Why Start With Design?
Because every great landscape begins with a clear concept — it’s the foundation that makes construction smoother, more efficient, and more cohesive.
At Sherlock Landscaping, we believe design is the foundation of every successful outdoor project. It’s not about technical drawings or rigid plans — it’s about understanding how you want to live outside and shaping spaces that make that possible.
Maybe you’re dreaming of a sunny patio for family barbecues, planting beds that burst with colour through the seasons, or retaining walls that turn a steep section into a usable garden. Whatever your vision, landscape design in Nelson is where transformation begins — balancing practicality, creativity, and the local environment to make it all work seamlessly.
A Collaborative Approach — Not a One-Off Plan
When you work with Sherlock Landscaping, design isn’t a one-time step at the beginning — it’s an ongoing conversation.
We start with a design consultation on site, talking through ideas and exploring how your space can be shaped around the way you live. For some projects, we’ll sketch simple hand-drawn concepts to help visualise layout and flow — but the real value is in the process itself.
Our approach is flexible and hands-on, allowing creativity and practicality to evolve together. As builders first, we design with the end construction in mind — every wall, deck, or patio is designed to perform as well as it looks. As the project unfolds, we refine and adapt in real time, ensuring your outdoor space feels cohesive, functional, and made for you.
What We Consider in Every Design
Flow & Function
The best outdoor spaces feel natural and easy to move through. We consider how you’ll connect between your house, deck, patio, and garden — aligning paths, steps, and levels so your landscape feels effortless to use.
Levels & Heights
Nelson and Tasman properties often come with slopes or uneven ground. Getting levels right early prevents drainage issues and improves accessibility.
👉 Read more: The Importance of Setting Heights in Landscaping Projects
Materials That Last
We choose materials that can handle Nelson’s climate — from hardwood decking and paved patios to, pergolas, timber fencing and retaining walls. Each recommendation balances durability, appearance, and practicality.
Planting With Purpose
Planting shapes the feel of your garden. We design with a mix of trees, shrubs, and ground covers that thrive locally — softening structures, adding privacy, and bringing colour through the seasons.
Low-Maintenance Options
Prefer a tidy, evergreen finish? We can integrate artificial grass for year-round greenery without the upkeep — ideal for family spaces, rentals, or modern minimalist designs.
Why This Approach Works
Jumping straight into construction without a shared concept often leads to mid-project changes and extra costs.
By starting with conversation and collaboration, you’ll understand what’s coming, how it fits together, and what it will take to achieve it.
As the build progresses, we stay flexible — refining ideas as your landscape takes shape.
We also work on a transparent charge-up basis, with regular invoicing, so you only pay for the time and materials used — no guesswork, no hidden extras.
Real Value for Your Home
A well-designed landscape adds far more than curb appeal — it adds liveability.
Decks and patios extend your living space. Fences and retaining walls bring structure and privacy. Thoughtful planting connects everything together, while lighting and paths make it practical year-round.
Done right, your outdoor area becomes a natural extension of your home — a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the best of Nelson’s outdoor lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you create design drawings or sketches?
We focus on practical, concept-based design. For some projects, we’ll provide hand-drawn sketches to help visualise ideas, but not every project requires one.
How is your design process different from other landscapers?
We don’t hand over a fixed plan and walk away. Our process is collaborative and flexible, evolving with you as the project progresses — ensuring your landscape fits both your lifestyle and your site.
What features can be included in the design?
We specialise in decks, patios, pergolas, fences, retaining walls, and pathways — along with planting layouts, real lawns or artificial grass for low-maintenance spaces.
Do I need council consent for my project?
If your deck or retaining wall exceeds local height limits (typically 1.5 m), you may need consent. We’ll let you know.
How much does landscape design cost?
Costs vary depending on your site and scope. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your ideas and get a feel for your space before any work begins. From there, we work on a charge-up basis with clear estimates and transparent invoicing — so you always know where you stand, with no hidden surprises.
Do you handle the build too?
Yes — Sherlock Landscaping manages the full process, from concept through to completion. If your property needs clearing first, our Garden “Huck Out” service is a great starting point.
What’s the First Step Toward Your New Landscape?
Your property deserves more than a patch of grass.
With landscape design expertise across Nelson, Richmond, and Tasman, Sherlock Landscaping can help you create an outdoor space that’s practical, beautiful, and built to last.
📞 Call 021 121 1006 to book your free landscape design consultation today,
or visit sherlocklandscaping.co.nz to explore our work.
