Getting Started
Once our fee proposal has been accepted, we’ll arrange an on-site meeting to discuss your requirements and develop a design brief. This visit allows us to carry out site analysis—including photographs, an assessment of site qualities and constraints, and a review of the surrounding context.
To get underway, we’ll need the following from you:
A scaled or dimensioned site plan and house floor plans (if not available, we can arrange a surveyor to complete a site survey)
Survey information with levels or contours, particularly for sloping properties
Any design ideas or inspiration you’d like incorporated into the scheme
An indication of your budget (we can provide guidance if needed)
Stage 1 : Concept Design
This stage brings your new landscape design to life. We prepare:
3D computer-generated images of the proposed design
A scaled and annotated AutoCAD plan
A curated selection of suggested materials and precedent imagery
A tailored plant palette suited to your site and vision
Once prepared, we’ll meet with you to present the design, discuss options and associated costs, and invite your feedback. Based on this, we refine the proposal into a Final Concept Plan, completing the first design stage.
Stage 2: Design Documentation
This stage transforms your concept into detailed documentation, ensuring it can be accurately priced and built by a landscape contractor. We specify all finishes, materials, dimensions, colours, and construction details to achieve the highest-quality result.
Documentation includes:
A full planting plan
A landscape lighting plan
Detailed construction-ready drawings and specifications
We’ll meet with you again to confirm all materials and details. At this point, the project is ready to go out to tender. James Lascelles Landscape Architecture can also oversee the tender process on your behalf to ensure the best outcome.
Permits & Approvals
Some landscape elements—such as swimming pools, pergolas, and other built structures—may require a town planning permit from your local council. We handle the entire process on your behalf: assessing requirements, preparing documentation, lodging the application, and liaising with council officers to ensure a smooth approval.
Plants, Pots & Outdoor Furniture
Thanks to our strong trade relationships with leading wholesale nurseries, we source the highest-quality plants directly from top growers. We also work with trusted pot and planter suppliers, as well as premium outdoor furniture brands, to provide the perfect finishing touches for your landscape.
Ongoing Garden Maintenance
A garden is a living, ever-changing space. To keep it thriving, we can provide a customised maintenance schedule—broken down month by month—and connect you with the right maintenance team. This ensures your landscape continues to look its best year-round and well into the future.
Construction Support
Once construction begins, questions and adjustments inevitably arise. James Lascelles Landscape Architecture remains available throughout the build, offering expert guidance to ensure the best possible outcome and complete client satisfaction.