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James was responsive to our request for a quote, for felling a large ash tree we suspected had died. He replied to messages quickly, turned up when he said he would, and was correct that our tree had in fact died. James was professional the whole time and we would have no hesitation in hiring and recommending him to others in the future.

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Below you’ll find information to help you understand the different elements of garden design and the key things to be aware of before you start transforming your outside space. Find some initial ideas to talk through with a garden designer, including making the most of a small garden.

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Take a look at our Garden Design specialists profiles, read reviews and request quotes directly.

Garden Design Services

What does garden design involve?

Garden design is about more than mowing a lawn and putting a couple of plants in the ground. A good design takes into account a few key elements:

  • How you want to use the space.
  • The amount of light the garden receives, and at what times of the day.
  • The quality of your soil.

For example, you won’t want to put a shed in the best spot for catching a bit of sun, or have a patio that’s entirely in the shade.

A garden designer will help you make the most of the available space, no matter how big or small. They’ll also establish how keen a gardener you are to make sure the finished garden is either easy to maintain, or gives you something to get your teeth into – if you’re the green-fingered type.  

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Low maintenance garden ideas

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  • You can stop a garden from looking untidy by dividing it into small sections. Plants, hedges, low walls and raised beds give a sense of order. Paths made from wood chips, slabs or bark help prevent weeds.
  • Growing plants at different heights can give the illusion of there being more than there are, so you get the look of a fuller garden, with fewer plants to keep healthy. Shrubs, herbs and verbena are low maintenance plant options for adding colour.
  • Rockeries and water features don’t need much looking after. Avoid shallow water features to save needing to top them up when they dry out. If you’d like a pond, avoid getting fish as the pH balance of the water settles naturally without them, giving you fewer algae problems so less cleaning time.
  • To save cutting the lawn, artificial turf could be your best friend but if you want the real thing and don’t mind doing a little cutting every now and again, slow growing or drought resistant turf could be better options.

Ideas for small gardens

  • To create more space, choose similar flooring to the inside of your home when picking the outside tiling.
  • Divide a garden into different sections and add diagonal or winding paths. Extending the time it takes to get from one side of the garden to the other will make it feel bigger.
  • Laying pavers at an angle to the property instead of parallel will draw the eye across the garden and extend the space.
  • Attaching foliaged climbers to wires across areas of your garden will give it an extra dimension.
  • Think about growing upwards rather than outwards with a trellis attached to your fence, or a vertical wall made up of climbers, grasses and ferns. A green wall can also help you lower your energy bills through providing more insulation and reducing the amount of heat that’s lost through the wall of your home. When it comes to choosing other plants, pick types that grow upwards like sweet peas and black-eyed susans so they take up less room.

Other garden design FAQ's

How much does garden design work cost?

The cost of the work will depend on what you’re having done and the size of your garden, but prices tend to start at around £200. A good garden designer will discuss what you want to get out of your garden and ask you about your budget before coming up with ideas.

When do I need planning permission for a garden design project?

You generally do not need planning permission for standard landscaping, but it is required if decking exceeds 30cm in height or covers more than half of your garden area. Restrictions also apply if fences, walls, or gates exceed 2 meters in height, or 1 meter if running alongside a public highway or vehicle path. Furthermore, you must consult your Local Planning Authority if your property is a listed building or if you plan to pave over a front garden.

What insurance should a garden designer have?

While it is not a strict legal requirement, you should always verify that your garden designer holds active public liability insurance before they begin any work on your property. This policy protects both you and the tradesperson against any costly financial claims resulting from accidental property damage or personal injuries during the project. Choosing an insured professional ensures complete peace of mind while your outdoor space is being transformed.

What questions should I ask a garden designer before hiring them?

Before starting your project, you should ask the designer to see a portfolio of their past work and request a scaled design drawing of the proposed layout. It is also important to clarify if their quote includes green waste disposal and whether they provide a workmanship guarantee alongside separate warranties for new plants. Finally, always confirm their level of public liability insurance and what specific damage it covers.

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Reviewed by Elna on 27/11/2012

Very accommodating and friendly flexible service.

Thanks for visiting our page. You can see an archive of photos on this page and if you would like more photos of any specific type of job please ask. We are happy to tackle big jobs or small and strive on customer satisfaction and repeat custom. Thanks

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Reviewed by Mark on 1/8/2019

Lee and Chloe were fantastic. They built a decking area for us which has transformed the garden. The quality of their work is excellent and their work ethic is superb. They offered great advice and ideas, which often saved us money. I would have no hesitation in recommending Lee and Chloe, lovely people, excellent quality work and great value.

Hi, I have over 12 years of experience in the construction and renovation industry, with specialist expertise in: * Drylining * Carpentry * Restaurant refurbishments * House refurbishments * Loft conversions * House extensions * Bathroom Renovation Over the years, I have built a trusted team of skilled and qualified tradespeople, allowing us to manage projects from start to finish — from planning and groundwork through to the final finishing touches. Our Services Include: * Plumbing (Gas Safe registered) * Electrical work (fully certified) * Roofing * Loft conversions * House extensions * Groundworks * Gardening and landscaping * Fencing * Waste removal No job is too big or too small. We take pride in delivering high-quality workmanship, reliable service, and excellent communication throughout every project. I’m always happy to offer advice, answer questions, and discuss your requirements with no obligation. Thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I look forward to hearing from you and helping with your next project

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Reviewed by John on 14/2/2025

Job done to very good quality but job did run over due to the Christmas period overall very happy

Welcome to Specialist Establishment LTD – Your Premier Construction and Renovation Partner in London. About Us: Specialist Establishment LTD, incorporated in August 2020, represents a fresh and dynamic approach to construction and renovation in London. Our team, rich in experience, combines over a century of expertise in the construction industry. This blend of youthful energy and seasoned skill positions us uniquely in the competitive London construction market. Our Services: Our range of services caters to various construction and renovation needs, including: * House Extensions, Loft Conversions & Home Improvements: We specialize in creatively and precisely expanding living spaces and transforming lofts into functional and stylish areas. * Bathroom Fitting & Tiling: Designing elegant and functional bathrooms tailored to your style. * Carpentry & Joinery: Expert carpenters bringing your bespoke kitchen and interior designs to life. * Electrical, Plumbing & Gas Services: Ensuring safe, efficient, and comprehensive installations and maintenance. * Painting, Decorating, & Plastering: Adding vibrancy and finesse to every space. * Roof Works: Comprehensive solutions for all roofing needs. * 3D Architectural Modelling for Major Projects: Reserved for our larger-scale projects, this innovative service allows detailed visualization of project plans before execution. Our Commitment: We pride ourselves on our versatility and our ability to deliver excellence in both small and large projects. Specialist Establishment LTD is committed to not just meeting, but exceeding client expectations. Operating Area: Serving within the M25 and North Kent areas, we are ready to bring our expertise to your project, no matter the size or complexity. Connect with Specialist Establishment LTD: For any queries or to discuss your next project, feel free to reach out. We are here to transform your vision into reality. Your Trusted Partner in Construction – Specialist Establishment LTD.

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Reviewed by Mikey on 25/3/2025

Michal and the team were great to deal with and extremely helpful. The usual array of unexpected issues cropped up during the project and Specialist Establishments were always ready to make appropriate adjustments to get the job done., with a minimum of fuss. We enjoyed working with them and would do so again.

5 + years in the trade Family run Take real care in Looking after customers

ND Handyman Services is team of professionals with years experience and wide range of general building jobs completed. No job to small.

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Reviewed by Daniel on 29/6/2023

We are an established building company, providing services from general maintenance to landscaping and garden walls including extensions and new builds, we pride our selves on being punctual, professional and take time to listen to the requirements of clients so we can deliver the best possible service.

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Reviewed by Spencer on 19/9/2023

Vinnie carried out works building new brick pillar to suit larger opening and alterations to existing pillar installed new aluminium garden gate along with new caps for pillars would highly recommend Vinnie’s service’s, works were carried out to a highly standard & area left clean & tidy on a daily basis.

Hi everyone my name is Daniel... I have been working in the field for 10 years... when you do what you like, there's no way you won't do well, I've never left a customer unsatisfied... many thanks...

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Reviewed by Chris on 22/4/2026

Welcome to Smiths Landscape Gardening Services, your trusted partner for transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional landscapes. With over a decade of dedicated experience, we specialize in a wide range of services, including expert tree work, meticulous hedge care, efficient waste removals, stunning patio installations, and durable gravel drives. What sets us apart? Our unwavering commitment to high-quality customer service. We believe that every garden, regardless of its size or condition, deserves the same level of care and attention. Our mission is to breathe new life into your private garden, leaving behind exceptional results that speak for themselves. Over the past 10+ years, we have honed our expertise and developed a passion for garden renovations. We take pride in the transformations we bring to your outdoor space, turning your dreams into reality. But don't just take our word for it. Visit our website and Google page to explore the glowing testimonials from our satisfied clients. They're a testament to the dedication and skill we bring to every project. Discover the difference that Smiths Landscape Gardening Services can make for your garden. Contact us today, and let's start your garden's journey to beauty and functionality.

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Reviewed by Mark on 7/5/2026

Billy and his team worked hard to complete the garden clearance to a very high standard and they were very tidy - I didn’t need to do any cleaning up after them, which was appreciated. Perfect job, thank you.

We are a London-based building and landscaping company dedicated to delivering high-quality construction, landscaping, and property improvement services across the city. With a strong commitment to craftsmanship, reliability, and attention to detail, we provide complete solutions for residential and commercial properties. Our services cover all aspects of landscaping, house extensions, and property renovations, transforming outdoor and indoor spaces to meet our clients’ needs and visions. From garden design, patios, driveways, and fencing to full home extensions, refurbishments, and structural improvements, our experienced team manages every project from start to finish with professionalism and care. We work closely with our clients to ensure every project is completed to the highest standards, on time and within budget. Whether you are looking to upgrade your garden, extend your living space, or completely renovate your property, we deliver durable, stylish, and functional results tailored to your requirements. Our reputation is built on quality workmanship, transparent communication, and customer satisfaction, making us a trusted choice for building and landscaping services across London.

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Reviewed by Katharina on 3/8/2026

Started promptly but the job, expected to take just over a week, dragged on for over 6 weeks with repeated delays and requests for additional interim payments. Communication became poor and the work was left incomplete. I eventually had to hire another contractor to finish it, costing me an extra £1,450. Despite acknowledging the situation and promising to reimburse the additional cost, no payment has been made.

We are south gardening services we do our best to keep our customers happy and keep the prices low we have bin running south gardening services for just over 15 years many thanks as

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Reviewed by Daniel on 2/8/2026

Here at GRT Hardscapes our Team of professional fully insured staff believe that the customer is always right, working hand in hand with the customer to take there vision and turn it into a reality. With A vast amount of experience spanning 22 years in all aspects of landscaping,hardscaping and utilities which include Driveways,patios,Fencing,Turfing,moleing,water supply leaks,drop Kerbs and much,much more. A member of our Team at GRT Hardscapes hopes to hear from you soon to help you make your dream a reality.

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Reviewed by Carol on 4/3/2025

3 years on turf has almost disappeared.

Hi i offer many property maintance jobs i offer interiour and exteriour painting and many other types of work gardening tree surgery and powerwashing my work is carryied out to a high standerd and the customer must be happy with the work before the job is finished

ITMP offers most of the services in property maintenance allover the London area. Started in 2016 as a family business, through the years our network of specialised professional has grown with the target to centralise, in one place, all the services required in a property, to offer our clients the solution for every of their needs, from everyday maintenance to complete new builds, and everything inbetween. While always delivering with professionalism the best quality product, we have kept our family business attitudine providing our clients with a friendly experience at the best price!

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Reviewed by Poppy on 10/1/2023

Excellent service, they helped me build a garden studio shed. At the start they help me realise my vision by creating 3d mock ups and offered advice on what type of design to go for. Friendly Highly professional On time They were very keen to make sure the job was perfect and went the extra mile to make that happen Would hire them again. Lovely people who did a great job. All the best!

We are a family business that have 20 years experience in exterior painting and decorating and Property Maintenance, such as fencing, turfing,driveways and small roof repairs.

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Reviewed by Andrew on 9/8/2025

Roger and his team were great from start to finish . Easy and friendly to deal with and very pleased with quality of work . Prompt start every day and 4 or 5 people working at any one time to get the work done swiftly during a spell of fine weather . Very accommodating when I had to push back the start date by a few weeks .

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Reviewed by Trevor on 9/5/2018

didn't turn up for appointment.

I am here to help you maximise the potential of your outdoor space. Your garden is the biggest “room” in your house. Whatever your requirements are I can help you achieve the garden you’ve always wanted.

Reliable and prompt.. Experience without overpricing.. Anything you need doing such as preparing ground and treating lawns and soil, or pruning and mowing, digging or mulching, you will not be disappointed with my work. No fuss service at a fair price. Get in, get the job done to a high standard, clean up and go.

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