Tuesday 24 May 2016

Get a Professional Involved - The Designed Landscape.

We have been really fortunate to have worked with some very clever designers from all over Australia in the past few years and I must say the results are amazing as our instagram shows.
Need Inspiration.. ...get yourself to the next garden / Landscape exhibition in your Area. 

The types of professionals available and the differences and specialities can be confusing so I have a great article below with explanations as a guide.
Also have a look through our projects for a style you want to achieve and drop us a line so we can list designers in your area or close by. And yes, we have a great list of professionals we have worked with. Make a start by checking our their web site and social pages, decide on who suits your style and budget before you make contact. Approach them with clear intentions so you get the most out of the exchange, it's hard to please a vague idea so if your computer savvy download a program for sketching your landscape ideas ( or if not draw old school like me )...  keep images, pins or scrapbook your favourite looks to give you a starting point for discussion.

Now find your Landscape professional...

Please see an article below by Tim Daly - Gardening Columnist ,which explains who does what in the landscape world...

When homeowners seek professionals to enhance the quality of their home landscapes, confusion often arises as to what type of landscape professional to use. There are three general categories: landscape architects, landscape designers, and landscape contractors. Each has their own unique specialisation as to the type of work they perform.
Landscape architects are professionals who analyse, plan, design, and manage the stewardship of natural environments, developed areas, and the relationships between the two. Examples of their work include designing public parks, planning residential and commercial sites, designing the layout of new developments, garden design, and historical preservation. Landscape architects have advanced education, professional training and, in most states, have to have a license to practice. Usually they have five years undergraduate studies to get their degrees and frequently have advanced degrees as well. They study engineering, architecture, design and horticulture. The scope of their work is usually larger projects.
Landscape designers are generally more focused on garden design for residential properties. Their services are less involved than landscape architects. Some are self-taught but many have taken courses through colleges or technical schools although there are no there are no educational or experience requirements. Landscape designers are not required to be licensed or certified by the state. They tend to be more knowledgeable on plant material and garden design than landscape architects, who focus on larger scale developments. Many garden centers employ landscape designers who are skilled at consulting with homeowners.
Landscape contractors are businesses that focus on the installation and maintenance of plant materials and hardscaping, such as brick and stone walls, small fountains, paved walkways, and other similar structures. Some companies are quite large while others are small, consisting of only a few people. Persons employed as contractors have varying degrees of education and experience. Landscape designers are often employed contractors. By working with both, you can have a custom-made design for your home landscape and the contractor who will perform the work for you.
Landscape architects, landscape designers and landscape contractors have many differences in regarding the services they offer. You need to see which one would be of greatest help with your home landscaping projects. 

Timothy Daly is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent with Gwinnett County Cooperative  tdaly@uga.edu

Fencing - Rules and Regs

We are often asked about various fencing rules around the country and while we try to stay informed we like to refer you back to your local council or certifier to be sure.

I have provided some helpful links and info to get you started...

NSW - http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/Factsheet_print/Consumers/Product_and_service_safety/Pool_safety/_Pool_fencing_requirements.pdf

QLD - http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/Factsheet_print/Consumers/Product_and_service_safety/Pool_safety/_Pool_fencing_requirements.pdf

VIC - http://www.vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/19386/Swimming-pools,-spas-and-their-safety-barriers.pdf

WA - https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/sites/default/files/atoms/files/dp1057_rules_for_pools_and_spas_a4_booklet_aug_2014_web.pdf

SA - http://www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au/webdata/resources/files/Swimming_Pool_Safety_Barrier_Information_Sheet.pdf

Another fantastic site for all pool, equipment and safety info is your states SPASA site.

Fact sheets on all topics are readily available and extra info is just a phone call away.
The Swimming Pool and Spa Association are there to support the industry and consumers alike and are extremely helpful  .....attend the next SPASA Pool and Spa Show in your area.

Remember, just because we need fencing doesn't mean we have to be boring....search through our web , facebook and pinterest pages and see how our creative customers and designers have enhanced their space with interesting fencing solutions.....