Foundation in Garden Planning
8 weeks · Self-paced with weekly milestones
This course establishes the analytical framework all garden design requires. You'll learn to read a site systematically: assessing drainage patterns, identifying microclimates, testing soil structure, and mapping sun exposure through seasons.
Core Topics
- Site survey techniques and documentation methods
- Soil science fundamentals and amendment strategies
- Climate zone implications for plant selection
- Seasonal planning and succession planting principles
- Basic design concepts: scale, proportion, balance
By completion, you'll produce a comprehensive site analysis and preliminary design for a case study garden.
Advanced Landscape Architecture
12 weeks · Includes live critique sessions
For students with design experience seeking deeper technical knowledge. Explores complex spatial relationships, structural elements, and integration of hard landscaping with planting schemes.
Core Topics
- Three-dimensional spatial design and level changes
- Hardscape materials: selection, specification, detailing
- Water feature design and hydraulic considerations
- Structural planting: hedges, screening, architectural specimens
- Lighting design for nocturnal garden use
- CAD software introduction for landscape designers
Final project involves complete design development for a challenging site with significant constraints.
Perennial Border Design
6 weeks · Plant identification intensive
Master the art of herbaceous border composition. Study how colour, texture, form, and flowering sequence create dynamic plantings that perform from spring through autumn.
Core Topics
- Colour theory application in planting design
- Textural contrast and foliage as design element
- Height layering and sightline management
- Succession planting for extended interest
- Perennial selection for UK climate zones
- Maintenance scheduling and border renovation
You'll create a planting plan for a 20-metre border with full species specifications and maintenance calendar.
Sustainable Garden Systems
10 weeks · Ecology-focused curriculum
Explore how gardens can function as ecological assets. Learn design strategies that reduce resource inputs, support biodiversity, and create resilient planted landscapes.
Core Topics
- Native plant communities and naturalistic planting
- Wildlife corridor design and habitat creation
- Water conservation: rainwater harvesting and greywater systems
- Soil health and organic matter management
- Low-input maintenance strategies
- Climate adaptation in garden design
Final assignment requires designing a demonstration garden that models sustainable principles for a specific site type.
Urban Space Design
7 weeks · Small-space specialisation
City gardens present unique challenges: limited area, challenging microclimates, access constraints, and high visibility. This course teaches techniques specific to urban contexts.
Core Topics
- Vertical gardening systems and living walls
- Container selection and growing media optimisation
- Rooftop and balcony structural considerations
- Wind and pollution-tolerant plant selection
- Creating privacy in overlooked spaces
- Maximising perceived space through design illusion
Projects include courtyard redesign and rooftop terrace planting scheme with full technical specifications.
Professional Practice for Designers
5 weeks · Business skills focus
Design ability alone doesn't ensure successful practice. Learn the business disciplines that separate established professionals from struggling freelancers.
Core Topics
- Client consultation: listening, questioning, expectation management
- Project pricing models and profitable fee structures
- Contract essentials and liability protection
- Portfolio development and case study documentation
- Marketing strategies for garden design services
- Working with contractors and managing installations
You'll develop a complete client onboarding system including contract templates and pricing calculator.
