Our aim is to work with a light touch, finding the balance between order and the wild. We specialise in landscape and planting design for private gardens, commercial developments, and unique one-off new builds. With an ecologically and landscape-led approach, we ensure that our designs not only meet aesthetic and functional needs but also support planning applications and achieve Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).
Nicholas Dexter has been designing gardens for over 20 years and is based in Brighton.
His focus is on creating simple, uncluttered spaces that help people connect with nature. He studied geology at the University of Manchester, where he developed a passion for wild, rugged landscapes and the tranquility they offer. This background in landform provided an ideal foundation for his career in garden design. In 2005, he became a Registered Member of the Society of Garden Designers (MSGD), the industry's professional body.
From 2006 to 2013, he designed various gardens at the Hampton Court and Chelsea Flower Shows, which gave him the opportunity to experiment with and create more conceptual outdoor spaces.
Nicholas Dexter also serves on the Mid Sussex Design Review Panel, where he provides feedback on planning applications from a landscape perspective.
Locations Covered:
Based in Brighton, we design landscapes for projects across the UK and overseas. Feel free to call or email us to discuss your project.
Design Style:
Our design approach varies depending on the architecture and location of each project. We specialise in creating simple, elegant spaces using natural materials like stone, timber, rocks, gravel, and, of course, plants.
How Much Does Landscape Design Cost?
Our fees are based on the Society of Garden Designers' fee guidance calculator, typically around 10% of the overall build cost. The design fee is divided into stages, which are outlined below. Generally, projects have a minimum build cost of £40,000. However, we recommend contacting us if your budget is limited.
Initial Consultations:
We can either visit your garden or arrange a Zoom call to offer advice and provide a fee proposal.
Standalone Planting Design:
In some cases, gardens can be revitalised through re-planting. You are welcome to send us photos of your project, and we will get back to you. Please note that planting areas should be larger than 50m².
We source and supply plants for your landscape design project, often at prices significantly lower than those of typical online suppliers.
Planning Applications:
We collaborate closely with architects, arboriculturalists, exterior lighting designers, ecologists, and transport consultants to create comprehensive planning application packages.
Projects within the South Downs National Park (SDNP) typically require a landscape-led approach for new builds. In these instances, we partner with Landscape Visual to provide Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIA).
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG):
New planning regulations require achieving a Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). While this often requires appointing a specialist Ecologist, we can provide the necessary data specifications to support this process. This approach ensures the project is steered towards a sustainable landscape solution that is both visually appealing and aligned with the site's and client's needs.