Our Approach

A modern outdoor family garden design in Cheltenham with a hot tub and relaxed dining area, trees and contemporary naturalistic planting design

A refined modern garden is grounded in the belief that outdoor spaces should feel both elevated and effortlessly livable. This philosophy unites architectural clarity with organic softness, shaping environments designed to bring joy and enhance everyday life.

Architectural Softness

We believe the most enjoyable and memorable outdoor spaces exist in the balance between structure and nature.

By pairing purposeful lines and spatial flow with fluid, movement-filled planting schemes, we create spaces that feel grounded yet alive.

Curated Outdoor Living

We approach landscape design with the same rigor, detail, and sophistication as interior architecture.

From custom garden kitchens to bespoke lighting and curated furniture layouts, every element is selected to ensure your garden functions as a seamless, high-design extension of your indoor living space.

Close-up of purple wildflowers in the Cotswolds with green stems and leaves in a garden setting with a naturalistic planting design.

ABOUT US

Elle retrained in garden design, graduating with distinction from the prestigious London College of Garden Design. Today, based in the Cotswolds, she leads her practice alongside tutoring the next generation of designers at LCGD and founding RAY Horticultural Renders, bringing a rare synthesis of analytical rigour, construction expertise, and creative excellence to every project.

Elle’s projects focus on naturalistic planting schemes balanced with clean architectural structure. Recognised with top honours at the 2026 RHS Badminton Flower Show, including an RHS Gold Medal, Best Construction Award, and People’s Choice Award for her show garden created in collaboration with Artisan Landscapes her studio creates immersive, tailored outdoor spaces that feel both effortless and deeply intentional.

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A modern outdoor garden design in Cheltenham with a limestone stone path, lush green trees and contemporary naturalistic planting design

A visualisation of a family garden in Woodmancote, near Cheltenham, showing layout, planting and outdoor living areas.

Grounded in the belief that outdoor spaces should feel both elevated and effortlessly liveable.

our philosophy unites architectural clarity with organic softness.

We craft gardens that embrace considered simplicity, where every line, material, and planting choice is intentional, resulting in spaces that are calm, composed, and deeply connected to how you live.

The garden design process

Purple and white wildflowers surrounded by green leaves and ferns in a garden.

A garden design project should feel exciting rather than overwhelming.

Elle's process provides a clear framework while allowing each project to develop in response to the site and the client's needs.

01 - Initial consultation

The process begins with a conversation about your property, your garden, how you use the space and what you would like to achieve.

02 - Concept design

The ideas are developed into an overall design, establishing the structure, flow and character of the garden.

03 - Detailed design

The approved concept is developed into the drawings and information required to bring the garden into reality.

04 - Planting & construction

Planting plans and specifications are developed alongside construction support, helping to ensure the finished garden reflects the original design.

Find out more about the garden design process
Find out more about the garden design process

  • Phase One: Concept Design

    We begin the design process with a comprehensive site survey and analysis to fully understand the unique characteristics of your space.

    Together, we will establish a project brief tailored to your lifestyle, identifying what currently works, what needs thoughtful refinement, and where creative solutions can unlock the full potential of your garden.

    With this foundational groundwork set, we translate this vision into detailed layout plans, curated mood boards, material palettes, and illustrative 3D visualisations. Through collaborative review, we fine-tune every detail to ensure the design will work for you and your home.

    This phase offers absolute clarity, ensuring you can clearly visualise the transformation of your outdoor space through an inspiring, guided process.

  • Phase Two: Detailed Design and Drawings

    Building on the Concept phase, this stage is designed for clients ready to move from vision to reality.

    We develop a comprehensive technical package of plans and drawings to guide the accurate construction of your garden.

    This phase encompasses detailed setting-out plans, levels, drainage, and lighting layouts, alongside specific construction details.

    Together, these drawings provide all the precise information required for a clear, competitive tendering process with trusted contractors, serving as the definitive blueprint to realise your garden with confidence.

  • Phase Three: Custom Planting Plans

    In this third phase, we turn our attention to the planting scheme.

    We curate a bespoke selection of species tailored specifically to your garden’s soil conditions, aspect, and light levels, while taking your preferred style and maintenance approach into careful consideration.

    Using a combination of mood boards and detailed planting plans, we help you visualise the textures, palettes, and seasonal interest that will define your outdoor space.

    We give careful thought to seasonality, structure, and layering to create a rich, immersive atmosphere that transforms and transitions beautifully throughout the year.

  • PHASE FOUR: POST-DESIGN SUPPORT

    Our commitment to your project often extends well beyond the design phase.

    We can offer full project monitoring during the construction phase to ensure every element is executed with exact precision. A combination of weekly or bi-monthly site visits to meet with project stakeholders can be arranged to support the installation and achieve the best project outcomes.

    We also provide bespoke maintenance plans to safeguard the long-term health and beauty of your garden. We remain available for periodic ongoing consultations and reviews as you wish, helping your outdoor space flourish and mature seamlessly over time.

FAQs

What sort of projects do you take on?

We take on a wide range of project sizes. Typically, though not exclusively, our portfolio includes:

  • Small gardens and courtyards

  • Roof terraces

  • Medium and suburban landscapes

  • Front gardens and driveways

  • Large gardens and rural landscapes

Where we work?

We our based in the Cotswolds, but our services extend far beyond. We regularly work with clients throughout the entire UK and overseas.

How long will take to design my garden?

You can generally expect the design process to take 4 to 10 weeks. This timeline may adjust depending on your availability for meetings, the decision-making process, and any necessary planning permissions.

What is the design studio's lead time?

We are currently booking new commissions to begin in two to three weeks.

What level of investment should I expect?

We believe in complete transparency so you can plan your project with confidence. Our design packages begin at £2,100. As we specialise in fully realised, high-finish landscapes our clients typically invest upwards of £30,000 for the complete construction of their bespoke garden.