A landscape designer plans and designs outdoor spaces including gardens, courtyards, public realm, parks, commercial grounds and urban open spaces. The title is not protected in the UK, but the Landscape Institute (LI) provides a chartered route - Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI) - who may also use the protected title 'Landscape Architect'. Landscape designers combine knowledge of horticulture, ecology, hard landscaping materials, drainage, levels and spatial design to create functional, sustainable and visually resolved outdoor environments. For residential projects they typically produce concept designs, planting plans, materials schedules and contractor briefs. On larger or commercial projects they may also prepare landscape management plans, ecological surveys and planning landscape assessments.
What they do
- Site survey and analysis of existing conditions, levels and drainage
- Concept design and mood board development
- Detailed planting plans with species, quantities and layout
- Hard landscaping design - paving, walls, steps, water features and structures
- Materials specification and contractor brief preparation
- Landscape management and maintenance plans
- Landscape and visual impact assessments for planning applications
- Coordination with ecologists, arboriculturalists and drainage engineers
When you need one
A landscape designer is most valuable when you want a professionally designed outdoor space that functions well year-round - or when a landscape element is required as part of a planning application.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Basic consultation and planting plan | £500 - £1,500 |
| Full residential garden design | £2,000 - £8,000 |
| Landscape condition/planning submission | £1,500 - £5,000 |
| Commercial grounds design | £3,000 - £15,000+ |
| Landscape and visual impact assessment | £2,500 - £8,000 |
| Hourly rate | £60 - £120 / hr |
Fees are for design services only and do not include the cost of construction, planting or materials. Always clarify whether the fee covers contractor briefing, site visits during works and post-completion plant management.
Qualifications to look for
The highest landscape design qualification in the UK. CMLI requires an LI-accredited degree, at least two years of post-qualification experience, a professional practice assessment and a commitment to CPD. Members may use the protected title 'Landscape Architect'. Verify membership at landscapeinstitute.org.
Associate membership is for those working towards Chartered status. Appropriate for residential garden design and less complex projects. For planning submissions or complex landscape assessments, CMLI is preferred.
Professional body specifically for residential garden designers. Registered Member status (MSGD) requires a qualifying design qualification and experience review. A good quality indicator for domestic garden design commissions.
How to find a reputable landscape designer
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a landscape designer and a landscape architect?
In the UK, 'landscape architect' is a protected title and can only be used by Chartered Members of the Landscape Institute (CMLI). 'Landscape designer' is an unprotected title that can be used by anyone. In practice, both terms describe professionals designing outdoor spaces but a Chartered Landscape Architect (CMLI) has completed an accredited degree and passed a professional assessment. For complex or large-scale projects, or where landscape plays a key role in a planning application, a CMLI adds a higher level of accountability.
Do I need a landscape designer for a planning application?
For most domestic garden projects, a planning application for landscaping is not required unless you live in a conservation area, own a listed building, or the work involves structures such as large walls, outbuildings or significant changes to ground levels. Where a landscape plan is required as part of a planning submission - for example for a new development or an extension that affects trees covered by a Tree Preservation Order - a qualified landscape professional can prepare the necessary documents.
How much does it cost to design a garden in the UK?
A basic garden design consultation with mood board and planting plan typically costs £500 to £2,000 depending on garden size and designer experience. A full design service including measured survey, concept design, detailed plans, materials schedule and contractor brief costs £2,000 to £8,000 for a typical residential garden. High-end or large gardens with complex hard landscaping, water features or significant planting can cost considerably more. Costs are separate from - and additional to - the construction works themselves.