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For you and the wild things
Me in a nutshell
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I'm Carol, owner of Wild at Heart.
As a designer and gardener, I am passionate about transforming our precious outdoor spaces and how we view them. My gardens are an extension of my clients' personalities and lives. I aim to create for them a greater connection to nature, through re-wilding, sensitive planting and attention to detail.
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In essence, I design gardens to be special places. Beautiful havens in which to relax, share good times and live alongside abundant wildlife.
I design gardens that give a room a view and entice you out, serving their multi-purpose functions without compromising their essential
role as places of refuge.
A well-designed garden is an investment in our well-being and happiness, as well as our property’s value. It can encourage us to use our beneficial spare time more effectively, doing the things we really enjoy, and creating a perfect means of escape!
I design gardens of many sizes, from small town gardens to larger grounds. I believe the success of a thriving garden relies upon creative design, landscaping and planting that is sympathetic to its setting, the time available for maintenance, and our changing climate. Sensitivity to ecosystems and sustainable living has always been important to me, which is why these principles are at the centre of Wild at Heart Garden Design.
1. At this first stage I take time getting to know the site, as well as my clients' dreams and practical requirements for their garden. I also measure up, take soil samples and photographs from multiple aspects for design reference.
Site visit & consultation
2. After my first client meeting I draw up a project brief, detailing aims and objectives, and once signed off I produce mood boards, and design an initial scale drawing. I present these to my client on site for discussion and fine tuning.
Initial scale drawing
3. When all amendments have been agreed I work up a final scale plan for the garden build, including information for any hard landscaping, garden buildings and services.
Completed plan
4. Once a schedule has been mapped out, construction can begin. I usually work with Burgate Landscaping for this part of the process, but I am also happy to work with my clients' choice of landscaper.
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Garden build liaison
5. During the garden build phase I draw up a planting plan for my clients' approval. I source all planting as seasons allow, and generally plant everything myself. Machinery on site is helpful for mature specimen trees and shrubs.
Planting plan & planting
6. Depending on my clients' preference I can arrange seasonal visits as the garden grows. I provide practical support, including help with refinements and additional planting as the natural
space evolves.
Maintenance
How I work ...