Why Planning Your Landscape Now Will Pay Off in Spring August 1, 2025

If you are considering a landscape makeover, the most important step you can take is to start with a well-thought-out design. A stunning landscape does not happen by accident, it begins with a clear plan. At Shape and Form, we specialise in residential landscape design in Melbourne, and we know that the earlier you start planning, the better your results will be.

This article explains how to prepare for working with a landscape designer, why winter is the best time to begin the design process, and what to expect when creating your ideal outdoor space.

Why Landscape Design Comes First

Many people think landscaping begins when construction starts, but the real magic happens long before then. A professional landscape design gives you a complete vision for your outdoor area. It ensures that your ideas are achievable, functional, and beautifully cohesive.

Whether you want a modern entertaining space, a low-maintenance garden (everyone wants this), or a rambling natural native garden, a detailed landscape plan will guide the project from start to finish. At Shape and Form, we design gardens that are tailored to your lifestyle, your home, and your long-term goals.

Without a solid design, it is easy to waste time and money on work that does not deliver the results you want. A well-prepared plan helps avoid mistakes and makes construction more efficient cost effective and most importantly as stress free as possible.

Why Winter Is the Best Time to Start Your Garden Design

If you are looking to upgrade your garden in Melbourne, winter is actually the best time to engage a landscape designer. Why? Because the design and planning process takes time. By starting now, you will have everything in place to begin construction in spring (don’t underestimate the length of the permit process) right when the weather turns and gardens start to thrive.

Waiting until spring to start designing puts you behind the rush. Suppliers get busy, builders are booked out, and council approvals take longer. By starting in winter, you get ahead of the curve. You also allow time to explore creative ideas, finalise your budget, and make confident decisions without pressure.

How to Prepare for Working With a Landscape Designer

Before you engage a landscape designer, it helps to think about how you use your outdoor space. You do not need to know the names of plants or specific materials, just be ready to talk about what matters to you.

Here are a few key questions to consider:

How do you want to use your garden? (Relaxation, entertaining, play, growing food, all of the above)
What do you like and dislike about your current space?
Do you need privacy, shade, or better access?
Are there any styles or themes you are drawn to?
What is your estimated budget for the full project?

Bringing photos, inspiration, and any property plans you have will also help your designer better understand your site and vision.

Be Open to New Possibilities

A great Melbourne landscape designer will not just follow a checklist, they will look at your space with fresh eyes and propose ideas you may not have considered. That could include changing the orientation of a deck to get more sun, integrating clever storage solutions, or introducing a planting palette that works better for your soil and climate.

This collaboration is one of the most valuable parts of working with a professional. At Shape and Form, we blend creativity with practicality to deliver garden designs that are not just beautiful, but genuinely liveable.

A Good Design Considers Every Element

A strong landscape design is about more than choosing plants or paving. It should include site levels, drainage, lighting, materials, outdoor structures, and how all elements connect with your home and each other.

At Shape and Form, we take a holistic approach. We consider long-term maintenance, water use, sustainability, and how the space will change as plants grow. Our goal is to create timeless landscapes that evolve beautifully and feel right from the moment they are installed.

Why Design and Construction Should Work Together

One of the biggest challenges in outdoor renovation is the handover between design and construction. When your design is not aligned with real-world conditions or construction requirements, you can run into cost blowouts or delays.

That is why we offer both landscape design and construction in Melbourne and The Mornington Peninsula, managing the entire process from concept to completion. This ensures your design is buildable, your budget stays on track, and the final result reflects your original vision.

Our integrated approach simplifies the experience for homeowners. You work with one expert team who understands your project inside and out, and who is committed to delivering an outstanding result.

Create a Garden That Grows With You

At Shape and Form, we believe in creating outdoor spaces that add real value to your home and lifestyle. Whether you are building a new garden from scratch or refreshing an outdated space, starting with a smart landscape design makes all the difference.

If you are ready to begin your outdoor renovation, now is the perfect time. Winter is ideal for planning, and with the right design in place, you can start construction in spring and enjoy your new garden for years to come.

Book your free Zoom call with Shape and Form today, and let us help you bring your dream garden to life.