At the beginning of a garden plan, Jamie concentrates on the creation of spaces of different atmosphere and use within the overall garden. From there, the furnishing and decoration of these spaces is developed. Distinctive elements of Jamie Macphail's garden designs are his use of natural, indigenous elements - especially stone, rock and plants (see Features and Photo pages).
Often incorporated into the overall design is a "paradise" area. This is a walled or concealed enclosure that offers a contrast to the main theme of the garden, and provides a private sanctuary.
Most of his designs incorporate the use of water and ornaments from bold contemporary shapes to antique pieces. Jamie enjoys the careful placement of garden ornament, and has an ability to source unusual pieces of ornament and artwork.
There are six steps in the process
of designing a garden
STEP ONE • Initial Consultation & Site Visit
This step provides the opportunity for Jamie to talk with you about your vision of the project and your needs. It also provides an opportunity for you to evaluate Jamie's ability to meet your needs. The relationship between You and Jamie is an important one, and there needs to be an ease of communication that allows for the free flow of ideas and information.
STEP TWO • Site Evaluation & Survey
This involves the gathering of as much information about the site as possible, from the physical conditions, through to cultural and historical factors. The genesis of a design may stem from an aspect of the site that is not immediately apparent.
The more information you can provide in terms of architectural and engineering plans, the better.
Another important aspect of this step is the evaluation of the relationship between the house and the garden. If the house is yet to be constructed, consultation with the architect is always valuable.
STEP THREE • The Brief
Once you have described your needs and wants, and the site has been surveyed, Jamie generates a brief for the design. This is in written form and sets out the framework for the design.
Once the brief has been considered, consulted upon and agreed Jamie is able to quote a design fee.
STEP FOUR • Initial Concept
Often simply sketched, this is a loose idea for the style and form of the garden - little detail but an overview of the complete design. Several drafts may be required to develop a satisfactory concept.
STEP FIVE • Developed Concept
Once the initial concept is agreed upon, a developed concept is prepared. This involves more detail. It is drawn to scale, with a clear indication of the materials to be used, the types of plants to be used, and gives the look of any structures such as swimming pools or pergolas.
A developed concept will contain sufficient information for you to be able to visualise the finished garden. There may be rendered drawings, cross sections and thumbnail sketches involved.
STEP SIX • Construction Drawings
To be able to precisely estimate the cost of, and arrange construction, very detailed drawings are often required. These can include such things as earthworks, drainage, construction of features and planting.
Often consultation and input is required from a range of experts, such as engineers, to complete this stage of planning.
At the completion of this stage of planning the drawings are ready to be submitted to contractors to supply quotes.
