GARDEN DESIGN PROCESS
Thank you for your interest in Linda Hannan Garden Design services. I am available for consultations, to assist in the renovation of an established property, or to develop garden designs for new construction. It is important that you are aware of the design process from the very beginning so that there are no surprises as the job develops.
Initial Site Visit
During the initial interview, we will walk through your property and discuss your vision for the development of your garden. We will focus on the existing elements and determine what features you find attractive and what you would like to see changed. It is very helpful if you can clip pictures from garden magazines that illustrate your likes or dislikes in garden design. I have a large collection of gardening books and hundreds of pictures in my design notebooks that you are welcome to use. After the interview, I will be able to give you an approximate estimate of the cost of design services so that you can determine if you wish to proceed with the project.
Base Map
I will then take detailed property measurements that include the footprint of your residence and any outbuildings on the property. All significant geographical details and property lines will be established. Priority gardening areas are determined at this time and significant trees, shrubs or any other major landmarks are noted. Photos are taken from various angles so that I have an accurate representation of the property while working off site. At this time, I will also make a site analysis and note any aspects of the property that will affect the final design (i.e., direction of prevailing winds, possible location of play structures, or best locations for establishing a vegetable garden).
If the property has a difficult problem and a geotechnical survey is required or elevations and slopes are to be determined, I can recommend a qualified professional.
Concepts
A base map of the property is then drafted and used to develop an overall plan for hardscape features such as walkways, terraces, and planting beds. These concepts are drawn on tissue paper overlays. Because a concept from a bird’s-eye view is often difficult to understand, I can also develop a perspective drawing of one or more of the priority viewpoints of the design if requested. This attention to detail helps to communicate the design intention and helps to insure a mutual understanding of how the garden will develop.
We will then meet to review the concepts and make any necessary changes. Perhaps you like how the water feature was developed on one concept but prefer the terrace design on another concept. This is an interactive relationship and your ideas and needs are very important to the design process. All requested changes are noted and a final concept is developed and presented to you for your approval.