When taking on a landscaper, it’s important to know what you want ahead of time, so we asked Tim Sykes of Gardenproud for a list of key questions we should ask ourselves and have answers for

What are the must haves?
Consider your main objectives – do you want a terrace, a lawned area, an outside office, new fencing, more privacy, a kitchen garden, a hot tub or swimming pool, for example?

What are the nice-to-haves?
Are you interested in trellis screening, an arbour, a pergola, garden lighting? Or perhaps a focal point like a sculpture, fire pit area, a water feature, outdoor kitchen or herb garden?

Do you have any budget parameters in mind?

What sort of gardens do you like?
Is there a style that interests you like contemporary, traditional, Japanese, Australian, English Cottage, low maintenance etc?

How does it need to integrate with your house?
Is your house contemporary, period, cottage, Edwardian etc? Are there any additions like a new orangery or kitchen extension?

Do you especially like, or dislike any materials? 

Are there any plants or trees you particularly like, or dislike?

Are you keen gardeners, occasional gardeners or not interested in gardening?

What sort of lifestyle do you lead?
Do you love barbecues, like sitting around a fire pit, play boules? Do you like cooking or travel a lot?

What about your family?
Do you have children? If so, how old are they and how do they use the garden?

Do you have pets, or animals in a country setting that the landscaper should be made aware of?

For further advice or help with the design for your garden then speak to Tim Sykes at Gardenproud on 07725 173820, see Gardenproud’s Show Garden at Corker Outdoor Living, Paddock Wood, or visit
the website reallygardenproud.com

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