Our Process
From first conversation
to a landscape with
lasting purpose.
A considered approach
Every project begins with context, not a predetermined style.
The character of a landscape is shaped by its setting: architecture, topography, movement, light, views, existing vegetation and the way the place will be used over time.
Designstreet brings these elements together through a clear sequence of research, analysis, design development and technical resolution. Each stage builds naturally on the one before it, allowing ideas to be tested, refined and translated into a practical landscape.
The Designstreet process
Seven connected stages.
The scale and detail of each stage are tailored to the project, but the underlying approach remains consistent.
Discover
Beginning with a conversation.
The first stage establishes what the project needs to achieve and what success should look and feel like.
We begin by discussing the site, the wider project, your priorities and the practical parameters that will shape the commission. This creates a clear foundation before any design work begins.
Early conversations may also identify planning considerations, specialist reports, coordination requirements and the most appropriate scope of service.
This stage considers
- Project objectives
- Scope and priorities
- Budget parameters
- Programme and phasing
- Planning context
- Project team
Understand
Reading the site in detail.
A strong landscape design grows from an informed understanding of the place in which it will sit.
Site visits, available surveys and supporting information are reviewed to identify the defining physical and environmental characteristics of the landscape.
Existing architecture, levels, boundaries, vegetation, orientation, views, access, movement and surrounding context all contribute to the emerging design response.
Site considerations
- Topography and levels
- Existing trees and planting
- Sun, shade and exposure
- Views and visual connections
- Access and circulation
- Wider landscape character
Interpret
Turning analysis into direction.
Information becomes useful when it reveals where the real opportunities and constraints lie.
The site analysis is distilled into a clear landscape strategy. Important relationships are identified between buildings, outdoor spaces, routes, boundaries, planting and the wider setting.
This stage establishes the design principles that will guide the project and provides a reasoned basis for the decisions that follow.
The emerging strategy
- Opportunities and constraints
- Landscape structure
- Spatial relationships
- Key views and screening
- Movement and arrival
- Relationship to architecture
Imagine
Giving form to the central idea.
The concept design establishes the atmosphere, structure and identity of the proposed landscape.
Initial ideas are explored through plans, sketches, reference imagery and material thinking. The aim is to create a coherent response rather than a collection of disconnected features.
The concept is presented clearly so that the overall direction can be understood, discussed and refined before further detail is developed.
Concept design may explore
- Overall spatial layout
- Character and atmosphere
- Hard landscape materials
- Planting direction
- Levels and transitions
- Focal points and experiences
Develop
Refining the landscape as a complete composition.
The approved concept is developed into a more coordinated, detailed and technically informed design.
Materials, levels, planting, boundaries, movement and key features are refined together. The landscape is coordinated with the architecture and with other members of the design team where required.
Decisions are tested against the original brief, ensuring that the design remains practical, coherent and aligned with the wider ambition for the project.
Design development
- Plans and spatial refinement
- Material selection
- Planting strategy
- Levels and drainage principles
- Lighting coordination
- Design-team integration
Resolve
Translating design intent into clear information.
A successful concept must ultimately be capable of being understood, priced, approved and constructed.
Depending on the scope of appointment, the developed design can be supported by technical drawings, schedules, specifications, planning information and other project-specific documentation.
This stage provides the clarity needed for coordination, procurement, planning or construction while protecting the essential design intent.
Project information may include
- Technical landscape drawings
- Planting plans and schedules
- Material schedules
- Planning documentation
- Visual impact information
- Tender or construction information
Deliver
Supporting the landscape as it becomes real.
The final stage connects the design work with implementation, establishment and the long-term success of the landscape.
Where included within the appointment, Designstreet can support the project during procurement and construction through design clarification, coordination and site review.
Completion is not simply the end of a drawing process. It is the beginning of a living landscape that will mature, adapt and gain character over time.
Delivery support may include
- Contractor coordination
- Design clarification
- Site inspections
- Plant and material review
- Completion review
- Establishment guidance
A tailored appointment
The right level of service for the project.
Not every commission requires every stage in equal detail. The process can be shaped around the scale, programme and specific needs of the project.
Private landscapes
A carefully managed design process for contemporary gardens, rural homes and high-quality residential landscapes.
Architecture and development
Landscape input coordinated with architects, developers, engineers and wider multidisciplinary design teams.
Planning-led projects
Landscape strategies, supporting documentation and visual assessment developed in response to planning requirements.
Commercial and public realm
Clear landscape thinking for places that must balance identity, movement, durability, ecology and long-term use.
What remains constant
Clear thinking.
Considered decisions.
Purposeful landscapes.
Clarity
Ideas and decisions are communicated in a way that clients and project teams can readily understand.
Collaboration
The strongest outcomes emerge through open dialogue and informed coordination throughout the project.
Rigour
Design decisions are grounded in the realities of the site, the brief and the requirements of delivery.
Longevity
Landscapes are conceived as living places that should improve, mature and retain their relevance over time.
Frequently asked
Understanding the process.
Every project is different, but these are some of the questions that commonly arise at the beginning of a commission.
When should a landscape architect become involved?
Ideally, landscape input begins early. Early involvement allows the relationship between architecture, access, levels, boundaries, planting and planning requirements to be considered together rather than addressed later.
Does every project follow all seven stages?
No. The process is adapted to the commission. Some projects require a complete service from initial analysis through construction, while others may need concept design, planning support or a specific landscape assessment.
Can Designstreet work alongside an architect?
Yes. Landscape architecture is often most effective when developed in close coordination with the architect, developer, engineer and other members of the project team.
Can the process support a planning application?
Yes. Depending on the project, the appointment can include landscape strategies, plans, supporting reports and visual impact assessment work required for the planning process.
Can a project be completed in phases?
Yes. A clear overall strategy can be established first and then developed or delivered in appropriate phases according to budget, planning, construction or seasonal considerations.
How long does the design process take?
Timescales vary according to project complexity, information availability, planning requirements, coordination and the scope of service. A suitable programme can be discussed at the beginning of the commission.
Begin a project
Every successful landscape begins by understanding the site.
Tell us about your project, its location and what you would like the landscape to achieve.