In larger country gardens sense of place is important, and the garden should reflect its setting and complement the local vernacular, as well as often framing views out to the surrounding countryside. We often utilise naturalistic planting design to create timeless gardens that feel like they have always been there.
This garden in South Devon is set into a clearing in the woods overlooking the River Dart. The modernist architecture is magnificently juxtaposed with its English woodland setting. The garden was designed with cottage garden plants arranged in blocks of single-species echoing the modernist shapes of the architecture, and the landscaping allows glimpses out into the woods beyond.
We consider plants and trees from the very start of the design process. Some designers will design the hard landscaping first, and consider plants afterwards, but we believe that the type of plants you choose should be integral to the garden design, right from the beginning.
Whether you have a favourite species of tree, a colour palette or love a particular wild landscape, we can build this into the design brief to ensure that your garden reflects your personality.
Alex loves the challenge of an unconventional site: whether your garden is completely in the shade all day, or you have an exposed, windy roof garden, we will find a beautiful design solution that will make your garden somewhere that you love to be.
If you already have a garden layout that you are broadly happy with, we provide a 'planting design only' service in which we can create new planting plans and plant palettes for your garden. Please do get in touch if you think this you.
Your ideal garden starts here
The design process starts with a meeting to visit your garden. Whether you would like a complete redesign, to enhance your garden with a new entertaining space or water feature, or a new planting scheme, we can put together a plan that suits your requirements. We offer this consultation service free of charge.
Following this initial meeting Alex will put together a design brief that summarises our discussions and outlines all design stages, fees and deliverables, along with a suggested timescale for the work.
The design process is split into two phases: Concept Design and Detailed Design. In the Concept Design phase we will produce a concept plan and 3D images of your garden (like those on the left) to show you how the finished garden will look and feel. In the Detailed Design phase these will be translated into technical plans, elevations and construction drawings that can be used by a landscaper to build the garden.
We can also assist in tendering for a landscape contractor, and oversee the build to ensure that it is built to the specified design.
Please email studio@alexrainford.com to arrange a free garden consultation.
