Leading Garden Designers creating Award Winning Landscapes
If you are considering embarking upon a garden design in Somerset then we would love to hear from you. Your first consultation is without obligation and will help you review your existing outdoor space before commissioning any new project.
We have particular expertise in coastal gardens and we also undertake public realm and commercial commissions.
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Our Local Studio
Matthew Childs Design is a multi-award-winning garden and landscape design studio with a practice in East Devon. Somerset is within easy reach and we are very happy to visit you to discuss your design ambitions.
Recognised as a top 50 UK garden designer by House & Garden, and recipient of multiple RHS Gold Medals and Society of Garden and Landscape Designers awards, our expert team offers a wealth of knowledge and creative vision to every project.
Meet the team here team here
Our Portfolio of Work
We create bespoke designs tailored to each client, reflecting the individuals who will use them and the unique character of their surroundings. Every garden is not only breathtakingly beautiful, but also an extension of the home and an enhancement to daily life.
Our work spans a diverse range of projects, from intimate courtyards and small gardens through to coastal havens, larger gardens, rural retreats and country estates.
Whether you desire a contemporary space, a historic-inspired landscape or a biodiverse, wildlife-friendly retreat, we provide creativity, innovation and meticulous attention to detail to every project.
We have recently designed a large garden for a family living in a newly built country home near Chard. Our brief was to create an extension of the home for family gatherings and entertaining. The client wanted multiple destinations within the garden, to include an expansive outdoor dining terrace, separate lounge seating areas and fire pit - all surrounded by planting with seasonal interest.
As part of the design process, we also addressed existing functional concerns by connecting the existing pool terrace to the front and rear gardens and level changes were addressed both practically and aesthetically by terracing. Hard landscaping materials such as flint walls, limestone setts and self binding gravels were specified to sit harmoniously with the house and local area.
This project is being phased over a few years, with an extension of the orchard and construction of a wildlife pond in the future.
See examples of our latest projects here
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Our Creative Approach
Our philosophy
Creating a garden should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all and ensuring a positive journey is paramount to the studio's approach.
Every client has a unique vision, and we pride ourselves in having an astute ability to listen and understand your specific needs and requirements. We are open and balanced in our approach, expressing our advice and opinion with clarity and honesty.
We work closely and collaboratively with specialist contractors to ensure the best possible results in terms of aesthetics and quality.
All projects are led and personally overseen by Matthew.
Expertise in Somerset’s unique location and conditions
We have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of Somerset’s unique location, heritage and environmental conditions. Our expert team will guide you seamlessly through the process of crafting an idyllic outdoor space in total harmony with its surroundings.
Sustainable and biodiverse designs
In response to an ever-changing climate, our outdoor spaces create connections with nature and enhance biodiversity. They are designed with the aim of creating thriving ecosystems to attract wildlife. Planting will comprise a mix of native and non-native species, including pollinator friendly and drought resistant varieties. Planting designs will ensure year-round interest with a cohesive mix of colours, shapes and textures to suit your desired aesthetic.
Consideration will also be given to the use of permeable and reclaimed hard landscaping materials where appropriate.
We have particular expertise in sustainable water management and natural water features, such as freshwater swimming pools.
Full-service design and project management
We provide a seamless end-to-end garden design service from initial concept development to final execution.
We will collaborate with you and carefully selected landscapers and craftsmen to bring your vision to life while ensuring the highest results in terms of aesthetics and quality.
The services we offer are detailed here
Your Questions Answered
The cost varies depending on the size, complexity and the materials used.
We provide tailored solutions for different budgets and offer an initial no obligation consultation to discuss your vision and requirements. The eventual cost will vary depending on the size, complexity and the materials used.
The timeframe depends on the scale and complexity of the project. A courtyard or small garden may take a few weeks, whilst a large country estate can take several months or may even be completed in phases over a few years.
We have extensive experience designing outdoor spaces for historic and listed buildings, and within world heritage sites, conservation areas and local areas of special character.
We will liaise with architects and specialist service providers such as planning consultants and arboricultural specialists to ensure our designs are carried out in accordance with all necessary approvals.
We focus on the design and collaborate with trusted landscapers and craftsmen to bring your project to life.We can also recommend trusted garden maintenance professionals to help care for your garden.
Wherever possible we will endeavour to retain mature trees and planting and integrate existing features into our designs.