Post your job for free. Get quotes. Read reviews.

The quick way to find a local Garden Design specialist

This page has everything you’ll need to know about finding and hiring a local garden designer.

Post your job for free. Read reviews, get quotes, and see tips on hiring the right person.

Browse Garden Design specialists

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

Garden Landscape Design Companies | Find Landscape Design Services Near You

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.

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.  

Cost of garden design work

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.

Low maintenance garden ideas

  • 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.

Planning permission for garden design jobs

Planning permission only comes into play when you’re building or installing decking, fences, walls and gates. You’ll need to apply for planning permission if:

  • The decking would be higher than 30cm above the ground.
  • The decking or other raised platforms would cover more than half of the total area of the garden.
  • A fence, gate or wall would be over 2 metres high, or over 1 metre high near a highway that’s used by vehicles (or a footpath next to the highway).
  • The fence, gate or wall would form a boundary with a listed building or land.

If you live in a listed building or you have a front garden that you want to pave over, you should check with your Local Planning Authority as different rules may apply.

Insurance for garden design work

While it’s not a legal requirement, it’s a good idea for all garden designers to have public liability insurance so they’re covered for personal injuries or accidental damage to a property.

Questions you should ask your garden designer

  • How long have they been working as a garden designer for?
  • Can they show you examples of work they’ve carried out?
  • Can they give you a scaled design of what the finished garden will look like?
  • Do they have public liability insurance and what does this cover?
  • Will they give a guarantee for the work and how long does this last? Are there separate guarantees for different plants?
  • Does the quote for the work include waste disposal? If not, check with your local council how you would go about getting it taken away.

Tree surgery Fences and deckings Footings and land drainage Shed bases Patios Tiling

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Peter on 19/1/2024

The boys were excellent from start to finish. Able to schedule to do the work quickly, polite to us and neighbours who helped with access and were also very complimentary. High quality workmanship and everything clean and tidy afterwards with high quality workmanship. Highly recommend them - thank you

Here at TimberKings we are a local company providing a friendly, reliable service with competitive pricing keeping to a high quality finish in all of our projects big or small.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Margaret on 4/2/2024

Job was completed quickly to a high standard and didn't need any money up front which was appreciated. High;y recommended

Years of experience landscape gardening

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by richard on 22/4/2024

I recently had the pleasure of hiring James and his team to complete a decking project for me, and I couldn't be more impressed with the results. From start to finish, the utmost professionalism, combined with a friendly and polite demeanor that made the entire experience a joy. They arrived on time each day, ready to tackle the day's tasks with enthusiasm . At the end of each day, they ensured that the area was clean & tidy Overall, I cannot recommend James highly enough for any decking project.

A family run business with over 30 years experience, covering all aspects of tree work landscaping garden maintenance and Construction Fully Qualified and Insured.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Helen on 11/11/2023

Great service from these guys from start to finish, prompt to call, to quote and book us in, and I have to emphasise, a good job done at a great price, the ‘right’ price, you can’t ask for better! We had a very large tree pollarded today, and not only was the job done to perfection, but they went over and above on the tidying up too, which in this day and age is quite admirable. No matter what job you’re after in the garden, I’m sure these guys are the right guys for it, highly recommend. Thank you Klain!

Pontypool based company that specialises in all types of Carpentry and Landscaping work. All work undertaken is complete at a very high standard which leaves customers will complete happiness and satisfaction. Full qualified trades team in all different aspects. Free quotation regardless of circumstance.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Manoj on 19/4/2024

Done my garden fence professionally also in a reasonable price, good communication, definitely recommend. Thanks to the Team

We are passionate about our work and are enthusiastic about every project we build. We have more than 20 years in the building trade, specialising in garden landscaping and driveways, extensions and general building work. We are confident that previous customers will be more than willing to give you a personal recommendation if you would like to have one. We visit each potential customer to discuss their project and offer advice and suggestions. We can design your landscaping project from scratch or implement your own design. We can provide illustrations of our design ideas for your project. We are happy to compile a job scope for your project and will include our procedures for the tasks and services required with our quotation. Our building services include, but are not limited to the following: Driveways: Specialising in block paving but also construct other types of driveway, small and large. Garden landscaping and design: patios (raised levels and ground levels), decking (platform and ground level), safety railings, safety walls, glass and timber balustrades, for balconies and raised level patios and decking, artificial grass, turf, retaining walls, brick walls, poured concrete and concrete block walls, garden walls, timber sleepers, planting beds, kitchen gardens, flower beds (raised and at lawn level, and retaining), arbours/pergolas, cement bases for sheds, construction and installation of garden sheds, fencing, garden gates, steps and garden staircases, tree cutting, brick walls, rendering and K-rend, painting, outdoor fire pits and bespoke barbecues, water features, fountains and ponds, bespoke garden seating, planting. General builders: outbuildings, garden offices, conservatories, garage conversions, extensions, porches, fibre glass roofs for garages and outbuildings, external rendering, K-rend, external painting, interior painting, plastering and decorating. We look forward to hearing from you !!!

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by David on 28/2/2024

Very good work and professional all round

Crossways Gardening & Supplies offers a complete outdoor solution for your gardening requirements in the South of England. Our team offer a full landscape design service, garden revamps and maintenance programmes to ensure your garden is looking its best all year round.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by FREDERICK on 14/2/2024

Hayden is very reliable contentious, hard working, and turned out a first class job. Removing soil and replacing with fresh, also laying a brick border, and laying a new lawn. Also removing a large palm tree stump no easy task. Would highly recomed.

We are a landscape gardening company and are fully qualified and insured tree surgeons. we do every type of arborist work. We also have four city and guild trained driveway restorers and two builders. we have 9 permanent employees we specialise in block paving and Indian stone patio’s etc. We work all over Manchester and Liverpool all of Yorkshire & Lancashire we are based in altrincham Manchester and and we can do everything garden related from tree surgery to building walls patios etc and fencing which is a speciality of ours. All quotations are free with no obligation and it’s always better to employ professionals like forevergreen than a man in a van get it done correctly the first time by a insurance backed professional company with a excellent track record all work guaranteed I have over 30 years of landscape gardening experience including flagging block paving and tarmac or concrete driveways etc Council approved contractor for 20 years City and guilds nptc level 2 chainsaw maintenance and cross cutting City and guilds npct level 2 in felling and Ariel cutting We have 1 million pounds worth of professional and indemnity insurance We are green registered all our tree and garden waste is recycled and re purposed ie chippings are Used around other gardens borders etc logs for heat and greenery is made into compost

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Diane on 21/2/2024

Arrived on time and job done really quickly and better than I had hoped for. Would recommend to others. Polite staff.

We are a well established and highly reputable landscaping company, providing a wide range of services both as a principal contractor and as a sub-contractor. Being situated in the heart of Surrey gives us a sense of community spirit which we transfer directly to our manner at work, which is why all our staff are considered friendly and approachable. Since our establishment Landscape Doctor Ltd has built up a large clientele ranging from residential to commercial and industrial customers. In that time, we have also built up an excellent reputation for our efficiency, while at the same time maintained the highest possible standards of health and safety throughout all of our projects. Using our 16 years’ experience, we strive to provide the best possible service, ensuring we create a safe and beautiful outdoor space to satisfy every customer. We aim to deliver projects on time, on budget and to cause as little disruption as possible, not only to the client but to the surrounding neighbourhood and area.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Carol on 4/9/2023

You need look no further than Landscape Doctor if you want a first class patio or drive installed. Barney, Josef, Robert and Tibor are a hard-working and friendly team who use quality materials and demonstrate very high levels of workmanship and attention to detail. They took care to minimise disruption to neighbours, and cleared up after themselves every day. A 5-star service from a highly recommended team.

C Jenkins & Sons Limited Welcome to C Jenkins & Sons Limited, your trusted partner for comprehensive property solutions in London. With a rich legacy of excellence, we take pride in offering a diverse range of services tailored to meet all your property maintenance needs. From roofing to landscaping, patios, driveways, and power washing, we are your one-stop destination for elevating the aesthetics and functionality of your property. Our Specializations: 1. Property Maintenance: C Jenkins & Sons Limited is your go-to partner for proactive property maintenance. Our dedicated team ensures your property remains in optimal condition, providing regular inspections, repairs, and maintenance services to protect your investment. 2. Roofing Services: We specialize in roofing solutions that stand the test of time. Whether you require repairs, installations, or renovations, our skilled craftsmen employ the latest techniques and premium materials to deliver roofing solutions that marry durability with aesthetic appeal. 3. Landscaping Services: Transform your outdoor spaces into a haven of beauty with our bespoke landscaping services. From garden design to regular maintenance, our creative team crafts environments that harmonize with your lifestyle and preferences. 4. Patios and Driveways: Enhance your property's curb appeal with our expertly designed patios and driveways. Our team combines functionality with aesthetics to create inviting outdoor spaces that reflect your style. 5. Power Washing: Revitalize the exterior of your property with our professional power washing services. We remove dirt, grime, and stains, restoring surfaces to their original glory and leaving your property looking fresh and rejuvenated. Why Choose C Jenkins & Sons Limited: Comprehensive Expertise: With a wide range of services, we offer a holistic approach to property enhancement, ensuring all your needs are met under one roof. in property maintenance, roofing, landscaping, patios, driveways, and power washing services. Your property deserves the best, and we are here to deliver it. Customer-Centric Approach: We value your vision and work closely with you to understand your preferences, ensuring a personalized and satisfying experience. Timely and Reliable: At C Jenkins & Sons Limited, we understand the importance of timeliness. We complete projects efficiently without compromising on quality. Elevate your property with C Jenkins & Sons Limited – where excellence meets diversity .

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Jo on 16/4/2024

Here At P.D.M We Aim To Provide The Best And Most Competitive Services. Although As A Company We Are New, We Boast 30+ Years In The Industry. Our Prices Are Competitive But Also Fair For The Quality Of Work Provided. We specialise in Refurbishments and Bespoke work

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Roisin on 26/12/2023

Easy to deal with, polite, prompt, good service. Good finish - thank you. Would recommend.

Spartan Construction is a new Business formed by an experienced workforce. We cover North West England but focus mainly in Lancashire and Cumbria.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Daniel on 26/10/2023

Luke gave a decent quote for some roof, paving & fence work. What they did complete was good, but they did not finish the job. Communication was very frustrating and I had to constantly chase for updates. I stupidly paid the full balance after the garden was complete, but before the roof work was. It's now 9 weeks on & despite repeated assurances that they will come back (and me offering a further £200 to complete the roof work), I do not believe they intend to return. 3/5

Shane’s home improvements has firmly built it’s reputation on perfection with outstanding customer service, reliability and attention to detail. We provide a dedicated, personalised service, providing solutions to maximise your outdoor space. We strongly believe that a job is not worth doing unless it is done right. Shane’s home improvements has extensive expertise in providing a number of services, including design and construction of Patios, Walling, cedar & softwood Fencing, Millboard & timber decking, contemporary garden buildings, stainless steel and glass balustrades & balconies, block Paved, natural stone and resin bound driveways and Paths and installation of Artificial Grass/AstroTurf and much more. Drawing from our 13 years of experience, we offer a whole world of garden design ideas, which are excellently installed to suit different garden types, shapes and sizes, and fully meet your personal requirements. From modern designs to more traditional styles, we ensure you’re delighted with the end result. We Provide bespoke landscaping services for private and commercial clients Renowned for our quality installations and workmanship combined with high-quality materials such as natural stone paving, vitrified paving, porcelain paving, stainless steel, glass, cedar and Millboard decking. Shanes home improvements are a landscape design and home improvement services company you can trust

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Sarah on 5/3/2024

Very pleased with the service provided. Extremely polite and carried out all of the tasks I requested. Tidied up all of their work afterwards. Would highly recommend.

As a company we carry out hard landscaping and soft landscaping form flagging to structural sleeper walls to tree planting and also one off garden cleanups. We also carry out other works such as Guttering, Facias and Soffits

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Julie on 24/3/2023

Dan responded quickly to my job and came over at the agreed time to quote. Dan did a great job at a good price. Happy to recommend

Local reliable company, built on customer satisfaction. I take pride in quality of work and I complete all the work myself no sub-contracting! as I then know the high standards I set will always be upheld. 20 years experience Clean and well presented All types of landscaping work took on. Call to arrange an estimate Thank you

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Lois on 24/7/2023

We had a couple of awkward unfinished jobs in our garden and needed some help to finish them. Alex helped suggest options and gave us a quote, which we were happy with. The work was done efficiently and to a really high standard. We were so impressed and it's made a huge difference to our garden. Would use again and would recommend to anyone who needs work doing. Thanks Alex!

Platinum patterns is a specialist company in pattern imprinted concrete and also artificial grass instillation. All are staff are highly skilled and fully qualified giving you the reassurance that your project will be completed to the highest standards.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Neil on 4/9/2023

Craig and his team arrived when he said he would and worked tirelessly throughout , he overcame some unforeseen issues professionally and kept me informed of progress at all times. The rear patio area now looks great and will look better when the new furniture arrrives and the driveway looks so much better than the old weed ridden blockpaving.

All exterior works undertaken no job to big or small with over 20 years experience professional workmanship is our key making costomer’s happy is our goal. Find us on Facebook goggle my builder bark checkatrade rated people and much more fully Insured

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Kevin on 25/11/2022

Very satisfied with the work. Would recommend .

We always work to a 100% work rate we are a family business friendly reliable we have over 27 years experience we undertake all aspects of work no job too big or small

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Alex on 17/2/2017

Very good experience with these guys. Polite, friendly and got the job done quickly and as agreed. Would use again.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by jean on 22/11/2016

Unusual and very minor job - gardening. Well done. TO RATED PEOPLE: the lowest on your price scale for estimated job costs is £100. Was I wrong to advertise with you for a very minor piece of work maybe?

Over 30 years trading in landscapes and driveways fencing all over Cheshire Liverpool and Manchester all roofing jobs done to high standards just good honest work without all the lies and crap that some people tell you .

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by keith on 1/10/2019

Very good, on time very efficient and would recommend them.

Post your job for free

app-icon

Get our app for homeowners

  • Send messages and get notifications from tradespeople
  • Add photos to get more accurate quotes
  • View tradespeople's profiles