Testimonials | Landscape and garden design

Garden Designer - Siobán Thomas

Landscape and Garden Designer – Siobán Thomas

”A pleasure to have worked with Leaf & Acre to realise our dreams to transform the three parts of our garden to compliment the recent house redevelopment. Sioban interpreted our brief and imagined a scheme to incorporate elements of Japanese Gardens both through the choice of hard landscaping and planting. We were most impressed with her skills to produce detailed technical construction drawings which made it straightforward for the chosen Landscaping Contractor to interpret.  Megumi Bryan and Tony Jakeman

We had a bad experience with a previous garden contractor, so chose carefully when it came time to having our garden redesigned. The level of detail in Sioban’s work, from the extensive garden survey, the technical drawings, setting out plan, paving layout, mood boards and planting plans was exceptional. Sioban took on board our lifestyle, budget and maintenance requirements and came up with a bespoke garden design tailored to our needs. Incredibly professional, from her clear, prompt communication to her level of detail in all aspects of the work. Sioban had qualified, experienced professionals to recommend for any areas of the garden installation that was outside her remit.”  Marilyn Kendall and Brian Grant-Davie 

”We are very happy with what Sioban achieved with the strip of garden behind our North London terraced house. As for the process, we had enjoyable discussions about the new design, during which she made many imaginative suggestions which we accepted immediately, but was also very careful to establish what we liked, and, for example, to agree which old acquaintances amongst our plants were either to be left, or to be moved to new positions. She then carefully oversaw all the work, from the first steps to the ordering of plants, and their planting. It was obvious throughout that the contractors respected her professionalism, and were committed to achieving her high standards. The end result is delightful. We do not hesitate in recommending Leaf and Acre. Philip and Katie Thonemann

”And just to say that we are thrilled with all of the care and expertise that you have given our garden. You’ve provided such a comprehensive service throughout and you must come back and see the fruits of your design and labours next year! Thank you so much. Clare Thompson and Abigail Young

” I want to tell you how over the moon we are with our beautiful garden. We get so many compliments. We are thoroughly enjoying your amazing design and it’s really coming into its own. ” Victor and Louise Garcia

“Sioban met our design brief perfectly for the soft and hard landscaping including a fine water feature. The integrity and hard work she bought to the assignment was outstanding.  We highly recommend her.” Mr and Mrs B. Lacey

“Sioban really listened to what I wanted from my garden, and her design has transformed a very structured and artificial garden into a garden that is bursting with life and colour. Already in early spring all the plants are growing really well and the garden is full of wildlife. Sioban has achieved in a single season what  would have taken me many years and a huge amount of time and money to achieve through my own efforts. Finding a good landscaper to do the work and agreeing the scope of work would have been a really time-consuming process so it was brilliant to be able to pass everything on to Sioban, knowing that she would consider every element of the project in detail, and that I could 100% trust anyone recommended by her. ” Joanne Blank

“Sioban took on the challenge of windswept seaside location, an eight foot drop from top to bottom, an irregular shape as well as the requirement to be easy to maintain.   Sioban worked closely with us and over a series of meetings came up with a design and detailed drawings that gave us comfort in going ahead with changes such as different screens and seating areas.  The attention to detail was also evident in the choice and sourcing of plants – she and husband, Trevor, were helpful with the actual planting so that the final layout took account of the slight variations necessary for a garden that as one visitor described ‘invites you in’.” Mary Elder

“Siobán has transformed  our typical long, narrow North London garden into something altogether more beautiful. From taking time to understand our likes and dislikes, to sourcing a landscape gardener and through to the final planting she was professional, trustworthy and approachable. She helped shape our ideas into a coherent design and created a selection of colours and textures that will bring us delight in throughout the year. She’s a great communicator and kept us updated throughout the project, supplying detailed drawings, plant lists and specifications. We love our new garden and can’t wait to see it in full bloom next spring and summer. ” Alice Lemaitre and Julia Parnaby

“We have been delighted by the service we have received from Leaf and Acre from our initial contact to the completion of the project. Sioban has shown exemplary care and attention to all aspects of the project. Sioban was sympathetic and creative in her response to our ideas and gently nudged us to a better understanding of how to develop our small garden into an extension of our home into the outside whilst providing a haven for wild life, a retreat, an opportunity to grow food and herbs and the potential for a retirement project when that times comes. The plans we received in advance of planting were thorough, informed and reflected her careful survey of the site. Sioban supervised the tendering process and helped us to find an excellent landscape gardener. At our request, she project managed the construction work and has carried out all of the planting.” Mary Short and David Dyke

“On a personal note I would like to express my sincere thanks for being so truly professional. The whole process has been a dream. My days are busy and without your creativity and efficiency this garden that we will enjoy would have never come together.” Franca Reynolds