Services
Garden Design
Every project begins with listening — and with the relationship between fixed forms and empty spaces, soil and plants, light and silence. A garden is a balance of relationships: they are welcomed, nurtured, and allowed to transform.
The conceptual phase starts with sketches, which define the identity, mood, and structure of the space. From there, the process moves into preliminary studies — surveys and 3D models — to turn the idea into a technical, tangible, and achievable plan. It all culminates in detailed construction drawings that guide those who will bring the garden to life.
Plant selection is a fundamental part of the design. For years, I’ve studied the natural alliances between plants, observing Mediterranean garrigue and maquis ecosystems. This allows me to create authentic and sustainable dry gardens that thrive with minimal irrigation and maintenance, while respecting the natural balance and enhancing local biodiversity.
This approach — combining technical precision with a deep sensitivity to place — leads me to connect with genuine people. In this way, my work becomes more than just a profession: it becomes a shared, meaningful experience.
From Design to Ground
When a garden begins to take shape on site, every practical decision carries real weight.
At this point, it’s no longer just about ideas — it’s about soil, roots, proportions, light, and materials. It’s a living, complex phase of the process, and I approach it with attention, presence, and care.
In low-maintenance Mediterranean gardens, certain choices are especially crucial: the right season for planting, the quality of the root system, the depth of the pots, the type of soil — which sometimes even needs to be depleted to ensure better water resilience.
These are technical details, but they make all the difference between a garden that constantly depends on human care, and one that becomes self-sufficient by its second year.
On site, I observe, coordinate, ask questions, and adjust when needed. I don’t work alone — I collaborate closely with the skilled workers, whose hands-on knowledge is built through experience and action. That dialogue is an essential part of the project: it enriches me, guides me, and teaches me. I deeply value mutual respect in the field.
To supervise a garden’s construction is also to protect its vision — to make sure it doesn’t lose its voice in the process of becoming real. A garden can be technically correct, and still feel “silent.”
My role is to accompany it so it becomes a landscape that speaks something true — and continues to speak over time.
Cooperation and Assistance
I like to think that my work isn’t limited to designing gardens, but can also become a meeting point — between professionals, schools, nurseries, and curious minds.
This section was created to open spaces for dialogue. Together, we can build new ways of thinking and speaking about the Mediterranean garden — through conferences, workshops, educational programs, or field research.
We can share the importance of sustainable green spaces, the beauty of wild plants, and the value of resilient landscapes.
I’m always open to collaborating with those who have a project, a question, or a vision to explore — whether it’s a nursery interested in dry gardens, a technical studio, a school, or a cultural foundation.
I love working alongside other perspectives, building bridges between theory and practice, ethics and beauty.
Sometimes, all it takes is a shared spark to bring a new idea to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Isn’t garden design just about choosing some nice plants that go well together?
A well-designed Mediterranean garden isn’t just decorative – it’s a living, self-sustaining ecosystem. It’s built to withstand drought and frost, and it evolves over time. Every decision I make — plant species and varieties, placement, soil preparation, root system quality, and care during the establishment period — must ensure long-term functionality, sustainability, beauty, and low maintenance (with only emergency watering) even five years down the line.
Why should I invest in a landscape design?
A thoughtful landscape design goes far beyond aesthetics. It enhances the livability of outdoor spaces, improves soil quality, increases property value, promotes wellbeing, and, with proper care, can thrive for years. It’s not an expense — it’s an investment that grows over time, just like the plants themselves.
What does the initial site visit include? And what doesn’t it include?
The first visit is an introductory meeting, free of charge within a 30 km radius of my studio (currently based in Mascali).
It’s a chance to see the space in person, understand the client’s needs, and assess the scope of the work.
At this stage, I don’t provide drawings, design proposals, or detailed consultations. Instead, I introduce my working method, design philosophy, and experience. If requested, I can also provide a clear estimate for the preliminary and/or detailed design phases.
What are the steps of your design process, from first meeting to final garden?
My work unfolds in three main phases:
1. Preliminary Study (Feasibility Assessment):
Site visits and surveys
Soil analysis, sun exposure, microclimate evaluation
3D concept design (SketchUp), renderings, cost estimation
Client feedback and revisions
2. Detailed Design (2D Autocad Drawings):
Full technical documentation: layout plans, materials list, irrigation system, maintenance plan, etc.
A comprehensive “ready-to-build” package for the contractor
3. On-site Supervision:
Presence on site to ensure the project is executed faithfully and to plan
How do you determine your pricing?
Preliminary Design: flat rate based on surface area and complexity
Detailed Design: includes all technical documentation for accurate execution
Site Supervision: hourly rate, as it requires presence on site
Consultations & Collaborations: evaluated on a case-by-case basis
My hourly rate for 2025 is €20/hour.
What are the most common misconceptions about your work?
“It’s just about picking pretty plants – how hard can it be?”
“You can just wing it.”
“A garden is an expense, not an investment.”
“The free initial visit includes full design advice.”
That’s why, on my website, I walk through the entire process of what it truly means to design a sustainable, tailor-made Mediterranean garden — step by step.