the project, ensuring that the design can be accurately priced and delivered as intended.
Plant Sourcing
We source plants through trusted nurseries, ensuring healthy, high-quality plants. Once delivered to site, we will set out the plants, ensuring the best placement for each. This allows for final adjustments and helps the planting come to life as intended. We can also coordinate with professional gardeners to carry out the planting.