Understanding the landscape design process
At Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture (NBLA), we believe that exceptional landscape design plays to the conditions of your site to take advantage of position, architecture, light and space. Understanding the landscape design process is the first step in transforming your outdoor space into a personal retreat. Here, we’ll take you through the key stages of our meticulous design process, ensuring a collaborative and enjoyable journey from concept to completion.
1. Initial Consultation and Site Analysis
The journey begins with an initial consultation to understand your vision, preferences, and requirements. It may be that you don’t have a vision but would like to explore some of our ideas. This is an opportunity for us to discuss your lifestyle, the purpose of your garden, and any specific elements you wish to incorporate. We take detailed notes and photographs to ensure every aspect of your brief is captured accurately.
A thorough site analysis is crucial to the success of the design. Our team assesses the site’s existing conditions, including any built form, focal points, topography, soil type, climate, and existing vegetation. We also consider factors such as sun exposure, wind patterns, and drainage. This comprehensive analysis allows us to create a design that works harmoniously with its environment. If a new build is intended for the site, it is important to involve us early to ensure a holistic integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, architectural style and materiality.
In some instances, we will prepare a return brief confirming the information gleaned from the initial consultation, our site analysis, and local government regulations to inform the next phase.
“NBLA treat each project as a unique bespoke design that considers site, architectural integration, client lifestyle and personality.”
2. Concept Design
With the information gathered, we begin crafting a concept design that aligns with your brief and the site’s unique characteristics. This stage involves creating a preliminary schematic, presenting layout options, planting styles and palettes, and hardscape elements. We provide realistic 3D imaging so that your design can be visualised and understood.
3. Design Development
Once the concept design is approved, we move into the design development phase. Here, we refine the initial ideas, adding more detail and precision to the plans. This stage includes selecting planting schedules, finishes, furniture, lighting, irrigation and drainage, ensuring every element aligns with the overall design aesthetic. We work closely with you, reviewing photographs and samples, incorporating your feedback and modifying as needed.
“An impeccable design is only as good as its execution.”
4. Construction Documentation
To ensure our designs are realised as intended, where required, we can produce comprehensive “construction issue” documents including, construction drawings, and specifications. This documentation serves as a blueprint for the landscape construction team so that every aspect of the design is implemented accurately.
With the plans finalised, we collaborate with trusted contractors and suppliers to bring the design to life. Throughout the construction process, we provide on-site supervision, ensuring the design intention is retained and every detail meticulously executed.
Understanding the landscape design process is key to achieving a garden that exceeds your expectations. NBLA will guide you through each phase to create a timeless garden that is a unique expression of your home and enhances the usability of your outdoor space.