Transforming your outdoor space into a beautiful and functional garden is an exciting endeavour. Not only does garden design enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, but it also adds significant value. While it can be a worthwhile investment, understanding the costs of a garden makeover involved is essential. This guide explores the factors that influence garden design costs, the benefits of hiring a professional designer, and what to expect throughout the process.

Contents

Introduction to Garden Design
The Role of a Garden Designer
Understanding Garden Design Costs
- Factors Influencing Costs
- How Garden Designers Charge
Why Hire a Garden Designer?
Installation and Maintenance Costs
Long-Term Investment Value
Cost Comparisons for 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for Contemporary Garden Design?

1. Introduction to Garden Design

Transforming your outdoor space into a stunning, functional garden is one of the most rewarding projects you can undertake. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful sanctuary, a vibrant entertainment space, or a wildlife-friendly haven, a well-executed garden makeover can significantly elevate your home’s aesthetic—and its value. While a garden transformation is a meaningful investment, understanding the costs involved is essential for making confident, informed decisions.

This guide will walk you through the full scope of what it costs to work with a garden designer in 2025, from design to maintenance, and why it’s a long-term investment well worth making.

Garden Design: More Than Just Aesthetic

Garden design is not just about choosing plants and laying paths. It’s the thoughtful process of crafting an outdoor space that feels emotionally fulfilling and practically functional. A well-designed garden can bring joy throughout the seasons, provide a place for rest and reflection, and even enhance your wellbeing.

The most successful gardens aren’t just beautiful—they’re deeply personal. Whether evoking calm, happiness, or a sense of adventure, a garden becomes an extension of your home and lifestyle.

2. The Role of a Garden Designer

What Does a Garden Designer Do?

A professional garden designer brings your ideas to life, starting with an initial consultation and ending with the final planting. They will refine your vision, suggest suitable plants, source materials, draft scaled plans, and often manage the project through to completion.

The designer acts as both creative and logistical lead—coordinating landscapers, checking progress on-site, and ensuring your outdoor space develops exactly as imagined. With a designer on board, the process becomes more enjoyable and far less stressful.

3. Understanding Garden Design Costs

The cost of a garden design project depends on various factors, including size, complexity, materials, and the designer’s expertise.

Factors Influencing Costs

Size of the Garden: Larger spaces require more labour and materials.
Complexity of Design: Features like water elements or intricate layouts increase costs.
Materials: High-quality or bespoke materials elevate the budget.
Designer Expertise: Experienced designers may charge more but often deliver better long-term value.

How Garden Designers Charge

Percentage of Budget:
- £20,000 budget: 16% fee
- £50,000 budget: 12.5% fee
- £100,000 budget: 10% fee
Hourly Rate: Typically £60–£200 per hour, covering site visits, drawings, and project admin.
Garden Survey: Essential for accurate design, costing £450–£800 depending on garden size.

4. Why Hire a Garden Designer?

While it’s tempting to take on your garden makeover alone, a professional designer adds immense value:
- Creative Vision: Designers bring clarity and cohesion to your ideas, turning them into stunning, realistic plans.
- Practical Expertise: They anticipate challenges, optimise planting schemes, and select sustainable, suitable materials.
- Stress-Free Execution: From contractors to deliveries, your designer ensures everything runs smoothly.
- Added Property Value: A professionally designed garden can increase your home’s value by up to 20%.
- Emotional Reward: Watching your dream space come to life under expert hands is a deeply satisfying experience.

5. Installation and Maintenance Costs

Installation

After the design comes the build. Installation costs vary significantly based on scale and complexity. High-end materials and intricate designs require more skilled labour and time.

If you prefer to do it yourself, our Garden Vision Package gives you the plans to carry out the project independently or with your own tradespeople. This approach can reduce costs but requires more time and involvement on your part.

Maintenance

Ongoing maintenance is another aspect to factor in. Even the most low-maintenance gardens need regular care—watering, pruning, feeding, and seasonal updates. Hiring a professional gardener ensures your space stays healthy and beautiful all year round.

6. Long-Term Investment Value

A well-designed garden can increase property value by up to 20%. Sustainable features, like drought-resistant plants, can reduce maintenance costs over time. Beyond finances, a beautiful garden enriches your daily life, creating a personal sanctuary.

7. Cost Comparisons for 2025

Here’s an overview of potential costs based on garden size:

Garden Size	Simple Design & Install	Professional Design & Install
Small (30–50 m²)	£5,000–£10,000	£15,000+
Medium (50–100 m²)	£20,000–£50,000	Higher with custom features
Large (100+ m²)	From £30,000	£50,000+ based on complexity

Achart pie of a cost breakdown of a garden project with the total value of £50000.

A cost breakdown of a previous project with a total investment of £ 50 000.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth hiring a garden designer?
Yes. While DIY may seem appealing, professional designers maximise potential and minimise costly mistakes.

How long does a garden design take?
Designs typically take 2–6 weeks, with installation lasting 2–6 months depending on scope.

9. Looking for Contemporary Garden Design?

If you’re ready to transform your garden into a stunning outdoor space, professional garden designer Victoria Rumens can help. Known for contemporary, coastal, sustainable designs, Victoria creates gardens that blend seamlessly with nature while reflecting your unique style.

Get in Touch

To discuss your garden design project and see examples of past projects for inspiration, get in touch with us today. Your dream garden is just a conversation away!

Start your dream Garden here