LANDSCAPE DESIGN: CONSULT, DESIGN, BUILD
At Gunn Design Landscape Design & Construction, we aim to be involved in the whole design and build process – bringing a project right through from initial consultation to the finished built landscape.
This process allows us to maintain a close partnership with our clients throughout the life of the project.
We cover all aspects of the design and build process. Our focus is on the landscape design features where we can add value through our design and build skills, bringing in sub-contractors where necessary.
LANDSCAPE DESIGN CONSULTATION
A garden design consultation is all about having a conversation to find out what you want and to explore possible ideas for your garden design.
What is a well thought out garden design?
This is a subjective concept - but ultimately a garden design should meet your needs and desires. What do you hope to achieve, the reasons are diverse - privacy, places to play and relax, to increase the desirability of your property for resale?
An overall garden design
Having an overall garden design will provide you with a cohesive look and feel for your property. Too often a garden can seem composed of components that have no relationship with each other. A good garden design will consider your needs and wants, the built structures that are on your property, the local environment in which you are situated, and the physical aspects which are unique to your property.
Things to consider when designing your garden
Among the things to consider are: colour, contrast, texture, form, scale, balance, light, and pattern. And importantly, budget. Through discussion and design work, potential problems can be identified and solutions devised to mitigate their impact before any physical work begins. This will save you time and money in the long run. An overall garden design provides you with a unified vision for your property and a plan for achieving this vision.
Our role
We bring design experience and creative inspiration, plant knowledge, an understanding of the costs and practicalities associated with landscape construction, and an unbiased eye to your property. Together, through a collaborative design process, a garden design that suits your needs is developed.
LANDSCAPE DESIGN PROCESS
Concept ideas – This stage is all about getting ideas flowing and presenting them to the you in a cost effective way. This will allow you to visualise the direction that we aim to take with the design.
These ideas can include quick sketches, plan drawings, 3D presentations, or a combination of images and discussion.
If the site and the design is dependent on changes in level, such as on a hill site with retaining, varying deck levels and steps, then we will combine actual site levels into these initial ideas.
Doing this during the initial concept design process enables us to ensure that the design is going to work in practise.
Concept plans – Once agreement has been reached on the direction the landscape design is taking, we start refining these ideas. These ideas are then presented to the you in a concept plan.
Detailing – If necessary, detailed drawings are produced for any technical and building consent issues.
Consent application – We can handle the consent application and approval process if this is required.
Project management – Quotes and estimates are obtained, sub-contractors are engaged if necessary, and a project schedule is developed for implementing your landscape design.
LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION AND BUILD
PLANTING STYLES
There are many types of plants and people often have strong views over what they like and dislike. Choosing a style of planting that suits you and your particular garden situation is important. To achieve the best outcome, a thorough consideration of your requirements is essential.
Changes over time and the seasons
Planting changes over time and with the seasons. Planning the planting to develop and grow in a way that fits with the overall garden design is a key design consideration. Sometimes the planting itself is the focus of the garden design, and sometimes the planting is combined in ways to frame views and to create shade, shelter and privacy.
Native & exotic plants have a place
Both native and exotic plants have a place in our gardens. Using native plants helps to increase the diversity and habitats for our native wildlife. And natives plants are often hardy. However, natives are not always the best option and exotic species also have a part in our environment and garden history.
Tom was easy to talk to and a good listener which made the discussion of ideas very easy and exciting.
We received very clear concept plans of a few different options.
We absolutely love the final concept plan and are very excited about having the work carried out.
We are so happy with Tom's work so far that we feel very confident in having Gunn Design complete the project.
-- Sara and Andrew, Christchurch
Shaping the land – Often the land will need to be shaped, especially on hillside properties, to accommodate pathways, entertainment areas, etc. Shaping the land is the first step in implementing most plans.
Building structures – Next comes building garden structures such as retaining walls, decks, pathways, steps, and pergolas.
Sculpt – Incorporating artworks into the landscape, such as water features, can help to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Plant – Once the hard structures have been built the planting is done.
