Landscaping & Garden Design Experts in East Kilbride

Briarlea Landscapes, one of Scotland’s leading independent landscape and garden design companies, specialises in transforming outdoor spaces throughout East Kilbride and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for artificial grass installation, decking, driveways, patios, paving, walling, or complete landscape design, we provide a wide range of services to elevate your outdoor living space. Since our establishment in 1998, we have been proudly serving the local community for over 20 years, completing countless projects and earning the trust of our loyal clients.

Our experienced design team offers free consultations to bring your vision to reality, crafting tailored solutions that align with your needs and go beyond expectations. With a commitment to exceptional quality and meticulous attention to detail, we deliver outstanding results that reflect your unique style.

Briarlea also have a landscaping and garden supplies business where you’ll find everything you need for your garden. Our new Display Centre, pictured above, is just a few miles from East Kilbride where you’ll be made very welcome by our experienced team.

Call 01555 861200 to find out more. If you live in any of the following areas we are happy to provide a free design consultation: Calderwood, Greenhills, St. Leonards, The Murray, Westwood, Gardenhall, Hairmyres, Lindsayfield, Nerston, Stewartfield, College Milton, East Mains, Kirktonholme, Whitehills and also newer areas like Jackton, Jackton Steadings, Benthall Farm, Lindsayfield , Nerston Village, Redwood Crescent and Laighhills.

We look forward to meeting you soon.

East Kilbride project

Our Landscaping Services

Briarlea's Landscape Designers

Craig Holland

Craig is very much a lover of outdoor spaces and has been so since a very young age.

He attended Strathclyde University to further his passion of garden design and got a degree in Landscape Management and Horticulture.

His designs are very much of the “Contemporary” vibe with cutting edge ideas and sharp clean lines.  The more Simple but Modern look.

David Gemmel

David came to Briarlea from an installation background having been a Landscape installer himself since leaving school and was also an installer for Briarlea for a long period of time.
 
David decided to pursue his love for landscaping and has now been designing for Briarlea for the last 8 years.
 
David likes to give our customers designs which compliment the quality and character of your space and budget requirements and can design pretty much anything that is asked of him.

Andrew Cummings

Andrew is the director of Briarlea and has a number of landscape credentials in his bag. He set the business up 20 plus years ago as a young boy who had a love for plants and design. From a one man van, Andrew has built up the brand that you love and know as Briarlea through sheer hardwork and attention to detail that makes Briarlea the leading Domestic Landscape Business there is on the market today.

Andrew prides himself in his designs and would be best to say he is more the “Traditional” designer. He prefers to simplify designs which in turn are sympathetic to their surroundings.

Choosing a Landscape Design Company

Selecting the right landscape designer can transform your outdoor space into a functional and beautiful area tailored to your lifestyle. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to decide who to trust with your project. Here are some key considerations to guide you in choosing the best landscape designer for your needs:


1. Define Your Goals and Budget

Before reaching out to a landscape designer, clarify your vision and objectives for your outdoor space. Consider what elements are most important to you, such as:

  • Aesthetic appeal (e.g., modern, rustic, or traditional design)
  • Practical features (e.g., patios, driveways, or outdoor kitchens)
  • Sustainability (e.g., native plants, water-efficient irrigation systems)

Additionally, establish a realistic budget for the project. Having a clear understanding of your financial limitations will help narrow down your options and ensure that your designer can deliver within your price range.


2. Check Qualifications and Experience

When evaluating potential designers, review their qualifications and experience. Look for:

  • Professional certifications, such as membership in the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) or the Society of Garden Designers (SGD).
  • Years of experience in the industry.
  • A portfolio of completed projects that aligns with your design preferences.

Experienced designers are more likely to handle unexpected challenges effectively and deliver high-quality results.


3. Review Portfolio and Style

Every landscape designer has a unique style. Spend time reviewing their portfolio to see if their previous work aligns with your vision. Look for:

  • Consistency in quality and attention to detail.
  • Variety in design styles, showcasing versatility.
  • Projects similar to your desired outcome (e.g., urban gardens, large estates, or family-friendly spaces).

A designer whose style resonates with your vision will make the process smoother and ensure a cohesive final result.


4. Ask for References and Testimonials

Feedback from past clients can provide valuable insights into the designer’s professionalism, reliability, and ability to deliver on promises. Don’t hesitate to:

  • Request references from previous clients.
  • Read online reviews and testimonials on platforms like Google, Trustpilot, or Houzz.
  • Ask about the designer’s ability to stay within budget and deadlines.

Satisfied clients are often a reliable indicator of a trustworthy professional.


5. Evaluate Communication Skills

Good communication is essential for a successful landscaping project. During your initial interactions, assess how well the designer:

  • Listens to your ideas and concerns.
  • Explains their design process and timelines.
  • Provides clear, transparent pricing and documentation.

A designer who communicates effectively will ensure that your vision is understood and executed as intended.


6. Consider Sustainability Practices

If sustainability is important to you, inquire about the designer’s eco-friendly practices. This could include:

  • Using locally sourced materials.
  • Implementing water-efficient irrigation systems.
  • Choosing native plants that thrive in your local climate and require minimal maintenance.

Designers who prioritize sustainability can help create an environmentally conscious outdoor space.


7. Understand Their Process

Every designer follows a slightly different process, so it’s important to understand what to expect. Ask about:

  • Initial consultation and site assessment.
  • Design development, including sketches, 3D models, or mood boards.
  • Timeline for completion.
  • Coordination with contractors and suppliers.

Understanding their workflow will help set expectations and ensure a smooth experience.


8. Compare Quotes

Request detailed quotes from multiple designers to compare their pricing and services. Ensure that the quote includes:

  • Design fees.
  • Material costs.
  • Labor and installation fees.

While affordability is important, don’t base your decision solely on cost. A lower price might compromise the quality of materials or craftsmanship.


9. Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, choose a designer who makes you feel confident and comfortable. Trust your instincts when assessing their personality, professionalism, and enthusiasm for your project.


Final Thoughts

Finding the right landscape designer requires careful consideration, but the effort is well worth it. By taking the time to evaluate their qualifications, style, communication skills, and sustainability practices, you can ensure a successful collaboration and create an outdoor space that brings your vision to life.

When choosing a landscape designer, it’s important to find a company that stands out in every key aspect. At Briarlea Landscapes, we pride ourselves on being Scotland’s largest independent landscape and garden design company. With over 25 years of experience, we bring unparalleled expertise and dedication to every project we undertake.

Our team includes three highly skilled and experienced landscape designers, ensuring that every design is both innovative and tailored to meet our clients’ specific needs. We offer free quotations, providing transparency and giving you the opportunity to explore your options without any obligation. Our work is backed by guarantees, giving you peace of mind in the quality and longevity of our services.

In addition to being competitively priced, we’ve earned the trust of countless satisfied customers, as reflected in our many glowing Google reviews. For those seeking inspiration, our state-of-the-art display centre just outside Larkhall offers a hands-on experience where you can get expert advice and explore a wide variety of garden products and structures.

By choosing Briarlea Landscapes, you’re selecting a company with a proven track record, a commitment to excellence, and the resources to bring your outdoor vision to life.

Pros and Cons of Selecting a Landscape Design Company

Factors to Consider Pros Cons
Experience and Reputation
  • Proven track record ensures reliable results.
  • Experienced companies can handle complex designs.
  • Reputation reflects consistent quality and customer satisfaction.
  • Highly reputed firms may charge premium rates.
  • Newer companies might not have established portfolios.
Range of Services Offered
  • Comprehensive services simplify the project process.
  • Design-build firms handle everything from concept to installation.
  • Specialists in specific areas (e.g., paving, planting) bring expertise.
  • Generalists may lack expertise in niche areas.
  • Limited service options may require hiring multiple contractors.
Portfolio and Past Projects
  • Viewing past projects helps visualize their style and quality.
  • Offers insights into creativity and attention to detail.
  • Positive testimonials reinforce trustworthiness.
  • Outdated portfolios may not reflect current trends or skills.
  • Some companies may showcase stock images instead of genuine work.
Pricing and Transparency
  • Clear pricing helps with budgeting.
  • Transparent estimates build trust.
  • Competitive rates can offer better value.
  • Low-cost quotes may indicate compromised quality.
  • Hidden fees or unclear contracts can lead to disputes.
Customer Support and Communication
  • Good communication ensures your vision is understood.
  • Responsive support addresses concerns promptly.
  • Clear timelines and updates improve project management.
  • Poor communication can result in delays or errors.
  • Lack of updates may cause frustration.
Availability and Scheduling
  • Flexible scheduling accommodates your needs.
  • Companies with availability can start projects sooner.
  • Busy firms may have long wait times.
  • Rushed timelines can compromise quality.

Complete Peace Of Mind

When you have work done on your outdoor space, it isn’t only the products that you use that need to be of a high standard – but the workmen you trust with completing the job.

When you invest in your home or garden, you choose the best materials you can afford (within budget) to bring your dreams to life. Having made all this effort to select the look and finish you want, isn’t it vital that the people you choose to complete work for you should be of an equally high standard? Untrustworthy ‘cowboy’ workmen are a reality within our industry and can cause significant stress, by making promises they can’t keep and delivering substandard, disappointing work.

Furthermore, issues with a landscaping design or garden project may not present themselves for weeks or even months, by which time the cowboy has disappeared into the sunset with your hard earned cash.

Briarlea are proud to be members of the Marshalls Register of Accredited Landscape Contractors and Driveway Installers which is a list of professional and certified workmen who are continuously  vetted and monitored to assure you of our competence and high standards of workmanship.

The high level of workmanship required means all those on the Register must prove themselves in terms of their costs, the guarantees they offer on work completed and their professional methods.

Are you ready to start your project?

Get in Touch with our experts today

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