It’s important to understand the features and sizes of the area you are working with before you begin your design. Start by carrying out a few simple measurements to work out exactly where your house sits in relation to boundaries, and remember to reference where trees or other features that you wish to keep are located. Also bear in mind the slope and shape of your garden, as well as practical considerations like the location of any utilities, vehicle access, out-buildings and so on.

A great way to get the ball rolling once you know your measurements is to draw a bubble diagram. This simply means using loose shapes to mark out the various areas of your garden and how you envisage them looking. The finished sketch should give you the proportions and paths through the landscape, as well as what you are going to need to purchase.