Transforming gardens into a lush retreat that feels inviting in every season.
The heart of a thriving garden: Softscaping
At Esme, we believe that the best gardens are built on balance, where structure meets softness, and nature complements design. Our softscaping services in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Camberley, London & surrounding areas are designed to transform outdoor spaces into living landscapes that feel organic, vibrant and timeless.
From expertly layered planting schemes and rich seasonal colour to pristine lawns and textured borders, our team brings together creativity, horticultural knowledge and craftsmanship to design outdoor environments that thrive year after year.
Whether you’re refreshing a small garden, completing a large landscape renovation or integrating softscaping with hardscaping, our bespoke approach ensures every garden feels cohesive and full of life.
What Is Softscaping?
Softscaping is the living, growing element of landscape design, the plants, lawns, soil, and textures that bring a garden to life. It complements hardscaping features like paving, decking and walls, creating a balance between structure and nature.
At Esme, we specialise in complete softscaping services in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Camberley and Finchampstead, delivering designs that are both visually stunning and sustainable. Every element is thoughtfully considered, from the colour of the foliage to the way light hits the garden at different times of day.
Softscaping is not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality. The right plants can improve soil quality, support biodiversity, and enhance privacy while reducing maintenance needs.
Our Approach to Softscaping Design
Every Esme project begins with understanding the space and how you live in it. We believe softscaping should reflect the homeowner’s lifestyle, architecture, and surrounding environment.
Our design process includes:
Site Assessment & Consultation: We begin with a detailed review of the existing landscape, sunlight exposure, soil type and drainage.
Concept Design: We develop a planting and layout concept that aligns with your vision, whether contemporary minimalism or English cottage charm.
Plant Selection & Sourcing: Using trusted local nurseries, we source high-quality plants suited to the local climate for long-term health. If preferred by the clients, we also visit the nurseries together and pick out planting.
Installation: Our experienced landscapers install each element with care, ensuring the garden is set up to thrive.
Aftercare & Maintenance Guidance: We provide aftercare advice or maintenance plans to ensure lasting success.
Planting Design and Installation
Beautiful planting is at the heart of every Esme garden. We specialise in designing layered, textural, and seasonally diverse planting schemes that add depth, movement and colour throughout the year.
From architectural evergreens and ornamental grasses to perennial borders and specimen trees, every plant is chosen with purpose. Our softscaping services ensure that your garden remains balanced both visually and ecologically.
Why Our Planting Designs Work
Tailored to Your Garden’s Conditions: We select plants that suit the light, soil and moisture levels of your specific site.
Structured for Longevity: Each planting scheme combines evergreen structure with seasonal variety for a garden that evolves beautifully.
Designed for Flow: Our planting layouts complement paving, decking and architectural features to create visual harmony.
Lawn Installation and Turfing
A well-laid lawn is the foundation of many outdoor spaces, it softens hard surfaces and invites people to linger.
At Esme Developments, we provide professional lawn installation as part of our softscaping services in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Camberley, London & surrounding areas. Whether you prefer natural turf, low-maintenance artificial grass, or wildflower meadow areas, we deliver expert results with precise grading, soil preparation, and drainage solutions.
We install lawns that are:
Even and Well-Drained: Preventing future issues like patching or water-logging.
Durable and Practical: Designed to handle family use, pets, and foot traffic.
Visually Cohesive: Seamlessly blending with your patios, planting beds and decking.
Seasonal Planting and Colour Schemes
A great garden changes with the seasons. Esme’s planting schemes are designed to bring colour and texture throughout the year, from spring bulbs and summer blooms to evergreen structure and winter interest.
We consider bloom cycles, foliage contrast, and maintenance levels to design spaces that look alive even in the colder months. This balanced approach ensures your garden never feels static.
Our Seasonal Planting Strategy
Spring: Tulips, alliums, hellebores for bright starts.
Summer: Hydrangeas, grasses, and lavenders for volume and fragrance.
Autumn: Acer and sedum to introduce warm tones.
Winter: Evergreens and bark texture for structure.
Why Choose Esme for Softscaping
Our Coverage Areas
Our softscaping and landscaping services are available throughout:
Surrey
Hampshire
Berkshire
London & surrounding areas
If you’re outside these areas, get in touch. We often take on select projects further afield.
Choosing the right team makes all the difference. Esme Developments stands out for its holistic approach, combining design, horticultural expertise, and premium craftsmanship to deliver outdoor spaces that are both functional and beautiful.
Our Clients Choose Us Because We:
Combine over 30 years of experience in landscaping and garden design.
Work with trusted suppliers for premium materials and plants.
Design with both beauty and practicality in mind.
Offer complete landscaping solutions from design to aftercare.
We’re not just creating gardens, we’re crafting environments that evolve, mature, and bring joy for years to come.
Integrating Softscaping with Hardscaping
-
At Esme Developments, our strength lies in combining softscaping and hardscaping seamlessly.
We design landscapes where plants frame patios, pathways flow naturally into lawns, and raised beds complement rendered walls. This integration ensures your outdoor space feels cohesive and intentionally designed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does softscaping cost?
Every project is unique. The cost depends on size, materials, and design detail. Contact us for a free site consultation and tailored quote.
Q: Do you supply the plants and materials?
Yes. We source everything from trusted local nurseries and suppliers to ensure quality and longevity.
Q: Can you work with my existing garden designer?
Absolutely. We often collaborate with garden designers and architects to bring their plans to life.
Q: How long does a softscaping project take?
Project length depends on scope and season. Most residential softscaping projects take between one and four weeks.
Q: Do you provide aftercare or maintenance advice?
Yes. We provide guidance for plant care and can recommend seasonal maintenance services to keep your garden thriving.
Let’s work together.
Ready to bring your outdoor space to life? Our softscaping services in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Camberley, London & surrounding areas combine artistry, expertise, and sustainability to create gardens that feel alive and enduring.
Contact us today to book your consultation and start transforming your garden into a space that grows beautifully with time.