Melissa Clark Garden Design & Photography
The Design Process
The design process must be collaborative if it's to work well from both the designer's and the client's perspective. First and foremost, the space needs to be both practical and visually appealing. I'll provide guidance, suggestions and advice and tell you when I think one idea is better than another, but in the end, the garden is yours and should be informed by your vision.
We'll start by analyzing what programmatic needs the space will serve. Do you need screening for privacy in parts of the property? An area for children to play, or for outdoor entertaining? Are there drainage issues that need to be addressed? What about lighting and/or irrigation needs? Who will maintain the garden? The answers to these questions will enable me to plan circulation patterns, choose plants, and focus on which views to enhance and which to minimize.
Above: An arbor along a narrow path can frame a view and divide an area into "inner" and "outer" gardens
After our first meeting, I'll photograph and measure the property to locate trees, walkways, and other existing features. I'll note important views both from inside the house and within the garden itself. Using the measurements I've taken and a property survey provided by you, I'll draw up a to-scale "base plan" of the site as it exists.
Drawing on the information I've gathered from our initial meeting and what I've recorded on-site, I prepare a "concept plan" that shows all of the elements I would use to shape the garden to your needs, "hardscape" (built elements such as pathways, retaining walls, decks or patios) as well as plantings. Then we'll meet to look at it together and talk about the design and consider plant choices, using photos and books to help you visualize how your garden will look when it's finished.
When the concept plan has been approved, it's printed and a detailed, line-item installation proposal is prepared and delivered to you at the same time as the plan copies. For clients who are interested, an individualized garden guide can be prepared with general gardening advice, a reduced copy of your plan, and photos and information about the cultural needs and habits of the plants in your plan.
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