+ What are my options if I can’t build or re-build my entire garden at once?

Many of our clients take a phased approach to create their garden. This may take place over a single year, or even several years depending on the size of the job and the time and funds available.

The important thing is to be clear on the garden design as a whole. Once this is in place, you will have a much better idea of which step of the build is best tackled first. Having a completed design also helps you to see what your build and planting costs will be, so that these can be broken down into sensible chunks.

P.S. A garden is always evolving… and that is the great joy of it too!

+ Can you install the garden when the design is finished?

We can landscape your whole garden, including retaining walls, rockwork and fencing. We work together with local landscapers and earthworkers, with whom we have built strong relationships over the years. That way you get the best stoneworkers, carpenters and earth moving teams for your project.

As qualified horticulturists, our team at Living Senses takes care of soil preparation and planting. This ensures the plants have the best possible chance to survive and flourish.

+ Can I do some of the landscaping myself?

Yes, of course! We have many clients who are tradies or garden-enthusiasts and love to get their hands dirty. We love sharing our knowledge and helping you grow. You will be extra proud when it’s all done!

We are happy to be as little or as much involved in the landscaping process as you want. The design can even be altered around the capacity of your skillset. Planting and mulching are just some of the DYI options available.

+ Do you carry out garden maintenance?

Once we have landscaped your garden, we can offer garden maintenance. Our design team works closely with the garden maintenance team so they prune the plants in ways how your garden was invisioned for the future.

The maintenance team is available for a minium of 4 hours and can be booked in on a regular or occasional basis, depending on your needs. For clients whose gardens we’ve designed and constructed, we can also provide regular check-ups and seasonal consults.

Any regular garden maintenance activities for garden we haven't landscaped, we recommend contacting a local gardener. Depending on your area, we can recommend reliable businesses.

+ When is the best time to build a garden?

Gardens can be built at any time of the year in Victoria. Heavy rainfalls can slow down the process however, since rain and mud are landscaper’s worst enemies. Allow extra wait time if your project requires earthmoving machinery, especially in wet seasons.

Most planting is ideally done in the autumn, winter and early spring. This allows the plants and trees to establish before the main growing season in spring and summer. Cold winters and hot, dry summers should be avoided if possible.

+ I want a maintenance free, lush green garden. Can you design and build that?

Nowadays, many homeowners are looking for a low-maintenance garden that looks green and lush all year round. With the right plants and material choices we can certainly design and construct a garden like this for you. We have plenty of experience and suggestions to keep the maintenance requirements as little as possible.

+ How much will it cost to build my garden?

Much like design fees, each project is individual. Costs depend on a number of factors such as design complexity, slope and size of the land, site access, soil conditions (e.g. rocky ground) etc.

If you want to make a cost estimate based on the size of your space you could use these benchmark rates to give you an idea. They are based on a level garden with easy access.

• Simple residential garden with some hardscapes, but majority of softscapes might be around $125 - $150 per m2.
• Higher quality residential garden with hardscapes and softscapes might be around $275 - $325 per m2.
• Very custom spaces with complex detailing generally goes up from this price level

To save money, you may want to undertake some, or all, of the construction yourself. We also promote re-using/ upcycling materials and retaining plants and trees as much as possible to save on costs and landfill. Throughout the process, we inform you on cost effective material and design choices and can show ways to save money by propagating plants.

We are aware, gardens can be expensive. But besides offering major health benefits, they add significant value to your home. According to real estate agents and landscaping experts, landscaping can add up 28% percent to the value of your home. On the flip side, if you neglect your garden, it can lower the value of your home between 5 and 15%.

Contact us today for a free 30 min ‘Meet & Greet’ and obligation free quote to discuss your wishes.