Rhythm in garden design describes the deliberate repetition of elements across a space to create visual movement and a sense of order. It operates through the measured recurrence of forms, materials, plants or structural features, guiding the eye from one
Layout is the spatial organisation of a garden. It defines the underlying geometry of a garden, establishing where boundaries fall and how levels and movement are resolved across the site. Before any surface is laid or plant chosen, layout determines
A site visit is a formal or informal attendance at a property or piece of land by a designer or contractor for the purpose of gathering information by assessing site conditions or checking work in progress. Within garden and landscape
Planting forms the living structure of a garden. It determines seasonal function and long-term durability. Plant selection sets drainage performance and establishes microclimates. Whether paths remain accessible or become overgrown depends on choices made at the specification stage. Light penetration
Plant choices refer to the selection process through which specific plant species are assigned to defined positions within a garden design. The term describes both the act of selection and the resulting assemblage of species documented within planting plans and
What is Soil? Soil literally forms the base for all planted garden design work. It determines which plants will survive, how structures perform over time as well as whether drainage systems function as intended. The term refers to the complete mineral
What is the Surrounding Landscape? In garden design, the surrounding landscape refers to the existing conditions beyond a site boundary that materially influence design decisions within it. These conditions include neighbouring gardens, street trees, adjacent buildings, borrowed views, topography and the
What is Layered Planting? Layered planting is a structured way of organising vegetation by height and role, arranged in horizontal levels. It builds vertical depth by placing plants in defined strata, usually moving from ground cover, to low perennials, to mid-height
What is Seasonal Interest? Seasonal interest is the deliberate planning of a garden so that different plants and spatial qualities provide visual engagement across all four seasons, rather than focusing impact into one short period. It relates both to how the
What is Design Development? Design Development is the stage where an approved concept evolves into a detailed, buildable design. This phase transforms the initial vision and spatial layout into specific decisions about materials, planting, levels, and construction details. It is the