Frequently Asked Questions

How does the design process work?
This is covered in detail in my brochure but in short…We meet, figure out what you’ll love, and using measurements and site information, explore what is possible. I produce plans that can be implemented immediately or in stages, by yourself or by a professional contractor.

I don’t know anything about gardening, so is there any point in investing in garden design?

Absolutely! People have been wising up for years to the benefits a well-designed garden can bring to your life, and you don’t need to know anything about gardening to enjoy everything a garden has to offer.  If you’d rather keep maintenance to a minimum, we’ll discuss this at our initial meeting.  If you’d like to get involved with looking after your new plants, I’ll give you some helpful tips at the handover stage, and these will be printed so you can refer to them at any time.

Do you implement the design?
Not usually – I focus on what I do best, which is producing beautiful plans for your individual needs. The groundworks and building can then be carried out by qualified contractors. I can provide you with contact details of recommended landscape contractors to carry out your plans.

Can you provide a tendering service and project management of the build?
Yes – just talk to me to find out more about this.

How long does the design process take?
Generally several weeks, although it could be longer for more complicated projects. If you need your plans urgently I’ll see what I can do to help, but the sooner you get in touch the better.

Can I build my garden in stages?
Absolutely! When you have your plans, you can implement them at your own pace, as time and budget allows. The plans help you to divide your garden project into manageable parts while giving you the confidence that when fully complete, those parts will form a coherent whole that does justice to your property.

I’m thinking of building or renovating – at what stage should I get the design process started?
As soon as possible. Having a plan for the outdoor space at the beginning – even if you don’t want to build the garden yet – will help you during the construction process and allow you to make the most of any opportunities in relation to groundworks while you have manpower and machinery on site.

My house is under construction – is this a good time to think about garden design?
Yes, because knowing exactly how your outdoor space is to be shaped in the long term is particularly useful during the build. Also, potential savings and a better overall result can be achieved, by considering areas such as access, levels, and parking. Really savvy clients call me in at the planning permission stage.

Does Anne Byrne Garden Design take on projects in my area?
I’m based in the west of Ireland and many of the gardens I work on are here, but I have designed gardens all across Ireland and in the UK, so if you think I might be the designer for you please do get in touch!

My budget is very small – do I still need garden design?
Yes, because investing in a well-designed plan will help you to maximise your budget. Part of my job is to make this happen. I am often hired by clients who have spent quite a lot on their gardens already but are still unhappy with the result. Investment in professional garden design pays for itself in terms of maximising your garden’s potential and helping you to avoid expensive mistakes.

Is there a good time of year for starting a garden or to begin planting?
There are some rules about seasonal planting but don’t worry, I’ll go through this with you. Hard landscaping (i.e. building) can be done year round. The first thing you need is a completed set of plans and everything else follows. Remember that it can take several weeks to produce plans and there is usually a few weeks’ wait for a consultation, especially at busier times of year.

Some landscapers offer a ‘full design and installation service’ – so is there any point in hiring a garden designer?
Yes, if you want your garden to be designed to suit you and your site, perfectly. If you want your individual needs and those of your family taken into account, if you want the best possible use made of every inch of space, and if you want creative ideas and original solutions from someone who has taken the time to get to know your needs and wishes down to tiny detail. Also if you want the finished garden to look amazing!

What does garden design cost?
A number of design packages are available and you can find details of these in my brochure. If you don’t see something to suit your requirements, talk to me and we should be able to come up with a solution to suit you.

Can I see images of your projects?
Certainly – check my website, Instagram feed and Facebook page.

Can you advise me on sourcing materials?
Yes, that’s part of the design process. I can provide details for paving, walling, fencing, planting and all other parts of the project.

I have absolutely no idea what I want to do with the garden – can you help me?
Yes. We’ll start with the practical things, which helps me to build a picture of what you need, and then move on to the aesthetics. Your garden design will sit perfectly with your home and its surroundings, whether urban, rural or coastal!

Can you also design the planted areas?
Absolutely – your plans include detailed planting plans for each and every area within the garden including trees, shrubs, hedges, perennials and ground cover. Plants are chosen to appeal to you visually, factoring in your site, climate, shelter and soil situation. They will also be chosen to fit with your preferred level of maintenance.