Garden design and planting services
Zoe Kilbride is a Capel Manor trained garden designer based in Bishop's Stortford, offering bespoke garden design and planting design services for clients across Hertfordshire and Essex.
Whether you are planning a complete garden transformation or looking for expert guidance with planting, each project begins with a thoughtful design process tailored to the character of the space and the needs of the people who use it.
Explore the services below to find the right starting point for your garden project.
Is a garden design right for you?
Garden design is well suited to those looking to create a balanced, thoughtfully designed outdoor space from the outset.
It works particularly well if you are:
planning a complete garden transformation
unsure how to bring structure and planting together
looking for a clear design before starting landscaping
If you’re unsure where to begin, a design consultation is a simple way to explore ideas and understand what might be possible.
For those who would simply like professional ideas and guidance, a garden design consultation can be a valuable way to explore the possibilities for your space before committing to a full design.
A thoughtful approach to garden design
Each project begins with understanding the space as a whole, including its layout, proportions and relationship to the house.
Where planting forms part of the brief, it is integrated thoughtfully so that all elements work together to create a cohesive and long-lasting design.
Clients often come to me because:
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their garden feels underwhelming or disjointed
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they want clearer structure and better flow
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they want year-round interest and spaces to relax
I work with both new and existing gardens, tailoring each design to the space, setting and people using it.
Zoe took the time to listen to our ideas and preferences, and then provided valuable insights and recommendations, resulting in a design that exceeded my expectations.
Leanne H, Ongar
I am really delighted with my new garden, so skilfully designed by Zoe. I told her I had a deadline for the work to be done, and she made sure we met it. We and the wildlife really need these spaces, however small. Thank you, Zoe.
Heather B, Bishop's Stortford
I would recommend Zoe to anyone wanting great plant designs that are so well thought out. Thank you for your dedication, every time I walk outside, I just can’t help smiling with the beauty.
Emma F, Saffron Walden
Start your garden project with a garden design consultation
If you’re unsure where to begin, a garden design consultation in Hertfordshire and Essex is a relaxed way to explore the possibilities for your garden.
During the visit, we can discuss layout, planting, materials and how the space could evolve, helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.
The consultation is a standalone paid service, and many clients find it provides enough clarity to move forward with their garden. If you decide to proceed with a full garden design, the consultation fee is credited towards the design service.
Planting Design
Planting design across Hertfordshire and Essex, creating layered, naturalistic planting schemes that bring structure, softness and seasonal interest to your garden. Ideal for refreshing borders or transforming an existing space through thoughtful planting. Plant supply and placement can also be arranged.
Garden Design Consultation
A garden design consultation for clients in Hertfordshire and Essex, offering on-site advice to explore ideas for your garden. We can discuss layout, planting, materials and practical solutions, helping you clarify the possibilities and decide on the best next steps. A written summary can also be provided.
Recent garden design projects
Garden design, planting design and garden design consultations in Hertfordshire and Essex
I design gardens shaped by landscape, soil, architecture and the way each space is lived in, creating places that feel natural, balanced and connected to their setting.
From layout to planting, every detail is chosen to suit the character of the garden and the property around it.
If you’d like to discuss a garden design project, I’d love to hear from you.