GARDEN LANDSCAPING
means evaluating soil quality, drainage and sunlight exposure. This foundational step allows for more informed decisions throughout the course of the project, as well as establishing a realistic budget that covers design, materials and labour.” To begin bringing your dream garden to life, there’s no better place to start than with a good old-fashioned pencil and paper. “Sketching out the garden’s design, including the placement of key features such as garden rooms, patios and water elements, helps to create a cohesive and functional space,” adds Luke. “Selecting the right plants is equally important, so choose species that will thrive in the garden’s specific conditions and complement the overall garden appearance and aesthetic.” Mood boards are your best friend – gather inspiration on Pinterest or similar platforms and seek out a wealth of expert advice from sources such as the RHS website. Visit as many gardens as you can and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The National Garden Scheme gives access to 109 private gardens in Cambridgeshire alone, while National Trust properties and our beloved Cambridge University Botanic Garden are fantastic for a relaxing day out filled with planting inspiration. Lay of the land Depending on the size of your space and scope of your project, expert help might be required for more structural changes. This
1 Assess what’s already in the garden: hardscape that can stay or be reused and plants you might want to keep. 2 Think about how you’d like to use the garden, who will use it and at what times of the year? 3 Consider practicalities such as storage, space to hang out the washing, accessibility and flow of movement. 4 Set a budget for how much you would like to invest in your space, taking into account how long you intend to stay in the property. 5 Research the garden styles and planting schemes that appeal and compare these against your budget. 6 Start assessing your garden to work out where elements would be best positioned based on your garden’s aspect and the variation in sun and shade throughout the year. 7 Investigate your soil type to see what kinds of plants will grow happily there, and check whether there are any legal restrictions that apply to your property, such as tree preservation orders. 8 Measure your plot, recording your measurements on graph paper and noting any level changes, underground services, buildings, hardscape or plants you wish to keep. 9 Get creative! Start with mapping out the fundamentals, such as patios, fences, buildings and paths, to establish the bones of your garden, before adding in the details you want. Plan of attack Sarah Plested, from Hertfordshire-based Bramley Apple Garden Design, shares her key steps to garden design
STYLE GUIDE A garden by Bramley Apple Garden Design’s Sarah Plested for BBC Gardeners’ World Live at Audley End (above) and outdoor illumination by Abbeygate Lighting (below left)
especially applies if you’re looking to install sheds, greenhouses or gazebos. “Luxury gazebo or garden room additions can increase the appeal and functionality of gardens. They serve as a centrepiece, offering a place to retreat to and unwind in after a busy day. Furnishing the gazebo with comfortable pieces, such as a timber dining table and benches, ensures that it becomes a welcoming space to use for entertaining guests,” says Luke. Fencing is also a key consideration – especially for those planning family- or pet-friendly spaces. “We always encourage thinking about both form and function,” continues Leigh from Jacksons Fencing. “Choosing high-quality wooden fencing not only ensures durability and longevity, but also brings natural warmth and beauty to garden designs. Fencing shouldn’t be an afterthought for those planning a redesign or starting afresh. It should be an integral part of the early planning phase, forming the backdrop to any garden renovation.” If garden design really isn’t your bag, consider enlisting the services of a professional landscape garden designer. Cambridge itself has a bounty of talent in the field, including award-winning designer Colm Joseph and family-run business Sylvia Newman Garden Design, alongside a host of others catering to a wide variety of budgets. You’ll be relaxing in that gazebo or hammock in no time!
Seek out a wealth of expert advice from sources such as the RHS website . Visit as many gardens as you can
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