A site appraisal and analysis of existing conditions and features to ensure a well planned garden. Consider the following:
- Orientation, sun and shade, summer and winter sun, prevailing winds
- Topography and water run off
- Soil types, water holding capacity, compaction, water repellence, fertility levels
- Availability of accessible ground water
- Capacity to harvest water on site, rain water tanks, grey water systems, on site sewerage management
- Location of services
- Views into and out of the site
- Noise to block or enhance
- Existing features, structures and materials to remove or retain
- Overall area available for the garden
- Site assets and liabilities
To create functional and user-friendly garden spaces you must also consider practical and lifestyle requirements such as:
- Activities to be undertaken in the space and by whom
- Outdoor living spaces desired (barbecues, seating areas)
- Garden structures
- Shade structures
- Utility spaces (clothes drying, compost and storage areas)
- Special needs (vegetable garden, swimming pool etc)
- Aesthetic requirements
- Plant preference and design styles (native / exotic, formal / informal etc)
- How plants and structures can affect climate control within the home (light and shade)
- Materials preference
- Maintenance expectations
- Budget available