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 (MSGD) has designed landscapes for over 20 years. His focus has always been to create simple, uncomplicated spaces that connect people to nature. He studied Geology at the University of Manchester, which developed his passion for wild, rugged landscapes, and he has sought to recreate that feeling of being outdoors in people’s private gardens.
Studying landform provided the perfect foundation for his career in garden design. He is a Registered Member of the Society of Garden Designers and sits on the Mid Sussex Design Review Panel, where he provides feedback on planning applications from a landscape perspective.
Between 2006 and 2013, he designed gardens at the Hampton Court and Chelsea Flower Shows, which provided a platform to experiment and create more conceptual outdoor spaces. More recently, he has been working with local community groups to improve parks, pockets, and corridors of green space within the city.
Locations Covered: Based in Brighton, we design landscapes for projects throughout the UK and internationally. Reach out via phone or email to discuss your project.
Design Style: Our design approach adapts to the architecture and setting of each unique project. We specialise in crafting simple, elegant spaces, incorporating natural materials such as stone, timber, rocks, gravel, and a rich diversity of plants.
How Much Does Landscape Design Cost? Our fees align with the Society of Garden Designers' guidelines, typically around 10% of the overall build cost. Design fees are divided into stages, detailed below, and most projects have a minimum build cost of £40,000.
Consulting work: £90/hour (ex. VAT)
Practical work: £50/hour (ex. VAT)
Initial Consultations: We offer either in-person garden visits or virtual consultations via Zoom to provide advice and a fee proposal tailored to your needs.
Standalone Planting Design: Sometimes, a garden can be transformed with a new planting scheme. You’re welcome to send photos of your project, and we’ll get back to you. Note that planting areas should be larger than 50m².
We also source and supply plants for your project, often at prices significantly below those of standard online retailers.
Planning Applications: We work closely with architects, arboriculturalists, lighting designers, ecologists, and transport consultants to develop thorough planning application packages.
For projects within the South Downs National Park, which often require a landscape-led approach, we collaborate with Landscape Visual to deliver Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments (LVIA).
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): New planning regulations require achieving a Biodiversity Net Gain. While this typically involves a specialist Ecologist, we provide data specifications to support this requirement, ensuring the project aligns with sustainable, visually appealing landscape solutions tailored to the site and client’s needs.