Introduction to Garden Design

Introduction to the Principles of Garden Design

	SUITABILITY Suitable for complete beginners and of particular relevance to anybody wanting to re-design their own garden DURATION One day per week for ten weeks (10.00am – 2.30pm) LOCATION Hampton Court Palace

This inspiring part-time course is ideal for anyone looking for a really thorough, practical introduction to garden design, whether for a specific project or just for their own interest. While it is not directly aimed at those looking to gain a professional qualification and work in the industry, it could also provide a valuable first step for anyone considering more in depth study.

Our practising professional designers will take students chronologically through the process of a garden design project – from setting the brief and the principles of garden design through to selecting plants and materials.

Whether students are looking to create a contemporary urban garden, the structured tranquillity of a traditional garden or a naturalistic rural garden, they will be shown how to develop their creative ideas into a cohesive scheme through a combination of lectures and workshops.

By the end of the course, students should have the confidence to plan simple garden plans, create a cohesive look, put together a planting plan and finding and working with contractors. The syllabus includes:-

• The starting point (where to begin, how to get inspiration and turn ideas into reality)
• Site surveys (what exists, identifying potential and constraints)
• Functional layouts (basic design principles for good garden planning)
• Garden themes and how to create your own style
• Planting design (principles, using form, texture and colour, planting for special garden habitats, creating year round interest)
• Types and names of plants (inspirational tour of gardens at Hampton Court Palace)
• Creative planting (introducing structure with trees, plants and shrubs, border planning, grouping plants, effective combinations)
• Practical gardening techniques from soil improvement to plant care and management (practical session in the 20th Century Gardens)
• Materials and finishes (introduction to hard landscaping including water features and drainage)
• Finishing touches (lighting, accessories and garden furniture)