Improving my content
- contact64001
- Oct 15, 2024
- 2 min read
The most satisfying element of the garden design process is seeing the space take shape in real life.
However, second to that, is the moment when the client sees the design and likes it. It is so lovely to know that they have been able to see their brief laid out for them in a visual format. As a designer, this is not only flattering on a personal level, but it is also a confirmation that I have understood their needs as a customer.
Sometimes the physical representation of their needs is achieved through a simple sketch, or a mood board, but in reality, the full realisation doesn't happen until they see the final design or masterplan. For this reason, I am always looking for better ways to present these designs to them.
Not all designers love to draw. Personally, I get a real satisfaction from it, but my favourite medium is a computer generated image. Not only because it is easier to erase mistakes and start afresh without pesky smudges and crumpled paper, but also for the challenges that it creates. At present I am using SketchUp pro which is a lovely piece of software to create fast designs to a very good standard. One of the challenges when using the software, as a garden designer, is that is doesn't have a limitless library of plant elements, so I have to use research and my own knowledge to find similar looking plants to represent other species'. This is extremely useful during the part of the design where I have to devise planting plans for clients who have a vague idea of what they want, but perhaps they don't quite have the horticultural knowledge to express it.
The end product of SketchUP can look really professional, but as a perfectionist, I am always looking to improve my content. At the moment, I am experimenting with various AI and rendering software to upgrade my output from "professional," to exceptional.
Below is an image of a design from SketchUP without any treatment:
And here is my first attempt using a new piece of rendering software:
This is not the end of my journey with this software, but I am really excited to see where it takes me. At the moment I am so pleased with the result. As always, I am dedicated to improving my product and I hope this is something that my clients appreciate as well.