Ashley James is an Australian Garden Designer, Maker & Garden Writer.

A visionary garden designer whose work harmoniously blends the timeless principles of the Arts and Crafts movement with a contemporary twist. With a deep appreciation for nature and craftsmanship, he creates gardens that are not only visually stunning but also deeply connected to their surroundings.

Ashleys gardens are characterised by a thoughtful layout that encourages exploration and interaction, with meandering pathways, inviting seating areas, and hidden nooks that reveal surprises at every turn. Colour and texture play a crucial role in his designs, with a focus on layering different plant species to create a tapestry of blooms and foliage that change with the seasons.

Ashley believes that a garden should be a reflection of its owner’s personality and lifestyle. By collaborating closely with clients, he ensures that each design is uniquely tailored to suit individual tastes and needs, resulting in outdoor spaces that are both functional and enchanting.

Our Design Studio is based in The Victorian Yarra Valley, but Ashley works on design projects all over Australia.

A small studio of designers, makers and gardeners, Ashley and his team offer a personal and warm informal approach to make the process of creating your garden as enjoyable and as smooth as possible. Ashley offers a complete, end to end garden design service and works hands on with his team of trusted and skilled crafts and tradesmen along with a wide range of trusted suppliers to create individual and timeless gardens. Ashley will guide your project every step of the way, from the initial consultation and garden design, through to construction, project management and ongoing maintenance.

The Process

The process of creating your custom garden starts with an on-site meeting, where Ashley carefully assesses the current site conditions and gets a clear understanding of your vision and expectations for the project. Ashley encourages you to share your ideas and requirements, so he can create a tailored plan that meets your needs. During this meeting, Ashley will also provide practical advice and valuable information to guide you through the process. Once this initial consultation is complete, Ashley will prepare a Design Fee Proposal, which outlines the project brief and scope.
Please note that a fee of $500 will be charged for this preliminary consultation, and an additional travel fee may be incurred based on your location.
Concept Design
The concept design illustrates the envisioned layout, materials, and planting palette for your garden. The concept design includes plans and views that effectively communicate the design outcome. It is a dynamic and collaborative document that evolves through close consultation with you, the client. Once the design is approved and finalised, Ashley will move forward with the Documentation.
Documentation
Produced by Ashley after the concept design has been agreed, The Documentation encompasses all the necessary information required for installing your garden. This comprehensive document includes a master plan, planting plan, planting schedule, lighting plan, as well as detailed specifications and all relevant details to install your garden.
Design Packages start from $8,000
Once your garden design is complete a project estimation can be prepared and if accepted, Ashley will schedule an approximate start date for the construction of your garden. Ashley and his team work with their network of trusted trades and licensed practitioners to bring your garden to life. A hands-on designer and skilled craftsman Ashleys knowledge in horticulture and landscaping ensure that the garden is executed in accordance with his design vision.
A passionate gardener Ashley understands that gardens are living and evolving works of art designed to be developed through the skill of horticulture with seasonal pruning, planning and management.
Ashley and his team work on dedicated gardens to ensure they develop and mature to their full potential.