Creating Gardens That Tell Your Story
Every great garden begins with a vision. At David Claude Landscape Design, we believe that thoughtful design is the foundation of every successful outdoor space. Our landscape design service transforms your ideas, aspirations, and lifestyle needs into comprehensive plans that guide the creation of your perfect garden.
With over 30 years of experience designing gardens across Melbourne’s diverse suburbs, we bring deep knowledge of local conditions, materials, and plants to every project. Whether you have a challenging steep block in Eltham or a courtyard in Ivanhoe, our designs are tailored to your specific site and circumstances.
Our Design Process
Initial Consultation
We begin with an on-site visit to understand your property’s unique characteristics. We assess soil conditions, sun exposure, existing vegetation, drainage patterns, and architectural context. Equally important, we listen to your vision—how you want to use your outdoor space, your aesthetic preferences, and your practical requirements.
Concept Development
Drawing on our site analysis and your brief, we develop concept plans that explore different spatial arrangements and design approaches. These initial sketches help you visualise possibilities and provide a framework for discussion and refinement.
Detailed Design
Once the concept direction is agreed, we develop detailed plans including:
- Master Plan: A comprehensive overview of the entire landscape design
- Planting Plans: Species selection, placement, and quantities suited to Melbourne’s climate
- Hard Landscape Plans: Paving patterns, retaining walls, and structural elements
- Sections and Elevations: Detailed views showing level changes and vertical relationships
Construction Documentation
For projects requiring council approval or precise contractor specifications, we prepare construction documentation including:
- Detailed drawings with dimensions and materials specifications
- Drainage and irrigation layouts
- Lighting plans
- Structural engineering coordination where required
What Sets Our Design Apart
Site-Specific Solutions
We don’t apply templates or generic solutions. Every design responds to the unique combination of your site’s topography, microclimate, soil conditions, and architectural context. This ensures gardens that feel natural and inevitable, as though they’ve always belonged.
Sustainable Design Principles
Our designs prioritise water efficiency, appropriate plant selection, and sustainable materials. We focus on drought-tolerant species suited to Melbourne’s variable climate, reducing ongoing maintenance requirements and environmental impact.
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection
Great landscape design extends your living space. We consider sightlines from key windows, flow from indoor rooms to outdoor areas, and the creation of distinct outdoor rooms for different activities.
Long-Term Vision
Gardens evolve over time. We design with maturity in mind, selecting plants that will develop character and presence as they grow. Our designs anticipate future needs and allow for the garden to become more beautiful with each passing year.
Design Services for Every Need
Full Landscape Design
Comprehensive design services for complete garden transformations, from initial consultation through to construction-ready documentation.
Concept Design Only
For clients who want professional design guidance but prefer to manage implementation themselves, we offer standalone concept design packages.
Design and Build
Our preferred approach combines design with construction management, ensuring design intent is maintained throughout the build process and providing you with a single point of responsibility.
Garden Refresh
For established gardens that need revitalisation, we offer design services focused on specific areas or elements without complete reconstruction.
Investment in Design
Professional landscape design represents a modest investment relative to construction costs, yet it delivers significant value. For detailed pricing insights, see our guide on landscape design costs in Melbourne, or if you’re weighing your options, read about DIY vs professional landscape design.
- Clarity of Vision: A detailed design eliminates guesswork and costly changes during construction
- Accurate Costing: Comprehensive plans allow accurate quotations from contractors
- Council Compliance: Professional documentation streamlines approval processes
- Long-Term Satisfaction: Considered design ensures your garden meets your needs for years to come
Contact us to discuss your project and learn how our landscape design services can transform your outdoor space into something extraordinary.
