We believe the best landscape design plays to the conditions of your site to take advantage of position, architecture, light and space; and is enhanced by a strong horticultural element.

Landscape Design Process

We focus on the visual, but also on the experience to create spaces that will be enjoyed and savoured for years to come.

Our landscape design process involves four critical phases:

1. Consultation
2. Concept Design
3. Design Development
4. Construction Documentation

Consultation

Firstly, Nathan will meet with you on site to discuss ideas and gather all the necessary information to prepare your project design brief. He will bring his experience and a fresh set of eyes, offering creative insight and recommendations. During the consultation, we explore the practical and aesthetical needs for your exterior space, including lifestyle needs, function and budget.

Drawing from this information, we then prepare your project design brief, which outlines the key features that will inform our proposed design.

Concept Design

In response to the brief (and upon your acceptance of our fee proposal), we prepare a landscape design concept for you to see the full scope of the project. This includes a schematic design of the major features, such as swimming pools, walls, structures, water features and surfaces.

We often use realistic 3D imaging and professional documentation sets, so every finite detail of your design is realised and understood.

Design Development

Upon your approval of the design concept, we refine and develop your design by way of detail, including:

– Furniture
– Finish selections
– Lighting
– Irrigation
– Drainage

To convey our ideas, we can provide samples and photographs for clarity and easier visualisation.

Construction Documentation

For more complex projects, we can prepare detailed ‘construction issue’ documents to enable the calling of tenders, attainment of permits and to ensure the design meets engineering requirements.

Documentation for this phase may include:

1. A Detailed Construction Plan showing hardscape dimensions, grading and drainage.

2. Construction Detail Sheets with material call outs, and any necessary engineering details or calculations.

3. A Landscape Construction Specifications Sheet listing the construction specification requirements.

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FAQs

What does NBLA design?

Our Landscape Design studio creates beautiful outdoor spaces that enhance the surrounding natural and built environments. This typically includes hardscape elements such as walkways, patios, pools and fire pits; as well as horticultural elements such as planting design and sustainability. We also design features and furniture to complement these spaces.

How involved will I be in the landscape design process?

This is entirely up to you. You can be involved as much or as little as you see fit. On the one hand, there are benefits to being entrusted with a design and having the freedom to create something that will exceed your imagination and expectations. However, if you engage us with a clear sense of direction, we will invite your collaboration because ultimately we want you to be excited about your garden and enjoy it for many years to come.

What is the difference between general landscaping and landscape architecture?

General landscaping is best described as the process that follows the design of a garden. Landscape architecture involves engaging qualified professionals to design an aesthetic outdoor space considering design principles, site analysis, ecology, horticulture, sustainability, grading and drainage, and overall functionality. Landscapers implement the landscape architect’s designs by constructing the hardscape elements, installing irrigation systems, and planting out the garden.

What are the benefits of landscape design & planning?

The benefits extend well beyond aesthetics. Professional landscape design and planning will ensure the most functional use of a space, environmental sustainability, economic value, energy efficiency and longevity among other benefits.

How long does a typical landscape design project take?

The time it takes to complete a design will depend very much on the individual project’s scope and size. A straightforward mid-sized project would typically take about 3 months to design from initial consultation to final construction documentation.

Do you provide a digital model of the landscape design?

Yes, a 3D render is a standard inclusion on all our designs to assist our clients in visualising the result.

Can you accommodate specific plants I want in the design?

Absolutely. We will always accommodate your plant preferences unless we believe it is not in your best interest to do so, in which case, we will suggest alternatives.

Do you design landscapes for both residential and commercial properties?

Yes, NBLA has experience in designing for both residential and commercial properties, and events.

Do you provide maintenance plans for your landscape designs?

If NBLA is engaged to manage the project beyond the design phase through to construction, once completed, our preference is to handover the garden to a recommended garden maintenance company.