Green Gecko Studios Design Process

The Design Process

Green Gecko Studios offers design services for all types of gardens: from courtyards to large gardens or public spaces. Currently, Monina Gilbey is the sole garden designer for Green Gecko Studios.

Green Gecko Studios offers different levels of design services. You can choose from:

a garden refresh, where I can order and replace plants which are not performing

a garden advice service, where I can assist with ideas for your garden

or a full design service. See below for further information on the design service.

The design process for a design for your garden is undertaken in three stages. Green Gecko Studios is happy to assist with your needs, for one stage or three.

Stage 1 – Initial consultation

Monina will meet with you at your house (or the site) to discuss your needs. An initial consultation usually takes about one to two hours. Monina will discuss your needs and speak with you about her ideas for your space. The minimum fee for this stage is $180*. This fee is payable during the appointment. Payment can be made by cash, cheque or direct debit. A receipt will be issued once funds are cleared.

If you decide to continue to the next stage, Green Gecko Studios will send you a letter of engagement which will detail the next step and confirm approximate pricing for the next stage.

Stage 2 - Concept plans

I will need a scaled plan of your garden to commence this stage. For small gardens or courtyards, I can usually measure your garden. Otherwise, you may need to engage a surveyor to take measurements of your garden – at your cost.

At least two concept plans will be developed and presented to you and your family. These concept plans will:

not be drawn to scale
show structures in the garden e.g. pergola, shed etc
indicate where plants will be placed
be coloured and laminated.

A letter detailing the ideas of the design will also be given to you.

The minimum fee for this stage is $450*.

If you decide that the concepts are sufficient for you to complete the garden, a list of suggested plants can be developed to help you install the garden yourself. There will be a charge for the plant list.

Stage 3 – Developed design

After discussing with you your preferred concept and any changes, a final concept will be presented to you. Once you have approved the final concept, a developed design will be drafted. The developed design, which will be presented to you on completion, will:

be drawn to scale
show placement of structures in the garden
indicate specific plants (genus and species)
be coloured and laminated.

The minimum fee for this stage is $650*.

Installation of the garden

Green Gecko Studios does not have a landscaping service. You will need to speak to a landscaper to discuss your needs. Green Gecko Studios can provide a list of landscaping services.

* Prices may vary according to the size of the garden and/or the amount of planting or structures needed.