OXFORD
LAURA BURT GARDEN & LANDSCAPE DESIGN
The design process
HOW WE WORK
Step 1. Site survey and analysis with initial meetings to discuss the needs of the client and their hopes for their garden redesign.
Step 2 A Concept Plan drawn up in CAD. The concept illustrates the main elements and a proposed layout. It includes mood boards, rendered views and an animation..
Step 3 When the Master Plan is finalised we develop a package to include details of the hard landscaping, the specifications for contractors and all elements of the design including setting out plans and materials. The design can then be costed by at least two contractors.
Step 4 A Planting Plan is prepared. We have specialist nurseries to meet the requirements for different sites. Step 5 The contractors start the build. We are always on site at the start of the build and at all significant points during the process to ensure that the build runs smoothly and the design is realised as intended.
Step 6 Myself and my team come in to plant. Often we have an ongoing relationship with clients with maintenance plans keeping both the client and the garden happy.
BEFORE DURING & AFTER
STAGES Three stages are shown in these pictures; the first year of the garden is the main photo. Below is the layout before planting and to the right the garden before works began. In the initial planning it was decided to keep the shed and the two established trees. As part of our site analysis we work with what can be retained. The trees were a starting point for the style of the garden with its curving path that creates a journey to the seating area at the end. The English country garden style of garden suits the period of the house and the clients wishes for summer colour and abundance.
WHY DESIGN? In recent years our outdoor space has become much more important and a part of our every day living. Our designs seek to join the house and garden seamlessly bringing nature sensitive design and functionality together without compromising on style and beauty. We are passionate about gardens for wellbeing, relaxation and nature. Listening to the clients needs is paramount to create beautiful, functional spaces that incorporate all the practicalities sheds, patios, trampolines and work spaces as well as an outdoor space that nurtures the owner and our planet.
WHAT MY CLIENTS SAY:
Working with Laura has been a pleasure as she has been able to help and advise us throughout the entire process of creating our new garden. She has a great ability to understand what you are trying to achieve and help you turn that idea into a reality. Laura used her encyclopaedic knowledge of garden plants and her artistic talent as designer, to create a garden that skilfully combines colour, texture and structure to great effect. We are very pleased with the end result
We look forward to working with Laura and her team as our garden develops over the coming years and new ideas present themselves. Matt Richardson
PROCESS & CONCEPT
WHAT WE OFFER This is a concept presentation plan for a new build bungalow garden in Burford. A journey around the garden begins at the main terrace, it includes two pause points; a coffee and morning sun arbour and a sundown gin and tonic seating area. The carefully chosen mediterranean planting pallet gives all year interest and is low maintenance. There are focal points that can be seen from inside with an Urban Lily Water Bowl and a sculpture on a plinth. The garden is tailored for a couple in their eighties that will provide year round interest, scent and easy access. Planning a garden it is crucial to listen to the clients needs to create a garden that is meaningful to their lifestyle and in this case to provide a haven for them to relax and enjoy their retirement.
After the site analysis our process starts with hand drawing to develop the sketch plan. These drawings and the survey are then transferred into Sketch Up, a 3D modelling program where we can create rendered views, section drawings and walk throughs. Mood boards for planting themes, colours and material selection work alongside the visuals to develop the garden design for the master plan stage. We then use Vectorworks for the master plan, layout, technical drawings and planting plans.
SPECIFICATONS
We provide comprehensive drawing specifications using CAD for contractors to carry out the build. The details include how all of the hard landscaping will be built from terraces to water features and pergolas.
Garden Maintenance
Myself and a dedicated team of horticulturalists, landscapers and nurseries provide comprehensive post design care. Maintenance is an important part of our design practice business to ensure that our gardens mature and evolve. We also offer after care manuals for those that wish to take on their own gardener or their own maintenance.
Garden styling
Sometimes a terrace or a planting bed needs a makeover for a big event and myself and my team can help with garden consultancy from plants to furniture to particular styles.
