Let us guide you through our garden design process
Our true passion is the plants themselves. By demonstrating a superior knowledge of plants and horticulture Down to Earth will encourage you to plant more of your gardens with varied trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants and vegetables.
1: Consultation
The process will begin with an initial site visit and consultation. Our team will then present a written brief that outlines the next steps, fee structure and final summary of the design ideas discussed and put forward by you.
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After you’ve been in touch, the process will begin with an initial site visit and consultation. The goal is to really understand your aspirations and ideas for the garden, as well as getting a sense of the space and the plants therein. We will discuss existing plants which can then either be moved, divided or removed. Then, our team will present to you a written brief that outlines the next steps, fee structure and final summary of the design ideas discussed and put forward by you.
2: Concept Design
Time to employ the measuring tape. A topographical survey of the site will be carried out, which seeks to outline the layout, elevation and features, that is to understand the desired spaces and atmosphere of the garden.
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Here we will discuss materials, plants and planting styles. A mood board may also be produced to progress creative discussions.
3: Design Development
Once we have agreed on a concept design, we present a series of drawings that expand our initial concept into an overall master plan. This is where we’ll start arranging materials, colours and structures within the space as well as defining the details and build requirements.
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For bigger landscapes, we can develop technical drawings to scale. These indicate lighting, level plans and cross-sections, any necessary information for external specialists, and how the space evolves and changes with the new design.
4: Planting Plan
Often we can incorporate a planting plan into the design but understand that this may be a service you’re looking for exclusively — we can meet both needs.
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This plan shows the locations of all the proposed plants, along with a plant schedule listing plant names, sizes and quantities used for costing, ordering and setting out plants. A maintenance schedule can be supplied alongside this.
5: Implementation
We then transfer paper to reality. DTE is equipped to engage in the overall garden execution, involving other collaborators when more specialist contractors like stone masons or carpenters are required.
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If required, we can supply tender packages to engage external contractors for quotes. Once the build is underway, we offer an additional project management service for regular site visits to monitor progress, respond to changes and ensure the project is built according to the plans. The level of regularity is up to you — it can be as little as a site visit at the be ginning and end of the build, to weekly minuted meetings.
6: Enjoy your new space!
Now its time to sit back and enjoy your garden! We will happily carry on the journey with regular maintenance visits if required or can be contacted as and when advice is needed.
FAQs
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Edinburgh and East Lothian
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Get in touch with us initially to arrange a consultation. Once we have completed the initial visit and walk-around with you, we will provide you with a quotation.
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Yes, we are.
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We buy all our plants and materials from a number of brilliant local suppliers! We work closely with three main plant suppliers: R&B, Macplants and Craigmarloch.
Let us inspire you
Explore some of the completed projects within our portfolio — from small courtyards and family gardens to estates and commercial projects. Our focus is to put forward designs that represent and embrace the uniqueness of the space and client.