ESC GARDEN DESIGN STUDIO
Pre-registered Member of the Society of Garden Designers
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED...
HOW LONG DOES AN AVERAGE PROJECT TAKE TO COMPLETE?
Every project we undertake is unique and requires a bespoke solution, as such the timescales involved for each project are dependent upon the scope of the work involved. Expansive country projects may be implemented in phases over a number of years, where as the design for an intimate courtyard garden could be completed within months. There are many variables involved which we will discuss with you.
WHAT TYPE OF DESIGN WORK DO YOU SPECIALISE IN?
Emma specialises in sloped sites, large country gardens and exposed coastal locations, as well as highly specified courtyard gardens with a focus on innovative, sustainable planting solutions and thoughtful hard landscape detailing. For specialist projects, such as designing a traditional or natural swimming pool, or where significant earthworks are required, we commission the services of trusted third parties to consult and assist as necessary.
HOW MUCH DOES A DESIGN CONSULTATION COST?
The initial Design Consultation for a full re-design of a garden is a paid for service, should you then choose to proceed with the project the Design Fees will be agreed in writing for each stage of the design process and the initial consultation fee deducted from the first phase of works. Not every situation requires a complete redesign of the space; for clients who wish to reimagine their garden without a complete re-design we offer a Garden Consultation Service, a Garden Styling Service as well as a Planting Design Service. Fees for these services start at £450.00 for a small garden or courtyard space, with a deposit payable in advance, depending on the scope of the work.
WHAT ABOUT THE BUDGET AND DESIGN FEES?
Discussing your budget with you is as crucial to the success of the design process as understanding the requirements for the garden itself. We encourage clients to have an idea of their budget for the initial consultation and remind you that all such matters are confidential. Proceeding in this way ensures that the concept scheme is fit for purpose and helps to avoid delays caused by a redesign or disappointment if the concept scheme is not attainable. Our Design fees are in-line with recommended industry standards and are based on a sliding scale of the end landscape construction cost; approximately from between 18% to 20% at £15,000 to 10% at £100,000. As each design is bespoke there must be some degree of flexibility, for example a steeply sloped site will require a more rigorous design and drawing phase in order to ensure the paper design can be built to our meticulous design specifications.
WHICH AREAS OF THE COUNTRY DO YOU WORK IN?
We are based in the South Hams, Devon and our work is primarily focused in south west England, although Emma has also undertaken international projects where appropriate.
WHAT IS THE SGD AND WHY IS MEMBERSHIP IMPORTANT?
The Society of Garden Designers is the only professional association for Garden Designers. Membership is achieved through a rigorous adjudication process and continued professional development of skills to ensure adherence to industry standards. All members, including pre-registered members, have Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance and have committed to abide by the Society's Code of Conduct.