A spectacular project in the making
Photo Credit: © Dirk Lindner
Project Details
Landscape Architect: Brita Schoenaich, Bradley-Hole Schoenaich Landscape (BHSLA)
Project Management and Installation: Alaster Anderson
Planting completed: In progress
The PROJECT
“Their plantsmen are second to none and have a great eye for detail. They are always a pleasure to deal with”
This high-budget and complicated landscape project on the edge of London is an excellent example of how Alaster Anderson’s project management expertise can streamline the most daunting of installations. It has been a success thanks to the very respectful relationship we have developed over many years with landscape architects BHSLA, and the way that our understanding of our different skillsets leads to the creation of really outstanding gardens.
In this case BHSLA masterminded the design work from concept to practical details, from the overall look of the garden to specifics of the fencing, paving and garden buildings. We are carrying out the project management and installation of the planting and landscape to bring their stunning vision to life.
THE CHALLENGE
This project has been running for three years with multiple contractors and consultants involved, from the architects who have designed the house to BHSLA, structural and drainage engineers, electrical service engineers and security. There are a plethora of different advisors because the client wants to create a really fantastic, unique space.
“Alaster understands the aesthetics of how to deliver the kind of garden I am looking for – organic, inspiring and surprising.”
Installation of the planting and landscaping is therefore complicated:
A variety of cabling, electrics and pipework are being run in and around the garden
Every aspect has to be considered and timetabled carefully
Precise sequencing and practical understanding are needed of all the plans drawn up for the project.
OUR EXPERTISE
Our many years of practical experience is pivotal to such projects. We have expertise on the ground and the ability to speedily identify potential problems in advance. This means we can make sure counter-measures are in place ahead of time when we programme the work.
1. An in-depth approach
Our first step is to review all the plans for the external space to make sure they are feasible and will not cause problems during installation.
In this project, the soil is clay and very heavy so it does not drain easily. Drainage is therefore important to avoid waterlogging rootballs which could affect plant health and even cause plant failure. As drainage levels were not just a matter for the garden but had to interconnect with the drainage work all around the house, we discussed and agreed a holistic approach with all involved.
With cables and pipes running throughout a garden, a careful approach is required whenever we need to install larger plants. This is where an in-depth look at the details of a plan is so important so we can make sure cabling and pipes are discreet and correctly positioned.
2. Overcoming space limitations
When space is limited we work in stages. For example, on this project we will be installing 24 fully established pleached trees around the perimeter of the property.
Because our programme of work does not involve installing all these large specimens at once, we have brought them across from Belgium and are storing them in our own nursery. We then organise lorry shipments to take them in batches to the site as they are needed for planting.
We have the flexibility and ability to understand and manage material handling in tight spaces and bring specimens in on demand.
3. Exceptional communication skills
“I believe it is important to work with people who you like and who instil confidence in you”
Over many years working with Spink Property we have collaborated on their highly complex projects that are executed with minute attention to detail. This has allowed us to develop our own skills to quickly and efficiently deliver projects on time. We are experienced in working with multiple consultants and specialist contractors, as well as with large amounts of material coming onto a site and waste being removed. We work to try and eliminate the environmental impact of the project by avoiding over ordering and wastage as well as recycling materials wherever possible.
Florent Durieux, our Operations Director, has fantastic communication skills and is superb at managing jobs on the ground. He engages brilliantly with consultants and contractors, taking them in the same direction on the project journey without confrontation. They all love his energy and enthusiasm.
Our deep understanding of how every contractor needs to be able to do their job in a timely and efficient manner to make money and delight their clients means we work as a team, coordinating everything we are doing so the project runs smoothly. The upshot is wonderful landscapes.
THE RESULT
Our expertise avoids downtime, increases efficiency, prevents delays and over-runs and eliminates the risk of excess costs. We deliver a project effectively, on time and with a smile.
“With so many factors involved you need project management skills as well as attention to detail. Alaster’s team does that with good humour and trust, making the process enjoyable”
The result in this case will be a truly spectacular garden.
To find out more, or to speak to us about a project, please contact us on 0207 305 7183 or contact us via the website.
