At North Hill Gardens, we understand that every garden is unique, and so are the clients who dream of transforming their outdoor spaces. Our design services are meticulously crafted to meet a diverse range of needs, budgets, and creative aspirations. Whether you're seeking a simple garden concept or a comprehensive landscape transformation, we have a tailored solution to bring your vision to life.
How We Work
Crafting Your Outdoor Vision
Our Design Services
Essential
Key requirement:
Client must have a clear budget from the start
Process culminates in presentation of initial concept
10% of declared construction budget
Initial deposit: £1,000
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Deliverables
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- Site analysis
- Design rationale
- Mood boards
- Masterplan
- Detailed visuals
- Material selection
- Cost estimates
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Best suited for
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- The majority of gardens that we build
- Projects that don’t require extensive technical documentation
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Limitations
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Focuses on design concept rather than technical aspects; may need upgrading to Extensive process for construction details
Extensive
Includes everything in Essential Design PLUS:
Additional elements charged separately.
More structured than Custom, but still flexible for additions.
Preferred by North Hill Gardens for most complex projects.
10% of budget (Essential Design) + additional charges
Initial deposit: £1,000
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Deliverables
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Essential Design + required elements such as:
- A set of technical drawings and specifications required for the construction
- Detailed planting plans
- Architect’s site supervision
- Planning permission/building warrant administration
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Best suited for
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- More complex projects with an established construction budget
- Projects to be built by external contractors
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Limitations
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While there is no limit to the amendments or additional elements that can be incorporated into the design, each will incur an additional fee, which will be estimated upon request.
Custom
Works on an upfront payment system
Client provides "pot of money"
Used until depleted, then refreshed
Less preferred by NHG due to administrative overhead
Hourly rates (ranging from £60-£150/hour depending on staff level)
Initial deposit: £1,000
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Deliverables
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- A fully flexible, tailored set of design drawings based on the client’s specific requirements.
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Best suited for
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- Larger projects
- Clients with unlimited/flexible budgets
- Projects requiring ongoing design changes
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Limitations
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- Most flexible option that can include all services from other packages
- Charged based on time tracking
- Progress reports provided to track time and budget usage
Workshop
Process
Initial design concept happens at client's property
Team takes measurements and discusses requirements on-site
Concept is then digitized into 2D flat design at the office
£15 per square meter
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Deliverables
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- Quick site measurement
- Workshop meeting (up to 3 hours)
- Simple concept floorplan
- Cost estimation
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Best suited for
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- Simple, straightforward projects under £20k
- Clients who know exactly what they want
- Projects requiring minimal creative or complex design work
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Limitations
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- Not suitable for complex sites with slopes, large areas, or custom features
Universal Construction Requirements
30% upfront payment for materials and plant hire
Payment plan based on construction timeline
Final payment upon completion
Guarantee and care guide provided at project closure
For more information, please visit our:
Finances and Processes
Navigating the journey of garden design can seem complex, but our transparent and flexible approach simplifies the process. Each of our design packages is structured to provide clarity, value, and exceptional design expertise. From initial consultation to final construction, we offer comprehensive financial models that adapt to your project's specific requirements. For a detailed exploration of our pricing structures, design fee calculations, and payment processes, please refer to our dedicated Finances and Processes guide, which provides in-depth insights into how we approach project funding and financial management.