The Challenge

Our client arrived at her new property facing both practical and emotional hurdles:

• A barren, neglected garden offering no comfort
• The need to create a personal sanctuary that reflected her new beginning
• Immediate desires:
  ✔ Space for outdoor dining (solitude & social connection)
  ✔ Safe play zone for her dog
  ✔ Warmth to welcome friends into this new chapter

Our Approach: Tier 1 – Vision & Phased Planning

1. Empathy-First Consultation

• On-site walkthrough focusing on how she wanted to feel in the space
• Identified quick wins vs. long-term projects aligned with upcoming house renovation

3. Strategic Roadmap

• Phase 1 (Now):
  • Herb ladder planter (instant greenery + culinary joy)
  • Temporary gravel seating area (low-cost, high-impact)
• Phase 2 (Post-House Work):
  • Raised border installation
  • Permanent dining nook with privacy screening

Even in its early stages, the garden will become a tool for healing:

• The herb ladder brings daily purpose (harvesting for meals)
• The dog’s play area creates routine and laughter
• A string-lit corner became her “coffee therapy zone” for friends

Client’s Words

“This isn’t just about plants – it’s the first place that’s felt like mine in years. Watching the herbs grow reminds me I can rebuild things too.”

Key Insights

✔ Gardens heal when designed for emotional needs first
✔ Phasing prevents overwhelm during life transitions
✔ Small, symbolic elements (like the herb ladder) anchor progress