We visit the customer for an initial free consultation and make some initial hand sketches. Based on initial consultations, we provide a quotation for the suggested work. When the customer wishes to proceed with the project, we develop a detailed plan for the work we will be carrying out.

As per agreement with the customer.

Yes we will remove all rubbish.

Yes. We can organise a maintenance contract.

The number one benefit of a set of plans is that they reduce ambiguity. The customer knows exactly how his or her finished garden will look. And the landscaper has a clear plan to follow."

"Secondly, a good plan can be phased in over a period of time. If you can't afford to do all the work in one go, the work can be staged."

"There are no hard and fast rules, but there are certain skills that a garden designer should have.

• Versatility
  Get an idea of the garden designer's style. Ask to see photos or sketches of their work. Make sure that their portfolio shows a variety of designs and ideas."

• Horticultural Background
  "Ask whether the garden designer has a horticultural background - especially a knowledge of plants and materials. Practical experience of planting and materials means that they will have the ability to put together the planned garden within budget."

• Presentation Skills

  "Look at the level of detail in their design portfolio. Can the garden designer measure and draw space accurately? 
  In order to communicate their ideas to you, garden designers must have good presentation skills. Most professional garden designers are using AutoCAD now. But they should also be able to provide 3D sketches to illustrate concepts."

• Special Features
  "Some people require very specialised garden features. In this case, the garden designers need to have the expertise to assess if these are feasible"

The cost of the design really depends on the level of communication needed. Garden Designs cost from €300 upwards. That would include a 2D layout drawing and rough 3D concept sheets.

I will work with the client until he or she is happy with the design. I don't want payment until that has been achieved.

Alternatively, clients can arrange a one-off consultation with a garden designer. That will give you ideas for the potential of your space. Typically, they cost from €80 upwards."

The garden designer will want to find out the following. How do you use your home now? What way would you like to use your home? What lifestyle do you want?"

A garden designer should consider how the house and garden relate to each other i.e. the internal/external relationship. Is it necessary to introduce elements like patio doors or external lighting to make that relationship work.

As well as the functional aspects, the aesthetic aspect of the house will dictate the style of garden.

An indication of the complete budget is also helpful."

There's a couple of options here. One option is to retain the garden designer to organise a landscaping contractor and supervise the project.

Alternatively, if clients want to DIY the project, we can put together a self-management project. That's becoming popular in Dublin now. Essentially, the home-owner either builds the garden themselves or directly contracts a landscaping contractor. For a set fee, I will advise the homeowner on a regular basis.

I don't like oversized decks which run the entire length of a house. Ideally, the back door of a house should lead to a stone surface for safety reasons, especially for those damp Dublin days.

I like a good balance between architectural plants and soft foliage plants because it's pleasing to the eye."

The garden designer should provide samples of the materials which are going to be used in the garden. Remember that natural stone products have variations, so the actual material delivered may differ from the samples.

Mature plants make a big difference to a garden and it's worth having a budget for them.

If you're renovating your house, it's important to call in a garden designer. 90% of architects will overlook the garden.