Garden Design Services
Over 10,000 rated tradespeople
are ready to help you get your job done
Over 3 million happy homeowners
have found a quality tradesperson
Over 1 million ratings
with 88,000 5* ratings in the last 12 months
Our most popular gardener / landscape gardeners jobs
Join our group of happy customers
Thousands of 5 star reviews
Read real reviews from customers about their service experiences.
Excellent job done would recommend
Robert
James was responsive to our request for a quote, for felling a large ash tree we suspected had died. He replied to messages quickly, turned up when he said he would, and was correct that our tree had in fact died. James was professional the whole time and we would have no hesitation in hiring and recommending him to others in the future.
Joanne
Excellent service. Hard working, polite, professional team. Lovely job. Would recommend.
Anne
Below you’ll find information to help you understand the different elements of garden design and the key things to be aware of before you start transforming your outside space. Find some initial ideas to talk through with a garden designer, including making the most of a small garden.
Browse Garden Design specialists
Take a look at our Garden Design specialists profiles, read reviews and request quotes directly.
Garden Design Services
What does garden design involve?
Garden design is about more than mowing a lawn and putting a couple of plants in the ground. A good design takes into account a few key elements:
- How you want to use the space.
- The amount of light the garden receives, and at what times of the day.
- The quality of your soil.
For example, you won’t want to put a shed in the best spot for catching a bit of sun, or have a patio that’s entirely in the shade.
A garden designer will help you make the most of the available space, no matter how big or small. They’ll also establish how keen a gardener you are to make sure the finished garden is either easy to maintain, or gives you something to get your teeth into – if you’re the green-fingered type.
Cost of garden design work
The cost of the work will depend on what you’re having done and the size of your garden, but prices tend to start at around £200. A good garden designer will discuss what you want to get out of your garden and ask you about your budget before coming up with ideas.
Low maintenance garden ideas
- You can stop a garden from looking untidy by dividing it into small sections. Plants, hedges, low walls and raised beds give a sense of order. Paths made from wood chips, slabs or bark help prevent weeds.
- Growing plants at different heights can give the illusion of there being more than there are, so you get the look of a fuller garden, with fewer plants to keep healthy. Shrubs, herbs and verbena are low maintenance plant options for adding colour.
- Rockeries and water features don’t need much looking after. Avoid shallow water features to save needing to top them up when they dry out. If you’d like a pond, avoid getting fish as the pH balance of the water settles naturally without them, giving you fewer algae problems so less cleaning time.
- To save cutting the lawn, artificial turf could be your best friend but if you want the real thing and don’t mind doing a little cutting every now and again, slow growing or drought resistant turf could be better options.
Ideas for small gardens
- To create more space, choose similar flooring to the inside of your home when picking the outside tiling.
- Divide a garden into different sections and add diagonal or winding paths. Extending the time it takes to get from one side of the garden to the other will make it feel bigger.
- Laying pavers at an angle to the property instead of parallel will draw the eye across the garden and extend the space.
- Attaching foliaged climbers to wires across areas of your garden will give it an extra dimension.
- Think about growing upwards rather than outwards with a trellis attached to your fence, or a vertical wall made up of climbers, grasses and ferns. A green wall can also help you lower your energy bills through providing more insulation and reducing the amount of heat that’s lost through the wall of your home. When it comes to choosing other plants, pick types that grow upwards like sweet peas and black-eyed susans so they take up less room.
Planning permission for garden design jobs
Planning permission only comes into play when you’re building or installing decking, fences, walls and gates. You’ll need to apply for planning permission if:
- The decking would be higher than 30cm above the ground.
- The decking or other raised platforms would cover more than half of the total area of the garden.
- A fence, gate or wall would be over 2 metres high, or over 1 metre high near a highway that’s used by vehicles (or a footpath next to the highway).
- The fence, gate or wall would form a boundary with a listed building or land.
If you live in a listed building or you have a front garden that you want to pave over, you should check with your Local Planning Authority as different rules may apply.
Insurance for garden design work
While it’s not a legal requirement, it’s a good idea for all garden designers to have public liability insurance so they’re covered for personal injuries or accidental damage to a property.
Questions you should ask your garden designer
- How long have they been working as a garden designer for?
- Can they show you examples of work they’ve carried out?
- Can they give you a scaled design of what the finished garden will look like?
- Do they have public liability insurance and what does this cover?
- Will they give a guarantee for the work and how long does this last? Are there separate guarantees for different plants?
- Does the quote for the work include waste disposal? If not, check with your local council how you would go about getting it taken away.
We offer a wide range of professional landscaping services for the home garden or even yard. From complete garden design to one off tidy ups. We provide a high-quality service along with customer satisfaction at very competitive prices.
Omg what a transformation he did on my garden. We agreed on a very good price. He replaced my decking and turfed the lawn. Kept his number for when I'm ready for the other garden to be done. ????
Total Landscaping completes work to customers standards. We don't leave until we please! All work is carried out to high standards, currently rated 5 stars. Check out our customer reviews for details of our results.
James completed some brick work and fencing to my rear garden. He did an excellent job at a reasonable price. He communicated well and went the extra mile to do a good job. He was also a very tidy worker. I wouldn't hesitate to employ him again and will be doing so again in the near future.
LITA CONTRACTORS LTD We are a family owned construction company with over 10 years of successful commercial and residential building projects. Based in London, we help clients with all kinds of construction needs, with existing plans or brand-new designs and solutions. Some of our services include: - Ground work - Drainage - Basements - First Fix & Second Fix - Kitchen & Bathroom Fit Out - RC Frame & Steel Frame We are specialised in delivering reliable and best quality services that will last a generation.
I needed my shed reducing in size urgently. Haki came in half an hour and gave a very reasonable quote. He and his brother worked tirelessly over 2 days to do the job. It looks great and they tidied up after themselves too.
'%3e%3cpath%20fill-rule='evenodd'%20clip-rule='evenodd'%20d='M12.5%2020.392a1%201%200%2001-.54.888l-5.274%202.73a1%201%200%2001-1.435-1.109l1.494-6.588a1%201%200%2000-.306-.964l-4.723-4.254c-.65-.586-.287-1.666.585-1.74l6.105-.514a1%201%200%2000.846-.629L12.5%200v20.392z'%20fill='%23F7DB34'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
We are a very reliable team who can always solve your problems. No job is to big or small With competitive pricing we are affordable And we always listen to our customers needs so we can help them the best way we can
Great job. Quick, efficient and friendly service.
Here at Collingham tree and landscaping. We do most jobs . One stop shop
A family business since 1985 that provides bespoke fencing and decking services which specialises in artificial turfing. As well as made to measure wooden gates of all descriptions. A warm and friendly services that would be happy with any enquiries.
Glynn, was brilliant, turned up exactly when he said he would, did the job that he said he would to a really good standard and charged me exactly what we agreed, might sound like that's how it should be but we know the reality. Wouldn't hesitate in recommending these guys
porters tree and garden services all tree work undertaken pruning lopping shaping tree felling & stump removal and all over grown gardens cleared hedge cutting turfing and fencing work friendly reliable service with over 20 years experience
Full property renovations, extensions, loft conversions, outbuildings & more.
Absolutely useless made our life a misery never book these had a bathroom fitted horrible job then when it leak and destroyed my front room ceiling trust when I say don't use them .
Just the Garden was established in West Molesey, with many years experience in the Gardening trade, Just The Garden are a professional, reliable and fully accredited company operating in West Molesey and the wider areas. We take pride in all our work.
Super value and first to respond
JHG & Sons Garden & Property Maintenance At JHG & Sons, we are dedicated to providing top-quality garden and property maintenance services. With nearly 11 years of experience in the trade, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional workmanship and ensuring complete customer satisfaction. Our team offers a comprehensive range of services, including garden care, landscaping, property upkeep, and more, all tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Based in Suffolk, we are committed to serving our local community with prompt and reliable service. Whether you need regular garden maintenance or one-off property improvements, JHG & Sons guarantees a high standard of work and a swift response. Your property is our priority.
Good communication, fair estimate, very reliable and hard working. Thoroughly recommend.
"I am a skilled multi-trade handyman with several years of experience specialising in both indoor and outdoor carpentry. My expertise encompasses a variety of carpentry techniques, allowing me to handle a wide variety of projects . I take pride in delivering high-quality craftsmanship and ensuring customer satisfaction in every job I undertake."
Too Guy, very friendly. Worked constantly all day long and at a fair price. I would use this Guy again. Thanks Jim ????
•Maintenance of all tree types •Paths and patios (layed, repaired and cleaned) •Power washing •Rotervating and turfing •Grass Cutting •Gutters cleared and cleaned out •Exterior painting
Very good service thank you
Here at deeside landscapes Ltd we take pride in our work , been doing this for most of my life , really enjoy seeing customer happy , have had repeat customers for years would like to some more with the help of rated people
William was very prompt in getting in touch and arranging his team to do my driveway tarmac and gravel areas and even installed some measures to prevent future flooding. The work done was very good and quick. Would easily recommend Deeside to anyone looking to have this type of work done.
Based in south Brent, we have been in the block paving and resurfacing tarmac driveways for over 30 years. During this time we gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise on which means we can offer our customers plenty of help when designing your driveway
Highly recommended, job was done as per request and work was completed to high standard. Very clean, tidy and professional - would use again
We have carefully developed a reputation for reliability and high quality workmanship as surfacing contractors and roofing specialists. We specialise in all types of driveways and roofing. Producing exceptional surfacing and roofing solutions for both commercial and domestic customers. Our considerable range ofservices includes repairs, new roofs, guttering, driveways, pathways, car parks, road repairs and pavement lowering, so you can be certain that our dedicated team will be able to meet your specific requirements.
Quick and prompt. They used a drone to show me the damage to the roof caused by the wind.
At NS Roofing & Building Ltd, we offer expert roofing services and building solutions throughout Weston Super Mare and the surrounding areas. Specialising in roof installation, roof repairs, re-roofing, and general building services, our skilled team ensures high-quality craftsmanship and reliable results. Whether you’re in need of a new pitched roof, flat roofing, or emergency roof repairs, we provide tailored services to meet your needs and protect your property for years to come. Our dedication to customer satisfaction and attention to detail sets us apart in the roofing and building industry. We use only premium materials to deliver durable, long-lasting solutions for both residential and commercial properties. From small roof repairs to large-scale construction projects, NS Roofing & Building Ltd offers cost-effective, dependable services that ensure your home or business remains secure and protected against the elements.
Bristol House Extensions is a family owned business. Our workforce is fully qualified and experienced at working in domestic and commercial properties and carries out work for our customer, customer satisfaction is our main priority.
Really helpful people to deal with.
Not successful on this occasion
We are a local dependable loyal family run business who have been in this trade for the past 30 years we can cover all types of landscaping services tree and building work always happy to help no jobs to big or small
I hired AW Tree and Landscape Services to do a large hard landscaping job including rebuiling walls, rebuilding steps and a large area of paving and I'm completely satisfied with the work they have done. They turned up at first light (sometimes before) every day, were courteous and tidy. They work as a well-practised team and the quality of work is outstanding. Alec and Alexander had some brilliant problem-solving ideas. I'm very happy wit the job and would not hesitate to hire them again.
Over 30 years of experience as a multi-tradesman. As well as being a qualified plumber I specialise in other wet trades e.g Decorating, Plastering & Rendering, Tiling & Bricklaying. Also, I fit laminate flooring, skirtings, architraves and timber stud work. I am always punctual and reliable, and clean and tidy in my work. I am also happy to assist in planning and designing projects.
Kevin arrived on time, did an amazing job on my mother’s bungalow, cleaned up afterwards. Polite, friendly and professional. Good price too.
'%20rx='20'%20/%3e%3cg%20fill='%23FFF'%3e%3cpath%20d='M29.376%2016.914c-.555%200-1.006.454-1.006%201.013v37.416c0%20.578.472%201.014%201.097%201.014h34.109a1.007%201.007%200%200%200%20.972-.83%201.012%201.012%200%200%200-.161-.76l-6.446-9.416c-.375-.548-.567-1.085-.586-1.642-.034-.977.516-1.952%201.402-2.483%204.8-2.878%205.808-7.575%205.808-11.009%200-7.335-5.925-13.303-13.207-13.303H29.376ZM63.594%2059.75H29.467c-2.505%200-4.467-1.936-4.467-4.408V17.927c0-2.43%201.963-4.408%204.376-4.408h21.982c9.14%200%2016.577%207.49%2016.577%2016.698%200%205.879-2.46%2010.687-6.944%2013.607l6.17%209.017c1.37%202.002.868%204.752-1.12%206.132a4.336%204.336%200%200%201-2.44.778h-.007Z'%20/%3e%3cpath%20d='M38.767%2027.797c0-.749.603-1.357%201.347-1.357h6.427c3.979%200%206.426%201.72%206.426%205.099v.123c0%203.132-2.325%205.098-6.365%205.098h-3.848l-3.985%203.998V36.76h-.002v-8.963'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3cpath%20fill='%23FFF'%20fill-rule='nonzero'%20d='M18.176%2069.2h2.156v3.878h3.976V69.2h2.156V79h-2.156v-3.934h-3.976V79h-2.156v-9.8Zm16.428%207.98c.43%200%20.826-.08%201.19-.238a2.72%202.72%200%200%200%20.931-.658c.257-.28.457-.604.602-.973a3.21%203.21%200%200%200%20.217-1.183V74.1c0-.42-.072-.817-.217-1.19-.145-.373-.35-.7-.616-.98a2.96%202.96%200%200%200-.945-.665%202.873%202.873%200%200%200-1.19-.245c-.439%200-.838.08-1.197.238-.36.159-.667.378-.924.658s-.457.604-.602.973a3.21%203.21%200%200%200-.217%201.183v.028c0%20.42.072.817.217%201.19a2.959%202.959%200%200%200%201.554%201.645c.36.163.758.245%201.197.245Zm-.028%201.988a5.343%205.343%200%200%201-2.086-.399%205.187%205.187%200%200%201-1.645-1.078%204.823%204.823%200%200%201-1.078-1.596%205.029%205.029%200%200%201-.385-1.967V74.1c0-.7.13-1.356.392-1.967a5.075%205.075%200%200%201%201.085-1.61%205.05%205.05%200%200%201%201.652-1.092%205.395%205.395%200%200%201%202.093-.399c.756%200%201.451.133%202.086.399a5.187%205.187%200%200%201%201.645%201.078c.462.453.821.985%201.078%201.596.257.611.385%201.267.385%201.967v.028c0%20.7-.13%201.356-.392%201.967a5.075%205.075%200%200%201-1.085%201.61%205.05%205.05%200%200%201-1.652%201.092%205.395%205.395%200%200%201-2.093.399Zm8.14-9.968h2.324l2.576%204.144%202.576-4.144h2.324V79h-2.142v-6.398l-2.758%204.186h-.056l-2.73-4.144V79h-2.114v-9.8Zm13.152%200h7.392v1.918h-5.25v1.988h4.62v1.918h-4.62v2.058h5.32V79h-7.462v-9.8Zm13.866%209.94a6.49%206.49%200%200%201-2.198-.385%205.817%205.817%200%200%201-1.96-1.183l1.274-1.526c.448.364.908.653%201.379.868.471.215.987.322%201.547.322.448%200%20.796-.082%201.043-.245a.771.771%200%200%200%20.371-.679v-.028a.85.85%200%200%200-.077-.371.778.778%200%200%200-.294-.301%203.079%203.079%200%200%200-.602-.28c-.257-.093-.59-.191-1.001-.294a12.201%2012.201%200%200%201-1.344-.406%203.787%203.787%200%200%201-1.022-.553%202.237%202.237%200%200%201-.651-.819c-.154-.327-.231-.733-.231-1.218v-.028c0-.448.084-.852.252-1.211.168-.36.404-.67.707-.931a3.183%203.183%200%200%201%201.085-.602c.42-.14.882-.21%201.386-.21a5.86%205.86%200%200%201%201.981.322%205.743%205.743%200%200%201%201.659.924l-1.12%201.624a7.1%207.1%200%200%200-1.288-.707%203.292%203.292%200%200%200-1.26-.259c-.42%200-.735.082-.945.245-.21.163-.315.366-.315.609v.028c0%20.159.03.296.091.413.06.117.17.222.329.315s.376.182.651.266c.275.084.623.182%201.043.294.495.13.936.278%201.323.441.387.163.714.36.98.588.266.229.467.497.602.805.135.308.203.677.203%201.106v.028c0%20.485-.089.917-.266%201.295a2.66%202.66%200%200%201-.742.952%203.353%203.353%200%200%201-1.134.588%204.924%204.924%200%200%201-1.456.203Z'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
Get our app for homeowners
- Send messages and get notifications from tradespeople
- Add photos to get more accurate quotes
- View tradespeople's profiles