Understanding landscape services

Landscape designing is carried out by professionals for a reason: it takes a good understanding of what will bring your outdoor spaces to life, which is why landscape services like David Kirkpatrick's are designed to ensure you can have your ambitions realised.

It's not just a case of picking up a garden hoe and digging lines, though.

What does it take to be a landscape designer?

There are TAFE courses through to bachelor degrees, but I recommend a few years experience with a landscape construction company before starting a course. You also need passion, a good sense of the aesthetics and co-ordinating space, and a minimum basic knowledge of horticulture and construction.

What should someone look for in choosing a landscape designer?

That they like the type of work the designer does. Also, that the designer is able to be accommodating and won't just do what they, the designer, wants.

Can you share a few low-cost pool landscaping tips?

Prefabricated pools, for example steel with liner or fibreglass insert are a low-cost option, but the size and location of the pool need to be considered, as the cheapest pool option may not be the best landscape solution. Native grasses are hardy, quick-growing, low-cost options for pool surrounds. 

What's the biggest budget blow-out in pool landscaping?

Rock requiring excavation or removal with explosives is a big budget blow-out. Another common one is pool-company contracts that don't include extras like connecting the power or putting in a proper filtration system.

What advice do you have for people budgeting for their pool landscape?

Get a landscape designer or architect to design the landscape before the pool, preferably as part of a whole budget package. Then you know where you stand up front and won't be caught out later with no money for paving, plants or lawn.

How would you describe your own landscaping at home?

I don't think we'll go there. I'm a bit like the cobbler whose children have no shoes.

Contact a landscape services in your area to find out which landscape designer will suit your outdoor requirements: