The book Wild City is now available from Watkins Publishing • Preorder here •
Steve Williams Landscapes is a London based garden design practice creating gardens rooted in nature and designed for modern life.
Garden design that reconnects you with nature
We work with creatively minded homeowners who want more than just a beautiful garden. They want somewhere that feels alive, supports nature and becomes a part of everyday life.
Contemporary urban gardens
Gardens that sit comfortably alongside contemporary architecture, balancing strong structure with naturalistic planting.
Food forests
Layered, productive gardens where fruit, herbs, and perennial crops are part of the wild, not separate from it.
Reclaimed and reused materials
Working with what’s already there, reusing walls, surfaces, and materials to add character, reduce waste, and root each garden to its surroundings.
Innovation
Looking beyond conventional solutions to create gardens with character and a strong sense of place.
The best gardens never stand still
They change through the seasons, welcome wildlife and grow richer year after year.
Strong structure gives a garden clarity.
Layered planting gives it life
The key is intention rather than abandonment.
We don't believe wildness needs to be controlled, sustainability should come at the expense of beauty, or that every urban garden has to follow the same formula.
Featured
Projects
Testimonials
A clear process from idea to reality
Step 1:
Descover
Every project begins with a conversation and on-site workshop. Together we'll explore how you live, what your garden could become, and establish a clear direction before the design begins.
Step 2:
DesigN
Your ideas are developed into a complete garden design, supported by detailed drawings and 3D visuals so you can see exactly how your garden will look and feel before work begins.
Step 3:
Realise
We remain involved throughout the build, workign closely with contractors to ensure the finished garden reflects the original vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ecological garden design?
Ecological garden design is the practice of creating gardens that support biodiversity, soil health and long-term environmental resilience from the ground up. At Steve Williams Landscapes, this means layered naturalistic planting design, reduced reliance on chemical inputs, and thoughtful material choices that work with existing site conditions rather than against them. The goal is not just visual impact in year one, but a landscape that improves over 5, 10 and 20 years. (See our Approach page for more on structured wildness.)
Do I need to know anything about gardening to work with you?
You don’t need prior gardening knowledge to work with Steve Williams Landscapes. Most clients are design concious but not horticultural experts, and the process is structured to guide you clearly through each stage. You’ll receive one fully resolved concept supported by 3D visualisation, so decisions are based on clarity rather than guesswork. Ongoing aftercare guidance ensures you feel confident rather than overwhelmed once the garden is complete.
Do I need to have a lawn in an urban garden?
No, a lawn is optional, not essential, in urban garden design. Many of our projects replace traditional lawns with layered perennial planting, gravel gardens or structured terraces that offer greater biodiversity and lower long-term maintenance. Where a lawn is retained, it is intentional and proportionate, not default. The decision is always driven by how you want to use the space.
Can we keep existing features like old walls or concrete?
Yes, existing walls, brickwork and even concrete are often retained and reinterpreted. Ecological garden design does not begin with erasure; it begins with understanding what’s already there. Keeping structural elements can reduce waste, preserve character and strengthen the architectural integrity of the garden. Many featured projects show how retained materials add depth rather than compromise.
How does the design process work from start to finish?
The design process follows a series of clear stages and usually unfolds over a number of months. It begins with an initial call and a paid on-site workshop. From there, you’ll receive a comprehensive ecological garden design supported by detailed drawings and 3D visuals. The design is then developed technically and coordinated with contractors before the build begins.
How long does a typical project take?
Every project is different. Some gardens come together quickly in a matter of weeks, while others develop over a longer period depending on scale, complexity and the pace that works best for you. What matters most is allowing enough time for thoughtful design, careful construction, and planting at the right moment for long-term success.
I don’t know any reliable landscapers, how is that handled?
You don’t need to source contractors yourself. Steve Williams Landscapes works with experienced landscaping teams who are open to innovative ecological garden design and high-quality execution. Detailed technical drawings and site meetings ensure the design intent is protected throughout the build. This structured oversight significantly reduces risk and uncertainty.
How disruptive is the construction phase?
Yes, there’s disruption, but it’s temporary and carefully managed. Clients are prepared ahead of time for this messy stage. It’s often the trickiest visually, but also the most transformative. Keeping communication clear helps ease any anxiety along the way.
How much does a comprehensive ecological garden design cost?
A comprehensive ecological garden design typically requires a significant five-figure to low six-figure construction budgets, depending on scale and materials. Smaller urban garden design projects may begin around the mid-five-figure range, while architecturally complex sites can exceed six figures. Design fees are structured separately and discussed transparently at the enquiry stage. Clear budget alignment happens early to protect everyone’s time.
Who is Steve Williams Landscapes best suited for?
Steve Williams Landscapes is best suited to creatively engaged homeowners who value artistry and ecological integrity equally. Most clients are based in London and the South of England, but we work throughout the UK and abroad. If you’re seeking garden design that feels bold, immersive and grounded in naturalistic planting design, our approach will resonate. You can see if we’d be a good fit by heading to the Enquiry page and booking a Consultation.
