Frequently Asked Questions
Every garden we design starts with a conversation. Not just about planting or layout, but about how you live, how you want to use the space, and what you want your garden to give back to you over time.
The questions below cover practical topics such as cost, timescales, and process, as well as how we approach design, planting, and long-term care. A garden is a significant investment, and good decisions start with good information.
About Gregson-Brown Design
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We design gardens for country houses, listed properties, period rectories, farmhouses, and large private homes across Yorkshire, the North East, and the East Midlands. Most of our projects involve properties with generous grounds, whether period homes or large new builds, where the garden needs to respond to the architecture, the landscape, and the way the house is used.
We take on a small number of commissions each year, which means each project receives the time and attention it needs.
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We are based in North Yorkshire and work with clients across Yorkshire, the North East, and the East Midlands. We are happy to work further afield where the project is the right fit.
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Every project starts with the site, the architecture, and the way the client wants to use their garden. We design from the ground up rather than applying a fixed style, though our work is rooted in naturalistic planting, considered spatial design, and a strong connection between the garden and its wider landscape.
We produce detailed masterplans, planting schemes, and construction documentation, and we stay closely involved through the build to make sure the design is delivered properly.
Garden Design Costs & Availability
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Design fees depend on the scale of the garden and the level of detail involved. A full design service covering concept design, detailed plans, planting schemes, and construction documentation will typically run into several thousand pounds.
Good design pays for itself during the build. It resolves decisions early, avoids costly changes on site, and gives contractors clear information to price and work from. We're always happy to talk this through openly from the first conversation.
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Build costs vary widely depending on the size of the garden, the materials, and the level of detail in the design. A garden with high-quality hard landscaping, bespoke structures, mature planting, and features like a garden room or outdoor kitchen will naturally involve a larger investment than a simpler scheme.
We work through budget expectations early in the process so the design develops in line with what you want to spend. There are no surprises.
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As early as possible. Design takes time to do well, and starting the conversation early gives us space to understand the site, develop ideas properly, and plan the build around the right time of year.
Even if your project is still at an early stage, it is always worth getting in touch. We can talk through what is involved and whether the project is a good fit before anything is committed.
The Design Process
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We follow a five-phase process that takes a project from the first conversation through to a fully established garden.
It begins with a detailed site survey and a conversation about how you want to use the space. From there, we develop a concept design that sets the overall layout, spatial structure, and character of the garden. Once the concept is agreed, we move into detailed design, producing scaled drawings, planting plans, and construction documentation that allow the garden to be built accurately.
During the build, we stay closely involved to make sure the design is delivered as intended. After planting, we provide guidance to help the garden establish and develop over its first few seasons.
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Yes. Many of our projects involve collaboration with architects, landscape contractors, and other specialists. We are used to working as part of a wider project team, particularly on country house and listed property projects where the garden needs to sit alongside architectural work.
We can help with briefing and selecting contractors, reviewing quotes, and staying involved during construction to protect the integrity of the design. This gives you confidence that the finished garden reflects the original vision.
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It depends on the scale and complexity, but most projects follow a similar shape. The design phase typically takes two to four months, covering concept development, detailed drawings, and planting plans. The build phase can range from one to several months depending on the size and detail of the garden.
We focus on getting things right rather than rushing the process. Clear planning early on means fewer problems once construction begins.
Planting & Aftercare
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Our work is rooted in naturalistic planting. We design schemes that are layered, seasonal, and grounded in the landscape, using a mix of perennials, grasses, shrubs, and trees to create gardens that develop character over time.
Plant choices are always guided by the site, the soil, the light, and the character of the property. The aim is planting that feels generous and considered from the start, and that improves with each year as it matures.
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It depends on the planting and the size of the garden, but a well-designed scheme should not become a burden. Our naturalistic planting approach uses dense, layered planting that covers the soil well, which helps suppress weeds and reduces the need for constant intervention.
Most of our gardens benefit from seasonal attention rather than weekly upkeep. We can advise on what is involved and, where needed, help connect you with a gardener who understands the planting and how it should be managed.
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Yes. We offer aftercare support for gardens we have designed, helping to make sure the planting establishes well and the garden develops as intended.
This might involve seasonal visits, written guidance, or connecting you with a maintenance gardener who knows the design and can look after it properly. The level of involvement depends on the project and what you need.
Discussing a project
Gregson-Brown Design takes on a small number of commissions each year, working alongside architects, landscape contractors, and clients across Yorkshire, the North East, and the East Midlands. To discuss a project, please get in touch.