How much does a garden designer cost?

If you’re planning to redesign your garden, understanding the cost of hiring a garden designer is an essential starting point. The cost of a garden designer can vary greatly, depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the designer’s experience and location. For small projects, garden designers typically charge around 20% of your total budget. For medium projects up to £60,000, the fees drop to about 15%, and for larger projects, it can be as low as 10%. Some designers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from £60 to £200 depending on their location and expertise. Remember, the investment in a professional designer can often be offset by cost savings and the added value to your home.

Set a Budget You Are Comfortable With

Your garden designer can either work to a strict maximum budget or provide ideas based on different budget options. It’s also common to develop a garden in stages, allowing the space to mature over time. If you have a solid overall design or plan, you can split the budget into smaller, more manageable amounts spread over several years.

Estimate According to the Value of Your Property

It is commonly accepted that a well-designed garden can add between 5 and 15% to the value of your property, and even more as it matures over time. This makes designing a new garden a worthwhile investment not only in terms of personal enjoyment but also in monetary value. Setting a budget that is around 5 to 10% of your home’s value is a sensible starting point.

OR Estimate by Square Meter

If you prefer a more granular approach, you can estimate your budget by square meter. Excluding the designer’s fees, a very basic landscaped garden starts at around £100 per square meter. For projects focused primarily on planting, the cost could be as low as £30 per square meter. Keep in mind that these figures can vary based on the specific needs and quality of your garden.

Other Budget Considerations

A variety of factors can influence your budget. The complexity of landscaping work and the inclusion of structures like fences or fountains can drive up costs. Other considerations include the choice of materials, the workmanship quality of the contractor, the condition of the site (e.g., a wet garden may cost 50% more), and site access, which might restrict the use of certain time-saving machinery.

What’s the Difference Between a Garden Designer and a Landscape Designer?

While the titles “garden designer” and “landscape designer” are often used interchangeably, there are some distinctions. Landscape designers typically handle larger-scale projects and focus on optimizing the ground in relation to building work. In contrast, garden designers specialize in creating and maintaining smaller aesthetic areas, with a focus on the long-term well-being of plants. That said, there is considerable overlap between the two, as both will generally be knowledgeable about soft landscaping and design principles.

By focusing on understanding the costs and carefully planning your budget, you can create a beautiful garden that enhances both your property value and your enjoyment of outdoor space.

by Emily,  Design for Me

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