The Design Process

At Oaka, we make the garden design process simple and stress-free, guiding you through consultation, design, project management and planting with expert care for clients across Bath, Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire and the South West.

Consultation, Design & Project Management.

Stage 1: Consultation

The first step in our garden design process is a home visit to assess your garden and evaluate the space. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your ideas and aspirations, taking note of specific needs, preferences and practical considerations. We’ll also identify potential challenges, such as limited access or sloping terrain, that may impact the project. After thoroughly assessing the site and discussing your vision, we prepare a design proposal and report. This includes a summary of the design approach along with associated fees, providing a clear understanding of the next steps.

Stage 2: Site Survey & Design

We revisit the site to conduct a detailed topographical survey, which will be documented with a report provided for your records. Using this survey data, we create a series of concept designs for your new garden. At this stage, the emphasis will be on establishing the overall layout of the garden rather than focusing on detailed specifics. Additionally, moodboards will be incorporated to offer inspiration and enhance the concepts.

Stage 3: Final Design

Once concept models have been discussed, we develop a comprehensive outline plan. This stage finalises the details of material choices, new features such as water elements or garden lighting, and planting schemes. Additional imagery is provided to give you a clear visualisation of the final garden design. Every detail is confirmed to ensure you are happy before proceeding to the next stage.

Stage 4: Project Management

We collaborate with a wide network of trusted, experienced landscapers across Bath, Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire and the South West, ensuring exceptional results for every project. From the outset, we guide you on costs and budgeting. Once construction begins, we can also provide project management services. Our priority is ensuring that our designs are brought to life in the most stunning and impactful way possible!

Stage 5: Planting Plan

Often the final touch, but to us, the most important one, is introducing plants that truly bring your project to life. A well-thought-out planting plan brings the garden to life, and our expertise ensures the plants can thrive. We will discuss your preferences for the planting palette, as well as the level of maintenance your garden will receive after planting. Drawing on our extensive horticultural expertise, we will consider the specific conditions of your garden—such as soil pH, sunlight exposure, wind exposure, and soil quality—to create a planting plan tailored for success. Photos of all suggested plants will be presented on moodboards for your reference.

What our clients are saying…

  • Working with Ryan at Oaka was a great experience. Not only was he extremely professional but handled everything with care. He really listened to what we wanted out of our garden/project and it translated into a great space which we use everyday. I highly recommend his services and will do without hesitation. Thanks Ryan for everything!

    Thomas Fletcher

  • Ryan managed to take our initial idea and bring it to life. Nothing was to much hassle, no idea to silly. Every step of the way we were informed on what was going on, down to every detail. The end result is amazing - we couldn't be happier and we now have a space we enjoy every day! We would highly recommend Ryan and his team.

    Aaron Lesley

  • We couldn't be more thrilled with how everything turned out. Ryan really cared about what we wanted, listened to our needs and hit every expectation. What we have been given and left with is a space we can use all year round. Ryan and his team really took the time to listen to us and put our ideas at the forefront of his design. Although it was challenging at times we always felt informed and cared for through every step of the build.

    Dan Morris

Ready to transform your outdoor space?

Let’s design, build and grow something exceptional together.

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