Computer Aided Design - Creating Garden Design Plans & Visuals

Hand Drawn Plans versus Computer Aided Design
Many garden designers opt to create hand drawn design plans, which can be works of art in their own right. Although i do love to draw, I find that hand drawing, colouring and labelling plans can be very time consuming, especially if a mistake is made and its back to beginning again! 
I've always been technology savvy and I'm also pretty proficient with pen and paper too. Up until 2018 i had been combining my skills by hand drawing 2D concept designs and planting plans and then using CAD software to add the finishing touches - colouring in the plans and labelling them, i found  colour rendering and annotating on a pc the most efficient use of my time, with consistent neat results and easy alterations.
In January 2019 i progressed on to using 2D and 3D computer software for the whole design process, from initially creating a to-scale plan of the site through to the final concept design plans and 3D visualisations.​
​Why have i opted to go use CAD software? Well increasingly i've wanted to be able to offer my clients a really accurate to-scale representation of their garden...

design plan with accompanying 3D models to clearly show changes in levels, vertical features and allow the client to visualise the views around the garden from a human level rather than a birds-eye perspective. Using CAD software increases my productivity, improves the quality and accuracy of the designs and allows me to calculate material quantities, volume and square meterage of areas whilst generating setting out plans which landscapers can quote and build from.  It certainly ingratiates you with the landscapers when they don't have to sit for hours measuring off a hand drawn sketch and calculate the quantities in order to quote for the job!
On the odd occasion that an amendment to a plan is required, it can be a very quick process, there's no redrawing of plans by hand, it can be as simple as few clicks of the mouse and it’s done. 

What do clients think of the CAD design plans?
Wow is their usual reaction! Clearly presented plans, which are full of detail showing all of the elements included within the design. The 3D visualisations are really useful as they show how the vertical elements work within the space – particularly good for those clients who profess to struggle to visualise things. I’m also able to design and create 3D models of garden structures like pergolas, arches and arbours. Setting out plans show the crucial dimensions of pathways, patios, raised beds etc which a landscaper would need to realise the design on the ground. Clients are provided with 2D concept plans, a series of 3D visuals, setting out plans, scope of works with material quantities on paper initially which can then be provided and shared with landscapers digitally.

I'm really enjoying learning to use the new CAD software and the quality of my designs have improved. With happy clients too, i'm pleased i took the big step to go digital! ​

Bel Grierson

Expert Plantswoman and Garden Designer with 20 years experience in horticulture.  Bel loves to share her knowledge and enthusiasm with those with gardens large and small.