I am Scott Nell,
I’ve been designing gardens for nearly 20 years and I've experience with both residential and commercial designing. Good landscapers prefer to work from drawings, there's little room for error, you know you're all on the same page, and of course, if you're getting multiple quotes, then everyone is quoting on the same project. The process ;
I'll come out and view your garden and d
iscuss with you what your requirements are, I may make some suggestions you've not even thought about. I'll give you a price for my works during this appointment, I can leave you to think it over if you like. I won't contact you after this appointment until you confirm to go ahead. Once commencement is confirmed then Ill return to measure and photograph your design area. Most clients accept the price during the appointment and I measure up there and then, but there is no pressure to do so. If the client is unsure on paving etc then I'll often arrange to meet at local merchants to help pick them out, I can get trade discounts on certain products which do help with the project costs. Once I start your design then payment is due in full, I'll invoice this to you, usually via email. Usually, at the point of invoicing, I've already done my preliminary sketches and started with my computer drawings. For most garden projects, I'll be sending you design images for proofing within a few days. The proofing images will come with basic descriptions, we can discuss the images either over the phone, via email, or face to face. The aim is to make any necessary changes to the design at this point. We have this back and forth until you are happy with the design. Once the design is approved, then I can produce the write up, main material list, planting suggestions, proposed lighting plan, and all the scale drawings with measurements. You will receive a digital and printed copy of this document. I can then arrange a landscaper to come in to quote, or I can work with your preferred builder or landscaper. I've even worked projects where the homeowner is doing the construction, and my knowledge and expertise is especially essential for this kind of project. During the project, I'm your consultant. I've knowledge and experience in construction. If I've designed it, then I already know how to build it. I work on your behalf. Not the builders. I advise any changes being made during construction are ran by me. Sometimes better options become evident, and sometimes changes being made by a builder are for their benefit, not yours. My aim is for you to have a great outer space, a real extension to your home. Initial appointment is free and there is no obligation to proceed.
