Do you ever look out of the window, and wish your garden would come to life? We all live busy lives, and garden maintenance often falls by the wayside. But, what if you could employ a garden designer to add beauty and excitement to your outside space. Imagine creating an area that you could enjoy in the summer. Think about a patio you could use to entertain friends in the warm evenings. Or a brilliant lawn for the children to play on.
If this idea is creeping into the back of your head, perhaps you ought to consider a garden designer They will professionally create the garden of your dreams, and add a professional finish. The only trouble is paying for it. So exactly how much should you spend on garden landscaping?
As a percentage of your house value?
The professionals suggest setting aside between 4-10% of your house value to renovate the garden. The figure is based on how much value you'll actually add by taking on this project. The garden is one of the focal points of any property. New buyers will always look for an outdoor space, and they prioritize it highly. Not only that but you'll get years of enjoyment out of it yourself. If you're struggling to pluck a figure from the air, try to stick within this boundary,
As a percentage of your overall garden renovation?
If you've got some money earmarked for garden renovation, it's not easy to figure out how much to set aside for the design. Hiring a garden designer is a little like commissioning an architect when building a house. It's a case of deciding how important those initial plans are. If you ask us, they're the most important part of the renovation. A good designer will provide a beautiful and bespoke design. They'll also help you find the right people, and source the best materials, saving you money in the long run. We suggest spending at least 10% of your total budget on the design itself.
Length and details of the job
Of course, the price will vary according to the length of the job in question. It also rests on the involvement of the designer. Do you want them to oversee the entire project after drawing up the plans? Naturally, a longer project means you'll need to budget higher for your landscaper. It also depends on what ideas are involved. The design and build of a pond, for example, will cost more than a simple lawn design.
Quality of the designer
Last of all, the budget will take into account the quality and experience of the designer in question. The better qualified the designer, the more you can expect to pay. It all comes down to their portfolio and previous clients. Are they a member of the Society of garden designers? That will add a little extra to the price tag.
In the end, it's up to you to weigh up these factors, and set yourself some initial figures. Many garden designers and landscapers are open to negotiation, so approach them with your budget. Good luck!
