How much does it cost to build a garden?
Honeysuckle (Lonicera) as a substitute for a tall fence: more atmosphere, less costs
How much does it cost to build a garden? That is often one of the first questions when you start working on your outdoor space. The answer isn’t straightforward, because every garden is custom-made. However, there are many choices that influence the overall cost. Thinking about budget may not be the most exciting part your dream garden, but it is an important one. I’ll take you through how we approach this together during the design process.
Choose your starting point
At the beginning of the design process for your garden, one of the first questions I ask is: what is your budget? I take this into account while designing, so we avoid ending up with a dream garden on paper that isn’t realistic to build. Do you find it difficult to determine your budget? Then we’ll carefully explore it together. I guide you through the different cost components and the choices you can make, so you get a clearer understanding of the flexibility we have.
Dream about your future garden
During the intake meeting, we discuss the current situation as well as all wishes and requirements for the garden. What is essential, and what is simply nice to have? This helps in making choices that fit your budget. Still unsure about certain aspects? This is the moment where I think along with you and help you understand the cost differences for your specific situation. When I then start designing your garden, I carefully balance your wishes and requirements until I can present a plan that fits both you and your budget.
Consider what you can and want to do yourself
You can choose to have your garden built by a professional landscaper, but you can also do part (or all) of it yourself. In that case, carefully consider your skills and how much time you have. Perhaps there are people in your network who can help you? Keep in mind that building a garden is skilled work, especially when it comes to groundwork, drainage, and paving. These elements are crucial for the long-term durability of your garden. Some tasks are easier to do yourself, such as removing old paving, clearing the garden, or buying garden elements and furniture.
Plan your timeline
If you want to spread the costs of building your garden, you can choose to implement it in phases. At the end of the design process, you will have a solid implementation plan in hand and can work towards it with confidence. By making intentional choices in your planning, you can combine tasks efficiently and start enjoying your garden sooner, even if it is not fully finished yet. I can also advise you on this.
A path made of wood chips gives a natural feel and is cheaper than hard materials such as paving or gravel
Request a quote
Would you like to outsource the construction of your garden to a landscaper? Then you can request a quote halfway through the design process. To give you a general idea: for a completely new, small garden, you can expect an investment starting from around €10,000. For larger gardens, this increases, although the price per m² decreases. I work with sustainable landscapers throughout the Netherlands. I know they deliver high-quality and reliable work. It is also possible to have your garden maintained by them if you prefer to outsource that as well. Of course, you can also choose to approach a landscaper yourself.
Choose an ecological garden
Planting is the most cost-effective element in a garden. If you choose fewer materials and more greenery, you can significantly reduce costs. In my garden designs, planting always plays the leading role. Of course, you want comfortable places to sit in your garden, but I avoid using more hard surfaces than necessary. I often reuse materials already present in your garden in a creative way. Sustainable choices for your garden don’t have to be expensive.
Save costs with a good garden design
A garden design only represents a small part of the total cost of your new garden, but it can save you a significant amount of money. If you start without a design, you don’t know what the final result will be. With a garden design, you know what to expect before you begin, reducing the risk of unexpected costs. In addition, I take into account the location, conditions, and soil type of your garden. This helps prevent surprises during construction. I also select plants suited to your soil, increasing the chance they will thrive and remain beautiful in the long term.
Curious about what’s possible in your garden and what budget it might require? Take a look at my services or send me an email for more information.