Frequently Asked Questions.
What Does A Garden Designer Actually Do?
A garden designer creates a professional plan for your outdoor space, focusing on layout, structure, planting, materials and how the garden will be used. At Cheshire Garden Design, I produce clear, detailed designs that help homeowners, businesses and developers visualise their garden before any landscaping begins, saving time, money and costly mistakes during installation.
Do You Design Small Gardens As Well As Large Ones?
Yes. I design gardens of all sizes, from compact town gardens and courtyards to larger gardens.
Small gardens are a key part of my work, particularly across Cheshire, Shropshire and North Wales, where clever layout and thoughtful planting can make even limited spaces feel functional, open and welcoming.
What Areas Do You Cover?
Cheshire Garden Design is based in Cheshire and works across Cheshire, Shropshire and North Wales.
I regularly design gardens for clients in areas including Chester, Nantwich, Northwich, Crewe, Whitchurch, Wrexham, Oswestry and surrounding towns and villages.
If you are unsure whether I cover your location, please get in touch to discuss your project.
How Much Does Garden Design Cost in Cheshire, Shropshire & North Wales?
Garden design costs vary depending on the size of the garden, the complexity of the project, location, scope of services & customer requirements. Smaller residential garden designs typically cost less, while larger or multi-phase developments require more detailed planning. I offer a bespoke service based on your unique requirements. I price my designs based on how long I estimate it will take to create the concept design that’s right for you, the price for the service is detailed in the Garden Design Brief that I provide.
How Much Should I Budget For A Garden Project?
I’m often asked this and its difficult to say. It is dependent on the scope of what you want to achieve and the complexity of the site. I once heard a good rule of thumb if you are thinking of a complete garden transformation, think of it like a room in your house. Your garden is probably your largest room and you need to think about budgeting for changing the walls (garden boundaries, e.g. fence./hedge) the flooring(paving, paths,
turf), the features & focal points (trees, pergolas, water features) and furnishings (plants, arbour, sheds, trellis, outside kitchen). So maybe it helps to think of a budget for a new kitchen.
Of course not all designs are for a complete transformation, sometimes its about tackling a specific area/part of the garden.
Do You Offer Garden Design Only, Or Landscaping As Well?
Together with my husband, we can work with you from the start of the design process to the finished result. Working with both of us offers a complete service giving you ease & peace of mind.
Design only is an option & means I focus entirely on creating a professional design and detailed handover package, which can then be passed to your chosen landscaper or contractor, or I can work with your current landscaper if they are looking to outsource the design process.
How Long Does The Garden Design Process Take?
The garden design process depends on the size and complexity of the project. It usually includes an initial consultation, concept design, revisions and final drawings. Larger gardens or commercial projects may take longer due to additional planning and detail required.
For small to medium sized gardens, designs typically take 4-6 weeks.
Do I Need Planning Permission For A Garden Redesign?
In most cases, planning permission is not required for garden redesigns. However, permission may be needed for certain features such as large structures, raised levels or properties in conservation areas. I can advise you during the design stage if planning considerations may apply to your garden.
What Information Do You Need Before Starting A Garden Design?
Before starting a design, it is helpful to know how you want to use the garden, who will be using it, your budget expectations and any ideas or preferences you may have. Site details such as access, existing features and boundaries also help ensure the final design is practical and achievable.
Will The Design Suit The Local Climate & Soil Conditions?
Yes. All designs take local conditions into account, including soil type, drainage, exposure and climate.
Gardens in Cheshire, Shropshire and North Wales each have their own challenges and my designs reflect these differences to ensure planting and layouts are well suited to the environment and perform well long term.