Process

Garden Design elements

My initial contact with a client is usually through a family member, occupational therapist (OT), or case manager who either phones or emails me. At this point I try to get an idea of what is required, whether I am able to help, and if so how soon the work needs to be done. We then make an appointment for a visit. At this stage I usually ask that the client makes a list of what is required within the garden. Such a list might include:

• The garden has to look like a normal garden (often the most important criteria)
• Accessible flower beds
• A small, accessible vegetable garden
• Accessible lawns in all weathers, either by wheelchair or foot
• Views from within the garden
• Views from the house into the garden
• A place to sit with friends
• Low maintenance
• Privacy
• Colour
• Patio
• Car parking area
• Easy access into and out of the house

A list, however is not absolutely vital, because it can become part of the next, most important stage. This is the initial meeting where my job is to listen and interpret what the client wants. From this comes the initial 'brief' from which all work flows. Up to this point no charge is made, except for travel expenses.

Dependant on the circumstances with the initial brief will come an outline sketch, and my terms and conditions of work. If the client is happy with what is proposed we can then proceed to design and costings for building/implementing what is required in the garden.

The design process can either be done as a one off, or it can be staged over a period of time. The most important element is that the client feels comfortable with what is going on and the pace with which it can be carried out.