About Carolyn Marks Garden Design
My Philosophy
My aim is to create gardens that entice people outside, that they want to be in, are proud of and can smile and relax in.
I want to share my enthusiasm and enjoyment for gorgeous gardens and to enable everyone to make the most of and enjoy the outdoor spaces they have, big or small.
I want the process of having your garden designed to be enjoyable, friendly, exciting and achievable. I believe good garden design can be available to even those who didn't think they'd ever instruct a garden designer.
Gardens aren't instant. They take time to grow, develop and mature. Many of my projects reflect this and I'm happy to work with clients over many years, chipping away at the design and developing their gardens as time and money becomes available.
I believe gardens make you happy.
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My Expertise
I've been designing gardens for over 20 years and have helped create lush tiny courtyards, modern family gardens, organic flowing barn conversion exteriors, and everything in between.
I don't have a particular style, preferring each design to reflect its individual house and settings, together with the unique wishes and requirements of the client.
I have extensive knowledge of hard landscaping materials and trends, keeping an eye on what's popular on social media, but will always be mindful of creating gardens that will withstand the test of time.
There are many components in creating an exceptional garden and I can guarantee that I'll introduce something that you won't have thought of; a pretty secluded spot to sit, a simple BBQ area, an attractive outdoor sink area, a beautiful log store, a dog wash zone, running water in a pebble rill, or even a natural swimming pool.
But I didn't start out as a designer. After graduating in Mathematics from Bristol Uni and an initial career in computing, I retrained professionally in garden design to realise my lifelong interest and enthusiasm for gardens.
My Planting Skills
I believe that it really is the plants that make a garden and I aim to help every client embrace the beauty of greenery and flowers.
My extensive knowledge of planting combinations ensures every garden I help design has a wow factor planting scheme.
I specialise in naturalistic planting styles, whilst ensuring there's always something of beauty whatever the season.
I select a restrained colour palette with the client and develop this into stunning borders that change subtly throughout the year. I use contrasting flower and leaf shapes and incorporate scented flowers near entrances, terraces and pathways and structural evergreens to lead the eye.
And once the planting's done I'll ensure that every client is confident on how to maintain their new garden.