Ecodesign
Designing in harmony with nature involves the planning of ecosystems that will provide sustainable land use with the minimum of maintenance and long-term management. Simultaneously it also takes into account how geology and soil conditions, wildlife habitats, vegetation, landform, climate and water affect the site. The aim is to establish the basis elements of a system - and then let nature do the rest.
If the design principles have been correctly applied with regard to the individual characteristics of a site, then a relationship between trees, plants, animal and microbiological life will be achieved which is both stable and, ultimately, self-sustaining.
Trees are a vital part of the ecosystem. They provide a favourable microclimate for other plant life; they are important for water control, cycling nutrients and enriching topsoil with their leaf fall, whilst providing a habitat for wildlife and essential micro-organisms. They also alleviate the problems of pollution and help to counteract the greenhouse effect by removing carbon dioxide from the air. Trees are much more effective when used in mass such as copses, spinneys and woodlands which then become major design elements in the landscape.
Natural landscapes can be designed to integrate with the surrounding land use and provide the required amenities for the owner and the local community. Properly planned, they can offer an efficient, more easily maintained and far more inspiring and sustainable alternative to the many acres of mundane landscapes seen today.
Land Management
Many people are now buying country properties with the aim of embracing green issues to be as self sufficient as possible. A Land Management Plan is essential to clarify your aims and objectives, check that your development projects are based on sound decisions and avoid risks of costly and time consuming mistakes which can ruin your expectations. A Land Management Plan is not just a drawing but a document that assess your site as it is today and sets out how best to reach your future goals.
Benefits
A Land Management Plan will:
- Identify appropriate areas for your design elements
- Ensure features are utilised in harmony with nature
- Access renewable energy as appropriate
- Support grant applications
- Ensure conservation & enhancement of natural resources
- Consider visual and aesthetic elements
- Set out a logical & budgeted action programme
Natural Swimming Pools
Private
Many owners state that having a natural swimming pool "has enriched our lives and while you are separated from the plants you still feel surrounded by them when you swim". All the pools are a joy to see and pure bliss in which to swim. In addition they provide considerable health benefits as they contain no chemicals, especially chlorine.
Michael has studied the various systems undertaken by the main companies in Europe for private and public natural swimming pools. This enables him to design projects that are funtional, cost effective and aesthetically pleasing.
Existing conventional swimming pools can be converted to natural ones. Michael's design service provides you with all the necessary drawings for your natural swimming pool, which can be used for obtaining cost estimates from specialist contractors or for you to undertake the work yourself.
Public
Throughout Europe there are numerous public natural swimming pools that provide people with the opportunity to bathe, swim and play in natural water. At the same time careful planning and design retains the beauty of the area as this ensures a harmonious relationship between landform, water and trees - the three major elements of a beautiful landscape.
There is no doubt that swimming provides considerable health benefits, especially in chemical free water, as well as all the social relationships and recreational opportunities that can accrue. Having an overall design prepared for the pool and the immediate surroundings, ensures that it is part of the garden or landscape and that it is aesthetically pleasing at all times of the year.
Residential Gardens
Gardens have always provided a sanctuary in which to escape from the harsh and dangerous environment outside to a place of seclusion, relaxation and recreation. Planning the space in the garden for all the activities is just as important as planning the interior space of the home.
A common problem with a garden is deciding where to start but to overcome any concerns of the owners my design service will help them to have a bold, romantic and sustainable garden they have always wanted and be proud to own.
Michael's designs can:
- Save you time and avoid costly mistakes
- Use your garden to its full potential
- Create a pleasant place for all the family
- Increase the value of your property
- Phased work according to budget
- Built to your satisfaction
Commercial Gardens
The grounds around your buildings be it offices, hotels, restaurants, pubs, etc, are extremely valuable yet often their full potential is never realised. Seen through the eyes of clients and customers (and even the staff!) some premises appear disappointing and uninspiring. A well designed external space is both an asset in creating the right image and potential source of income for many businesses.
Michael has a wealth of experience both in this country and abroad of creating gardens and landscapes that are not only bold beautiful and functional but are also designed in harmony with nature.
