My name is Steve and I set up Black Dog Garden Design because I want to help people create beautiful gardens that they can enjoy for years to come.

Working in gardens was at the heart of my upbringing, whether it was digging the family vegetable patch or constructing a compartmented composting area, but it was only after school that my eyes were opened to a horticultural career.

While studying Classics at Exeter University, I spent my holidays working in a local garden nursery and landscape centre, and much of my free time was filled with drawing and painting. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for planting and design.

Having spent many years working as a Classics teacher, I began studying for RHS certificates and a Professional Postgraduate Diploma in Garden Design at the British Academy of Garden Design. Success has enabled me to build a second career by setting up Black Dog Garden Design.

A naturally creative and artistic person, I love and embrace the challenge of designing and building gardens. With a voracious appetite for learning, I am continually expanding my knowledge of plants, keeping in touch with the garden industry and the very latest design trends.

I am not driven by any particular garden style, enjoying the sleek lines of contemporary designs as much as the billowing meanders of traditional cottage gardens. Excited by working with nature and wildlife, I am particularly keen to create unique spaces that have subtle symbolism, meaning and reflect the owner’s personality and character.

By providing a professional, friendly and imaginative design service, my aim is to inspire you to realise your vision and create a garden that you will enjoy and cherish.If you would like to discuss your requirements, just get in touch. I look forward to working with you.

Steve and Black Dog Garden Design