You want to do something with your garden.
It’s a common occurrence, that sometimes we get to a point where we would like to do something with our garden. That something bugs you, and after looking at Pinterest wondering through the aisle at Bunnings and driving yourself crazy you decide that you might need the help of a professional. Before you go through the process of working out who you are going to hire, I would suggest you ask yourself the questions below and work out which category you fit into.
First Question – I know exactly what I want?
If you know exactly what you would like to do it might be best to go straight to a landscape contractor. Someone who can take your idea and build it. Some contractors also have designers in house so if it needs a little refining then it might be best to talk to some of these companies. Other companies may just be able to build your idea from descriptions, images, and photos. Get them to come and look at your space and get a good understanding of their services and what they will do before going ahead.
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash
Second Question – I have a vague idea of what I would like?
You might have a Pinterest board full of images. You might know you want a pool, you hate frangipanis, and that you would like an outdoor dining area. But when it comes to where they go and what it looks like your lost. This is probably a good time to start looking to call a landscape architect or landscape designer. Their job is to take your vague idea and turn it into something that could be built.
You need to note there is a difference between a landscape architect and a landscape designer. A landscape designer is normally a horticultural specialist who has studied a TAFE diploma in landscape design. Their work normally focuses on residential, or small commercial projects.
A landscape architect has studied a university degree and normally has some type of post-bachelor’s degree qualification. Some do work on residential projects. However, they also work on much larger projects including schools, commercial developments, parks, roads, playgrounds, national parks, holiday resorts, and sports complexes they may specialise in regional planning, visual assessment or a range of other services.
Have a think about who would be most suitable for your project.
Photo by Sonnie Hiles on Unsplash
Third Question – I have no idea of what I would like?
I would strongly suggest you do a google search and have a look around and find images of gardens you like or don’t like. Sometimes telling a designer you don’t like something is just as important as telling them what you do like.
Think about how you would like to use your garden. What you would like to be doing in your yard once it’s finished? What would you like it to feel like (tropical paradise or modern retreat)? Once you have some idea then contact a professional designer. Our job is to take your ideas and turn them into something you want. A good designer should be able to help you figure this out.
My next blog post will focus on how to choose the right designer for you.
Contact us today to have a chat and see if we are the right designer for you.