Your questions answered on engaging a landscape architect

What do people often not know about creating great outdoor spaces?

The connections to and from these spaces are just as important as the space itself.

What is your top tip for homeowners when they decide to engage a landscape designer?

Make a hierarchical list of the key objectives. Is it more usable space? Is it a certain aesthetic? A pool? Write it all down and include all your wishlist items. Think big, then refine.

What's the most common mistake you see people make when it comes to landscaping?

Not investing the time and money in good quality well thought-out designs. This is on par with not using good quality materials. I know not everyone has a big budget but you are much better off to to do less at higher quality than more at lower. You can always find a sweet spot. 

When choosing landscaping how can you elevate it to the next level?

X-factor design detailing, often less is more. Like a good Italian pizza ;)

How can homeowners make the most out of their landscape expert? What should they ask you?

Have some images of stuff they like, or a well thought out list of what they want to achieve with their landscape.

What I do for work described in one sentence:

If it's any part of landscaping I probably do it. Lucky that I love my job!

My favourite coffee house/restaurant is:

Generally any place with Allpress or Supreme.

What's your morning routine?

Get up nice and early. I get my three girls fed and dressed, a coffee for me and a tea for my wife, then I'm out the door.

On my wish list is:

More European and Scandinavian travel.

The design/building/person/item that inspires me is:

I find being in nature invigorating and inspiring, however, if there could only be one person it would have to be my whole family – father and brothers are all immersed in the industry, and a wife and mum that both love gardening.

My secret talent is:

If you know me I don't keep much a secret, I'm a real chatterbox!

My favourite spot at my house is:

I've got a French inspired courtyard that I love. Although, I have landscaped almost every square inch of our section over the last 10 years so I have lots of favourites.

I recently discovered:

I'm not as young as I thought I was!